Love is hard to find, it’s like searching for a needle in a haystack. It could be challenging finding someone who you find attractive, shares the same interests, can have a meaningful conversation with, and are compatible with you. The most difficult part is that the compatible person will have to feel the same about you as well. Once you go through all the barriers, you are now ready for a meaningful relationship. Unfortunately, culture and race play a huge role in the relationship. A person’s ethnicity and culture often define their upbringing and who they are. These aspects can be very challenging for interracial couples.
Even though society has become more accepting and supportive of the idea of interracial dating, but there are still inner struggles that these couples would have to overcome in order to build a strong relationship. Sometimes, the struggles are very intense, that couples would read the various blog post from Love is All Colors about other interracial couples and how they endure these challenges.
Through various trials and tribulations, there are a variety of strategies out there to mitigate these obstacles.
Not Understanding Each Other‘s Culture
When you find the person of your dreams, it’s important to understand their culture. Take the time to talk, discuss, and learn about how your significant other’s culture works and shapes their lives. For example, if a Christian were to date a Buddhist, they should understand that in the Buddhist culture, food is laid around on the table for their dead ancestor spirit to eat. That means if you see food on the table that is presented to a Buddha statue or a picture of someone, do not grab it and eat it, that is a sign of disrespect. If your significant other were to enter your home and see a cross or crucifix, they should understand that this is a sign of worship to the Christian household.
Dealing with Public Perception
Even though society has become more open-minded, but there are still people who have issues with interracial dating. They will look at the relationship with disgust and come up with negative comments. It’s best to ignore these negative perception and to stay strong with each other. If your significant other feels hurt, it’s best to talk about it and find ways to protect him or her from the negative impact.
Dealing with Unaccepting Parents
Parents often want their kids to be with someone who shares the same culture and value. However, they can’t always choose who their kids fall in love with. There will be times that parents would show disapproval and are unwilling to accept your significant other’s culture. It’s best to talk to your family and try to make them understand how this person is important in your life. They may not accept it at first, but as time goes by when they get to know your significant others, they will be more open-minded. As for your significant other, it’s important to give them the confidence that you love and respect them despite your family’s disapproval.
Keep in mind that the whole family approval will take time so it’s best to accept the facts and slowly and gradually let things happen on their own.
Finding someone who is compatible with you is hard enough. That special person might have a different ethnicity and culture than you do. The challenging part is having to deal with the problems and struggles that interracial couples often go through. However, with a strong communication and understanding of each other‘s lives and culture along with the love that you share, and you can experience a fruitful and successful relationship that can last a lifetime.