Values Of Vietnamese Culture

As a first generation American born in a Vietnamese family, my values are heavily influenced by both cultures. Inevitably, as an inhabitant of the United States, I am much more exposed to American culture than to Vietnamese culture. I have learned and assimilated many American values throughout my years in the public school system. Meanwhile, at home, my parents immersed and raised me in their culture. Vietnamese culture is very different from American culture, but not at all far-removed from Chinese culture. One of the most important virtues that my family has taught me is patience. My family stresses the importance of thinking before acting. A simple, yet common, example is the issue of buying on impulse. For my family this is especially …show more content…
Earlier in my life, this has proven to be a slightly difficult task because my family’s values tend to be more conservative than those of most others I encounter. My parents have taught me that it is impossible to change people and, instead, I should try to be observant and listen to others’ opinions while not wavering in my own beliefs. Another important aspect of Vietnamese culture I have learned is the importance of taking care of one’s family and community. For example, traditionally, in Vietnam, a son or daughter would never send his or her elderly parents to a nursing home. Rather, the youngest son or daughter would care for them until they pass. In America’s largely individualistic society, such traditions become even more valuable to families with similar values. These values have allowed me to develop the patience and composure to deal with difficult situations and people. Lately, they have also aided me in understanding others and seeing their problems from their points of view so that I can help them. Vietnamese culture is actually based off of Chinese culture. Therefore, the two have much in common, including many traditions and