Embracing a Universal Identity: My Journey as a Cultural Chameleon
This evening, as I found myself feeling somewhat listless and depressed, I turned to YouTube for solace. Seeking comfort in the familiar, I decided to listen to the music of my Owerri folks, a reminder of my Nigerian roots. As the melodies filled the room, I couldn't help but be transported back to my childhood in Lagos, where the sounds of Fela Kuti's music were a constant presence in my life.
But amidst the rhythmic beats and soulful tunes, another genre of music held a special place in my heart - classical music. It may seem surprising for an African eight-year-old boy to become addicted to the works of Beethoven, Mozart, Bach, Handel, Hayden, Wagner, Vivaldi, and the other great classical composers, but for me, it was a natural progression.
Reflecting on this eclectic mix of musical influences, I realized that throughout my life, I have never truly belonged to any particular group or culture. Instead, I have transcended borders and embraced a universal identity. My journey has been one of cultural exploration and a deep appreciation for the diversity of human expression.
A Melting Pot of Cultures
Growing up in Lagos, I was exposed to a vibrant blend of Nigerian, African, and Western cultures. The city itself was a melting pot of traditions, languages, and customs. From the bustling markets to the colorful festivals, every corner of Lagos offered a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Nigerian heritage.
But it was not just the local culture that captivated me. As a curious young boy, I eagerly soaked up influences from around the world. Through books, music, and films, I embarked on a journey of discovery, immersing myself in the stories and traditions of different countries and continents.
While my peers were engrossed in the latest trends and fads, I found solace in the timeless beauty of classical music. The symphonies and concertos became my companions, transporting me to a realm where language and cultural barriers ceased to exist. In those moments, I felt a profound connection to something greater than myself - the universal language of music.
A Universal Scientific Culture
As I grew older, my passion for music expanded to encompass another realm of human endeavor - science. Just as music transcends boundaries, so too does the pursuit of knowledge. I found myself drawn to the wonders of the universe, captivated by the mysteries of physics, astronomy, and mathematics.
In my quest for understanding, I realized that the scientific method knows no cultural or geographical boundaries. The laws of nature apply universally, regardless of one's background or beliefs. This realization fueled my desire to embrace a universal scientific culture, one that transcends the confines of nationality or ethnicity.
Through my studies and research, I have had the privilege of collaborating with scientists from all corners of the globe. Together, we have worked towards unraveling the secrets of the universe, pushing the boundaries of human knowledge. In these moments of shared discovery, cultural differences fade away, replaced by a shared passion for understanding the world around us.
A Bridge Between Worlds
As a cultural chameleon, I have come to see myself as a bridge between different worlds. My experiences have allowed me to navigate the complexities of diverse cultures and foster understanding and appreciation for the richness of human expression. I have learned to embrace the similarities and celebrate the differences that make each culture unique.
Through my love for music and science, I have found common ground with people from all walks of life. Whether discussing the intricacies of a symphony or the complexities of a scientific theory, these shared passions have served as a universal language, transcending cultural barriers and fostering connections that go beyond surface-level differences.
My journey as a universal man has been a constant reminder of the beauty and complexity of the world we inhabit. It has taught me the importance of being open-minded, curious, and willing to embrace new experiences. By transcending cultural boundaries, I have been able to forge deep connections and learn from the wisdom of diverse perspectives.
A World Without Borders
As I sit here, reflecting on my life's journey, I am reminded of the power of embracing a universal identity. In a world that often seeks to divide us based on our differences, I am grateful for the experiences that have allowed me to transcend these artificial boundaries.
Through music and science, I have found a home that knows no borders. I have discovered a sense of belonging in the universal language of human expression. And as I continue to navigate the complexities of our globalized world, I am committed to fostering understanding, celebrating diversity, and embracing the beauty of our shared humanity.
After UCLA College of Letters where I obtained PhD is Philosophy, Psychology and Religion I got a teaching job at the University. I felt uneasy teaching. I applied for a job in the mental health field; I got many offers and within two years was running the mental health center where I worked, supervising psychologists and psychiatrists who have been in that field for many decades.
Eventually, I felt bored by the job (of been executive director...I was barely thirty two years old when I was the executive director of the largest mental health agency in the city where I lived) and quit and tried doing other things.
Nothing I tried worked out for me. So, I did other executive director jobs but eventually wound up quitting and returning to college teaching until I felt that teaching is too easy for me; I felt unchallenged being a college professor (I filled my time writing on assorted subjects that interested me).
Eventually, I realized that I have a destiny and fate. My normal routine is to read until I go to sleep (although there is a huge TV in the house, I seldom watch it) and get up around 5 AM, think for a while, and then go to my computer and type the thoughts that I just had in my sleep.