Navigating Personal Values Through Cultural and Generational Lenses

As a 70-year-old queer left-handed Jew living in England, my personal values are a mix of my cultural heritage and personal beliefs, which often differ from the predominant attitudes and behaviors in mainstream America. This unique fusion has provided me with a rich and reflective lens through which to view the world.

Cultural and Personal Identities

Being a Reform Jew has equipped me well to navigate the challenges that arise from my cultural and personal values. Growing up, I was taught to be aware of these challenges and to find ways to adapt while staying true to myself. This education has been incredibly valuable, teaching me the importance of both standing up for my beliefs and staying open to understanding others.

As a “cis-gender homosexually oriented male,” finding a balance between speaking up for my rights and educating others about LGBTQ issues has been crucial. Similarly, seeking win-win solutions in various social and professional contexts has allowed me to create harmonious relationships and productive outcomes. These skills have proven invaluable throughout my life.

Class and Regional Differences

While my cultural background aligns closely with my own upbringing, subtle differences in core values exist due to my middle-class background and working-class career. My parents, schoolteachers with a middle-class perspective, contrast with my own experience in skilled manufacturing. The core values between these backgrounds are starkly different, reflecting the diverse landscape of English society.

Living in East Anglia, a primarily agricultural region situated near London, adds another layer to my cultural identity. Here, we are known for our slow, deep-thinking nature and sometimes wary interactions with strangers, contrasting starkly with the gregarious, touchy-feely Northern English and the quick-thinking Londoners who often view us as slow-witted.

Gender and Marital Status

My personal values are also shaped by my marital status. Having been happily married for over three decades, I have a unique perspective on gender norms and relationships. However, I am still navigating how to validate my understanding of women's experiences, attempting to empathize and find common ground.

Racial Heritage and Workplace Diversity

My work experience has also introduced me to a diverse range of racial backgrounds. Before retiring, I worked with many Polish individuals, who quickly mastered the English language and often shared more similar values with me compared to the Northerners in my region. Racial heritage plays a significant role in shaping one's personal values and interactions.

Generational Differences

Generational differences are evident in the values of my own family. My daughter and son-in-law, both in their 20s, have a distinct set of values that differ significantly from mine and my spouse's. As a secondary school teacher, my daughter's students come from yet another cultural background, further emphasizing the generational divide.

Age plays a crucial role in our values, with each generation likely influenced by the historical and social contexts in which they were raised.

Conclusion: Despite the myriad differences in cultural backgrounds, regional identities, class, gender, and generational values, the common thread remains the individual's personal values. Understanding and respecting these differences can lead to more inclusive and harmonious societies. By embracing our unique identities and finding ways to bridge the gaps, we can foster greater connection and understanding.