Closing Thoughts...

Although our final discussion on The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down was a week ago, I wanted to share my thoughts on the book. The lack of communication is the key problem that is mentioned throughout each chapter, whether that was from not being able to understand because of a language barrier or a cultural barrier. As was demonstrated in various situations, no one was particularly at fault for the lack of understanding; frustration could be seen from both sides. However, I feel that if everyone took the time to appreciate the other culture and traditions, many of the issues that were raised would not have necessarily occurred. Regardless, it is difficult to find a balance between two such distinct ways of thinking; the Hmong people will uphold the values they have lived by, as will Americans will continue to follow their fast-paced way of life. In order for communication to truly happen, a compromise must be reached. Compromising, however, is a difficult task for many people of all cultures and backgrounds.

I am not sure what could be done to "fix" a problem like this. Although cultural brokers are a great idea, I am not sure if it the most practical. Not only would it be expensive, I feel like with the strict rules and regulations that are already in effect in our medical system today, being able to facilitate the understanding between two groups of people would be restricted in some aspects. Furthermore, when looking at the broader picture, having a cultural broker for one distinct culture is not enough. The United States is termed the "melting pot" for a reason. Is it reasonable to have a cultural broker for every culture? I am not sure how this plan, although great in idea, would be put into practice.

I felt as if this book represented how much improvement our medical system can make. Aside from all the technological advances and breakthroughs in disease, it is more important to understand and appreciate each individual person rather than the problem that is being fixed. I honestly feel as if we should go back to the basics, or at the very least, try to incorporate them into what has already been set.