My Cultural Identity

My Cultural Identity

By: Shanna Lehman

My familyMy Best Friend

The Only Father I knew

My MomMy Grandpa

My German Heritage and My Traditions

This is my Granny. From little on, I remember her talking in German, and teaching me a few things. Go figure, the only saying I remember is kiss my a**. None the less, she inspired me to further my knowledge in the German language.

This is me and my Granny at my Baptism. This gown was worn by her, my grandpa, myself, and as a tradition, my son wore the Baptismal gown. I want to pass on those traditions most near and dear to me, to Grayson.Me and My Sunshine

My son is my everything.SOME of my family members are my greatest supporters. It is with their love and support that I am who I am today. Family traditions consist of holidays, and birthdays. I am starting new traditions with me and GraysonDifferent cultures place different levels of importance upon family. I relate to those with strong family ties, but due to the crazy in my family, I relate to those with strained family relations as well.

Family Values

Honesty is the best policyEveryone is created equallyDo onto others as you wish done upon youIt is better to give, than receiveKarma It is the little things in life that matterMoney cant buy you happinessBlood is thicker than waterDo not judgeBe yourself

Religion

Religion gives me both inner strength and peace.Through God, I have found my strength in overcoming obstacles I face in my life.I believe that a persons spirituality is a critical aspect to consider when counseling; religious or not.There is no right religion; different cultures practice different religions. Through active listening, I am able to gain insight into those differences in clients, and the impact their beliefs have.Politics

Politics is a touchy subject. In my opinion, most forms of government are corrupt to some extent. While I hold my strong political views and opinions, I will be broad in my political views.

I do not consider myself democrat or republican. I feel by labeling myself in such a manner, I am limiting my options and opinions to those of that political party. For example, I vote for the politician whos views/agenda best suite with what I stand for.

I do not push my political views onto others, and I very much appreciate when I receive the same treatment. Nothing gets under my skin more than someone telling me what is right/wrong with my political opinions. In a Nut ShellWell, I have given a lot of my values and beliefs that I believe to have formed whom I am today. While I am aware of areas in which I need to improve upon, I think it is beneficial that I know this. I am not afraid to ask questions of my supervisor , or refer a client if necessary.

In the short time Ive been in my internship, I have seen a vast ore of clients. I have seen things, prior to this, I had only heard of. Relapses, manipulation, and addiction have shown me the less than glamorous aspects of human life.

These experiences have opened my eyes to a lot, and I am grateful for how much I have grown in such a short time. I am looking forward to my future experiences, and how those instances will more shape my opinions/views.