My take on humility is that it is a mindset of deep respect for other cultures and an acknowledgment of our own potential biases. It is also about being open to learning from different perspectives and believing in the inherent worth of all people regardless of background or identity. This attitude allows us to engage in meaningful dialogue with people from different backgrounds, experiences, and points of view.
I recently had an experience with cultural humility while working with a refugee family. As the case manager, I was tasked with helping this family settle into their new home country by providing them with resources, guidance, and support. Throughout the process, I worked hard to remain culturally sensitive and aware of my biases so as not to inflict any harm inadvertently.
I quickly realized that cultural humility was key to providing this family with their needed support. I understood their culture and beliefs and actively listened to what they had to say, ensuring that any preconceptions I had were challenged. Being conscious of my own biases allowed me to be more open-minded and understanding of the situation, allowing for a more successful outcome for everyone involved.
In conclusion, the experience taught me the importance of being culturally humble to build meaningful connections with people from diverse backgrounds. Having an attitude of respect and openness is essential when engaging in intercultural exchanges, as it allows us to create better relationships and foster mutual understanding between different cultures. It also allows us to provide equitable access to resources and support for those who need it. Through this experience, I learned that showing humility in our interactions can lead to better outcomes for all.