From experience I know that integration sounds so nice and easy. In a way, it is too. Yet, in other respects, it can be rather hazy as a concept: What then does it mean? Really?
Does it mean to naturally accept any other concepts of living, seamlessly? To not mind that the ‘language barrier’ is sometimes a handicap? For all concerned?
The more differences there are between one culture and another, the bigger the challenge of doing something about it.
And when people live their whole lives in one small region, with practically no idea of any other models of living than their own, they may feel especially ‘strange with strangers’.
Indeed statistics show that votes for extreme right-wing parties are highest in regions where ‘strangers’ are unknown.
In other words, the adage again is being proven: What you don’t know, as a human being, makes it irritating or even intimidating.
There are some fine explanations from brain research and human patterns of behaviour for such reactions.
But, in effect, what can we really do? Or what advice can we provide to all who are facing this situation for the first time?
Be patient. Know that ‘in calm there lies strength’. How?
The science I mentioned shows that our basic and often passionate emotions such as anger or fear are part of the oldest parts of our brain. When we let them ‘range freely’, we will be less compassionate, and less able or even incapable of clear thinking.
Integration is something to make us richer: In experience, in perspective, in thought, dancing, celebrating, sports, even; or just playing games and making jokes.
A culture that closes itself off, that has also been proven in the humanities, research from social science and anthropology, is doomed.
In Germany all the people from inside Europe and beyond have brought with them so many new ideas, new culinary adventures and taste explosions as well as languages and dances. And they also founded companies and businesses and created jobs. They work with us and among us and often the smile that can bridge the small gap of a misunderstanding can make life a little lighter each time.
Opening hearts and minds – instead of letting fear take over; meeting the others half way, knowing that we have a lot to offer and can learn a lot, makes it easier to – integrate, without losing identity or self-confidence, but earning so much on all levels.