In high school I was a member of the Culture Vultures, a club that revealed to me the indescribable world of opera, ballet, Broadway musicals, and more. I remember my very first live classical concert: Barber’s Adagio for Strings, conducted by Zubin Mehta and performed by the New York Philharmonic.
At one point I recall so distinctly being taken over by the music, being physically transfixed, feeling the reverberations of the instruments from the inside out so that my whole body seemed to ache and sway with the deep sorrow of the melody. Tears fell softly on my cheeks and I knew then that my life had gone through a profound change.
Fast forward a couple of decades later and my concept of culture has exploded and transformed as a direct result of my sometimes wacky, always winding journey, that continues to surprise and “move” me at every turn.
As an executive cultural coach, I evolved to see culture as a way of life; a set of values and belief systems that groups of people share. Sometimes it is reflected in a common preference for music, sometimes an agreed set of social graces, and sometimes dictates what food to eat or clothes to wear including the when, where and how.
Now living in my 6th country, and having been an expat for 25 years, I continue to see culture as a Way of Life. It’s an immersion into interesting experiences that make you look at people, places, and opportunities from new and unique angles. It’s a yearning to feel connected to the world around me as I actively seek out opportunities to explore and discover. Perpetually broadening my horizons while living life to the fullest, wherever in the world those adventures may dwell. While along the way hopefully making a positive impact on the world around me, one person at a time.
I hope you’ll come join me on my journey so we can marvel together at the magnificent wonders of the world.
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