Identity refers to an individual’s expression of their individuality and conception. There are different aspects of one’s individuality; cultural and national identity. One’s identity is their distinctive characteristics belonging to an individual, or one that is shared amongst people of the same cultural backgrounds. Identity refers to the degree of uniqueness observed in different individuals. It is the core nature and essence of one’s life. Individuality also refers to one’s self-esteem, self-image and individuality. It is the totality of an individual’s self-construct and defines the manner with which one construes the self. An individual’s identity is vital because it represents the manner with which an individual views oneself in relation to other people (Lawler 24). There are different aspects and dimensions to one’s identity, but some remain similar despite the environment in which one might find oneself. It is difficult to alter some aspects of an individual’s identity such as their religious and ethnic beliefs.
Coming from Saudi Arabia to the USA, I was afraid of losing my identity. I was scared of conforming to the western beliefs and abandoning those which have been the basis of my life. The two societies differ in the manner with which they interact with one another and beliefs that they hold close. The Saudi Arabian religion and that of the Unites States are quite distinct. Individuals in the Middle East, unlike those in the American society, are quite keen on religion. I had to find a balance and community that share the same beliefs as I did in an effort to remain grounded and stay firm in my beliefs. Five years later, I still am true to my beliefs and religion.
There is an inherent relationship between individuality and the society. It is the society and individuals in it that influence one’s identity and their values and beliefs. The identities of individuals who live in the same society tend to be similar, whereas those of individuals with different societal backgrounds differ on a significant scale. Having lived in the Middle East and visiting the USA for the first time, there were a lot of differences, from the sense and style of dressing and personal values and principles.
In Saudi Arabia, the style of dressing was quite conservative. There were attires that were taboo for both ladies and men, In the USA; however, there is liberalism and freedom in the style of dressing. I still dress in the traditional and conservative sense that I have known all my life, but to fit in with the society, I conform and dress in the fashion of the Americans. It is liberating to note that one can have different opinions yet retain their identity.
I have become more tolerant to other individual’s personalities since setting foot in the USA. I have encountered different people with different personalities that have improved my identity in terms of social interaction. Bach in Saudi Arabia, it was difficult to encounter a person with different beliefs as mine hence my identity and tolerance levels were limited in scope to the people who held the same beliefs as I did. Being in the USA, I have encountered different people with different mindsets as well as personalities. This has increased my understanding of different people and also the manner with which I interact with them in the society.
The Saudi Arabia n and the USA societies are quite different, and I felt overwhelmed the first time I set foot in the United States. There are different components that constitute the identity of the Middle East nationals. One of the major adjustments is inclusive of the fact that in Saudi Arabia, I had a housemaid who performed all my household chores including washing my house and cleaning my clothes. The move to the US was tough on me because I had to make do without the maid. At first it was difficult to manage, but as the days passed, I got used to the changes. I had to be independent and ensure that my chores are completes without any help. This was an improvement to my identity because I have learnt to be more independent and learn to survive on my own. The move to the US has taught me how to survive in a new environment and not be dependent on the very familiar environment to which I was used in my home country.
In retrospect, there are unique and distinct differences in the American and Saudi Arabian cultures. Despite there being differences in the manner with which individuals in the societies conduct their activities, I have remained true to my upbringing. I have beliefs, values and principles that I hold close to me. It is these beliefs that have seen me through these five years in the United States and will continue to guide my stay in this beautiful country. The US society has improved my society and helped me have better people skill. I credit being more open-minded to my move here. Though my identity has changed in some aspects, my beliefs remain deep-rooted.
Works Cited
Lawler, Sthephanie. Identity: Sociological Perspective. New York: Oxford Printing Press, 2008. Print.
