Opportunities

When asked what they appreciate most in America, all interviewees' responds consist the word "opportunity". It was interesting to see how in their home community's, opportunities were not acknowledged due to their familial values, difference between the power of male versus female, and their culture's short-term time orientation. Throughout their lives in America, the endless opportunities gave them the possibility to security, freedom to become individuals and the freedom to reach their personal goals.
Like my interviewees, the American opportunities gave me a reason to dream. If I would have not left Malaysia, I would have completely missed out on the freedom I have to become who I want to be.
In Malaysia, we live in a high context culture. Everything we do is dependent on the norm of the society. Everything is done collectively, and there is no special treatment to individualistic behaviors. There is no room for the free spirited dreamers. So, for the ones who are passionate for more cannot function happily in a high context culture. There is no goal to reach, and no glass to fill. They easily become depressed and lost in the collective society.
America on the other hand is very much a low-context society. The society is dependent on individualistic choices based off of personal ideas and opinions. The freedom of speech and freedom to express grants individuals the opportunity to communicate their ideas with each other no matter how different each idea may be from one another. From household values to academic education, children are taught the skills of "critical thinking" from a very young age. Instead of being spoon fed, individuals in America are taught to make their own decisions and opinions, and come to their own conclusions. They are aware of their capability in achieving goals, no matter where the journey begins, and no matter how low you may be in the class chart. Opportunities are endless; jobs, health care, and education are offered to most of those who are in need of a helping hand. In America, it is essential for people to live out their dreams, as long as they are responsive to the given opportunities.