Once we start diving deeper into the diverse cultures of the world, we begin to learn more about the universal truths that many cultures hold. Eastern culture and Eastern culture literature are riddled with beautiful imagery of nature as well as beautiful stories about love. Amongst the beauty of nature and love, we get to glimpse into the values and gender norms that many Eastern cultures hold. Poetry holds a strong place in many cultures, Early Chinese Poetry reflects the history and values of Chinese culture. In the poem “Peach Tree Soft and Tender” the author reflects the beauty of nature against the innocence of a bride. The author writes

Peach tree soft and tender,

plump, the ripening fruit.

The bride is going to her home,

she well befits this house.

The nature reflected in the poem reflects the importance of wen or the manifestation of true life in literature. The theme of love and beauty is also present in one of the most popular stories “The Story of YingYing” which explores ideas of honor, family, gender traditions, and the importance of society versus the individual. These themes are present in many current-day texts such as The Joy Luck Club and many others. When teaching or learning about Eastern culture, it is important to reflect on how the different cultures and values are present in our lives, how are we influenced by other cultures and how are we different. At the end of the day, we all value beauty and love, is this a universal culture?

We have all faced tough moral and ethical decisions and often times feel powerless when faced with a problem that seems much larger than ourselves. When faced with a dilemma we have two choices, to act or do nothing.  Like the characters in the following stories, whether we chose to act or remain indecisive, both can have harmful effects on our lives, so what is right? 

“The Metamorphosis” by Kafka

“The Guest” by Camus

“Requiem” by Akhmatova

“Faust” by Goethe

All the characters in these stories have decisions to make whether it be to continue fighting for their family, whether or not to send a man to prison, stand up to an unjust government, or trade their soul for power. Each of these unique stories offers perspective on facing tough moral decisions, like many of us do. When we feel powerless, our tendency is often to stay quiet, thinking that there is no possible way for us to make a change. But like Gregor in “The Metamorphosis” choosing to do nothing can be peril, or like Daru in “The Guest” indecision can be equally devastating. 

Twenty-Twenty has proven to be a year of tough moral and ethical decisions, these stories not only relate to individual choices but also pertain to social justice matters. There are many ways we can learn to make tough moral decisions, some ways would be: 

-Reflect on the current issues in the United States and discuss the power that each of us holds in taking a stand

-Discuss pertinent articles and current events

-Read stories of diverse characters that have to make tough decisions

-Interview a grandparent about a challenging decision that they have had to make

There are many ways to face moral dilemmas, but indecision or inaction will not lead to progress. If we want to change we have to inspire it in ourselves and around us. As Akhmatova says, 

And if they gag my exhausted mouth, 

Through which a hundred million scream

Then may the people remember me

On the eve of my remembrance day. 

Our voice alone can speak for millions, we mustn’t give up when we feel powerless and we must stand for one another.