May: Culture Shock

A Laotian man sat down at my desk yesterday seeking medication assistance. He is a refugee. He has been living in the United States for about a year, and three months ago "moved" to the South Park neighborhood. I say "moved" because he doesn't really have a home. He has no money and no house, just a friend who would let him stay on his couch, but occasionally will change his mind and throw him out.

He has no money and is trying to manage hypertension and cholesterol. Fortunately his medications are available on the $4 list for some generics, but he can't even afford that. He is plugged in with an Asian Resource Center, but he cannot find work until his health is better. He speaks in a hoarse whisper and doesn't know why he can't speak louder.

As we talked about his inconsistent housing situation, and difficult financial circumstances, he started to talk about life in the United States:

"I am a refugee form Laos. I love America. I am proud to be in America, But in America, you are all by yourself. At 18, you move out of your families house, you are expected to pay for things on your own. You are responsible for yourself. Its different here when you have to pay for things, how you have to pay for things, and who has to pay for them. I'm proud to be an American, but it is a hard life here."

This makes me call into question the individualistic nature of our American culture. We strive for independence from our families, from each other, to make our own story and our own lives. There is social support, but it is created by individuals or some families, not necessarily supported by our societal or governmental structure. Social support and a willingness to help people outside of yourself are values that can be easily lost.

Hearing the story of someone who is deeply struggling to get by shows me how painful this isolation and individualism can be. It helps me better understand the value of community - how it can provide not just social support but can be a tangible resource, a source of sanity, and a vehicle for positive change that everyone deserves be a part of.