My story - Built from a ‘‘cultural melting pot’’
A Journey from the Heart of France to the Soul of Norway: Embracing Change and Finding Common Ground.
First fly-by over the beautiful, south-western norwegian fjords, approaching Bergen’s airport (Nov. 2009)
As the plane took off from the London Heathrow runway, leaving behind the familiar landscapes of France, I couldn't help but feel a whirlwind of emotions. At 24, I was embarking on a journey not just to another country but to a new life in Norway. The excitement of the unknown mingled with a tinge of nostalgia for the long-lived culture I was leaving behind. This reminded me of the exact same excitement which inhabited me 2 years earlier when I took the leap to go and work for a few months in Taiwan. But this will be part of another story later…
France, with its rich history, vibrant art scene, and culinary excellence, had been my home, my identity. Yet, here I was, ready to embrace the colder and simpler way of living in Norway.
Two countries - Two architectures
The transition was anything but easy. Landing in the beautiful, yet wettest city in Europe named Bergen, marked a stark contrast to the mild french winters I was accustomed to. Not knowing a word of Norwegian, too, posed obviously its challenges, making everyday interactions an adventure in themselves. However, it was in these challenges that I found unexpected beauty and lessons that would, over the years, profoundly shape my understanding of the world and myself.
During my second winter, while trying to express some optimism while enduring my second wettest winter in a row, I mentioned to one of my colleagues the french saying, "Après la pluie vient le beau temps" (After the rain comes the sunshine). To that, my colleague smiled, replying with their own proverb, "Det finnes ikke dårlig vær men bare dårlige klær" (There's no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothes). Looking at it now, this exchange encapsulated almost perfectly the contrasting yet profound approaches to life's challenges in both cultures, and how one can either see its glass half full or half empty…
The norwegian culture, with its emphasis on simplicity, equality, and a deep connection with nature, offered a refreshing perspective on life. The stunning landscapes of fjords and mountains were not just a backdrop to my new life but became a source of inspiration and solace. I learned to appreciate the quiet moments, the beauty of a serene landscape, and the value of living sustainably. This simplicity in lifestyle and thought was a marked departure from the bustling cities and the somewhat complex social hierarchies I had known in France. It taught me the importance of finding joy in the little things and the strength that comes from a community that values the well-being of all its members.
Embracing the Norwegian way of life led me to reflect on my own roots. I began to see France through a different lens, appreciating its culture and traditions with a newfound depth. The long dinners with family and friends, the lively discussions, and the passion for life that characterizes French culture took on a new meaning. It was as if by stepping away, I could see the beauty of my homeland more clearly. This journey was not just about adopting a new culture but about understanding and valuing my own in a way I never had before.
However, the most profound lesson I learned was about the universal values that connect us as humans. Despite the stark differences between French and Norwegian cultures, the underlying human desires for connection, understanding, and peace were the same. It was a powerful reminder that, at our core, we are more alike than different. This realization fueled my belief in the importance of opening ourselves to others, embracing our differences, and finding common ground.
In Norway, I found a community of people from all walks of life, each with their own stories and backgrounds. The conversations and friendships I developed are a testament to the richness that diversity brings to our lives. It was through these interactions that I learned the importance of empathy, open-mindedness, and the courage to step out of our comfort zones. By welcoming and learning from each other, we can build bridges of understanding that transcend cultural and geographical boundaries.
This journey has also instilled in me a sense of responsibility towards the world we leave for the next generations. The environmental consciousness I observed in Norway, with its focus on conservation and sustainability, was a call to action. It taught me that our daily choices have a profound impact on our planet's future. Embracing cultural differences and working together towards a common goal can lead to innovative solutions for the challenges we face, making the world a safer and better place.
As I reflect on my journey from France to Norway, I am filled with gratitude for the lessons learned and the growth experienced. This adventure was not just about discovering a new country but about rediscovering myself. It reinforced my belief in the power of embracing change, the beauty of diversity, and the importance of nurturing our shared humanity.
In the end, the journey from the heart of France to the soul of Norway has been a journey towards understanding. It has taught me that by widening our horizons and opening ourselves to others, we have so much more to gain than to lose. It's about building a world where empathy, understanding, and cooperation are the cornerstones. A world where, despite our differences, we can come together to create a legacy geared towards sustainability and contribution, for the generations to come. And in this continuous journey of learning and growth, I have found the inspiration and energy that has led me to create ‘‘The 9 Keys’’, which will hopefully benefit you beyond your own expectations.
