Lately, I've been thinking a lot about culture and what
exactly it means. As a generic who-knows-how-many-generations American, my
culture isn't quite as defined and obvious as that of many first or second
generation Americans’. For example, what is it precisely that makes culture
cultural?
Is it how others see you? As a southerner, I certainly hope
not. We usually get a bad rap in the media.
What about traditional clothing. Is that what makes a
culture? Maybe in some cases, but I don’t think that really applies to us. The
only traditional clothing that’s easily recognizable as “southern” isn't something that we wear at celebrations or formal events as it is with Native
American cultures or cultures from other countries.
We can’t really even say that our language is part of our
culture since it’s spoken in so many other countries that have distinct
cultures of their own.
So what is it that defines those of us that live here in the
south? What is our culture? I've put together a little list. Even though we may
not all do all of these every day. They are, I believe, what describe “the
south.” What do you think?
A southerner has…
1. A love of sweet tea, friend chicken, watermelon,
goober shakes and biscuits and gravy
2. Colorful local colloquial expressions such as:
fixin’ to, bless your heart, over yonder, be back directly, y'all (you all –
plural, not singular), etc.
3. No fear of dirt or hard work
4. A true appreciation of pickup trucks and
football
5. True hospitality and an understanding of when it’s
appropriate to say “yes, sir, yes, ma’am, and sweetie”
6. A good time sittin’ on the front porch chattin' with friends (on a porch swing or in a
rocking chair of course)
7. A good imagination when it comes to fixin’
things (gotta love that duct tape)
8. At one time eaten a moon pie with an R.C. cola
9. A love of country music
10. An understanding of firearms
11. A rule not to leave the house without “looking
how you would want to look if you were to meet the man of your dreams”
12. And last but not least a deep love of God and
country
All of these make up our culture. It’s a part of who we are,
and even though it may not be as noticeable as some other cultures, it’s enough
for me. So, who are you?
