I hate to think of the difference in my life should my father have been disqualified for assistance due to his addiction. I would like to think that he would put his children first, however as a substance abuse counselor I understand the power addiction can bring. Instead of fond memories, and a much greater appreciation for these things, I would be forced to remember pains of hunger, and jealousy. I shudder to think of the impact this would have had on my life because having these memories has helped shape the person I am today. No longer do I live in poverty, and I believe that my upgrade in socioeconomic status comes with a much greater respect. I appreciate my life, and I work hard to ensure that I am able to provide a better life
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I grew up in an area comprised of mostly white individuals, who were openly prejudiced towards anyone who was different. I was able to familiarize myself and interact with people of the Mexican culture as my aunt’s husband emigrated from Mexico. For a short period I become entranced by the beauty of the Mexican culture; the language, and El Dia De Los Muertos (The Day of the Dead). In contrast, I did not meet an African American or person of color until I was 19 and attended college. In college I also learned just how naïve I was when taking a human diversity class. During this class I learned about my inherent prejudices and assumptions. For example, I never once thought that Jesus, Santa Clause, or angels were any other color than white. Realizing this was a large turning point in my life, and highlighted just how much my environment shaped my …show more content…
I work hard to ensure that I do not share the same beliefs I heard as a child, however I can say that I do fall short at times. When in St. Louis I am more likely to pay attention and be on guard if in a predominately African American area. I am ashamed to admit this, however it is one bias I hold. I used to think white privilege was something people made up to complain, however upon learning more I realize that it is rather basic. White privilege is basically certain advantages that are granted more easily to someone who is white versus non-white. For example, non-whites are more likely to be stopped or searched more thoroughly by people of authority than whites. Other examples include merchandize being geared towards whites, higher wages, and beauty standards. I never realized these most basic things, until of course someone informed me and the glass has since been shattered. I wish I could say that I’m upset, but I’m thankful that I do not have to face the same struggles as non-whites. I know that sounds extremely distasteful, but with the childhood I received and my poor self-esteem I’m unsure that I would be strong enough to handle the
I grew up in an area comprised of mostly white individuals, who were openly prejudiced towards anyone who was different. I was able to familiarize myself and interact with people of the Mexican culture as my aunt’s husband emigrated from Mexico. For a short period I become entranced by the beauty of the Mexican culture; the language, and El Dia De Los Muertos (The Day of the Dead). In contrast, I did not meet an African American or person of color until I was 19 and attended college. In college I also learned just how naïve I was when taking a human diversity class. During this class I learned about my inherent prejudices and assumptions. For example, I never once thought that Jesus, Santa Clause, or angels were any other color than white. Realizing this was a large turning point in my life, and highlighted just how much my environment shaped my …show more content…
I work hard to ensure that I do not share the same beliefs I heard as a child, however I can say that I do fall short at times. When in St. Louis I am more likely to pay attention and be on guard if in a predominately African American area. I am ashamed to admit this, however it is one bias I hold. I used to think white privilege was something people made up to complain, however upon learning more I realize that it is rather basic. White privilege is basically certain advantages that are granted more easily to someone who is white versus non-white. For example, non-whites are more likely to be stopped or searched more thoroughly by people of authority than whites. Other examples include merchandize being geared towards whites, higher wages, and beauty standards. I never realized these most basic things, until of course someone informed me and the glass has since been shattered. I wish I could say that I’m upset, but I’m thankful that I do not have to face the same struggles as non-whites. I know that sounds extremely distasteful, but with the childhood I received and my poor self-esteem I’m unsure that I would be strong enough to handle the