After spending a week in Bangalore, my preconceived notions of Hinduism are definitely in question.  Since the Hindu texts are not available to the average Indian and since I was raised in a home that does not emphasize one specific religion, I have always been skeptical of what others believe are the fundamental principles of Hinduism.  From the visits with the religious scholars at the monastery, I hoped to finally gain a firsthand account of the scriptures.  While the monks did provide us with some insight on how to approach modern ethical and social issues using examples from the Vedas, ultimately, we are still interpreting the scriptures based on the assumption that God and human are separate according to this branch of Hinduism.  If Hinduism does not agree on the relation of man to God or his position in the universe, then it is possible for two Hindus to have completely different perspectives/religions?  Other popular religions also face similar problems with the interpretation of their sacred texts.  Maybe that is why I (and others) have an issue with identifying with one religion.  If there is so much flexibility (or maybe it’s just ignorance) in what one who identifies with one religion may choose to believe or prescribe to, then why label one’s beliefs?

On a lighter note, my favorite part about Bangalore:  the auto rickshaw rides at night!  Watching the city fly by with the wind blowing through your hair through the enclosed door-less windows is something I will never forget.  When the drivers feel the need to rush and race, instead of closing my eyes and promising to never hop on one of these again, I secretly wish he would drive more recklessly.  Again, the theme of India = nothing like I expected arises once again.  Or maybe I never expected this personal reaction to India.

When asked to explain who I am, instead of listing personal attributes, I prefer to reply simply with the following statement:  I am the daughter of Navin & Mita Patel.  Each source of the culture I current claim to prescribe to is related to my upbringing. 

Education:  Emphasizing the importance of education from the outset, my parents have fostered a home environment of not only learning but also growth by allowing me to freely pursue curiosities.  As a result, I obtained dual undergraduate degrees in liberal arts and the sciences because I value the importance of knowledge. At the risk of sounding cliche-ish – knowledge is power, right?

Extended Family:  While encouraging close relationships with my extended family, my parents actively sought to educate me on how to react to certain personalities I will inevitably encounter throughout my life.  Basically, they helped me understand that each new meeting is an opportunity to learn (again…education).  However, it is important to only extract those qualities I deem “good” from others and consciously make an effort to avoid embodying the “bad” ones once I have recognized them.  For example, from my eldest cousin, I picked up the importance of traveling.  Other values entail  concepts such as accepting differences, serving others selflessly, and loving cautiously.

Friends: With a similar approach, I absorb a part of my culture from friends or acquaintances I make while pursuing an education.  When an opportunity to form a relationship with another presents itself, it would be a waste to not take full advantage.  Even though I would not consider every friend a “best friend,” I value every bond.  Again, each encounter is a chance to learn and teach. 

With the values I acquire from others, I ultimately determine my culture based on what is best for me at the time.