By Charlotte K. Jarmy
Reflections
When we drive through our state, I am always impressed by its size, its changing vistas and its ability to offer visual treats. Looking at the map of the entire country, it’s easy to understand the impact California has on the rest of the nation. We really encompass several states in one: the farmlands, the deserts, the mysterious distant mountains, the turbulent urban centers, the quiet rural areas with grazing animals, the miles of water canals as well as the tiny blue lakes. We are so fortunate. It’s no wonder that we Californians have a love of the road where we can gaze at the swiftly passing landscape or decide to meander down a road totally new to our experience.
Given this luxury to explore and learn about our state’s history, it’s no wonder that we are changing into a place where people from many cultures make up the population. Surveys tell us that few live such isolated lives that they are unaware of the changes up and down the state. The latest survey reported that 42% of Californians responded that the shifting demographics is a “good thing.” This nation, made up of immigrants, can absorb the floodtide of Latinos as well as those with Asian heritage. We have only to look to see and listen to hear the effects of the new Americans: there is an intermingling of languages, of ethnic restaurants, of people of color, and celebrations of various holidays and religious observances.
Again I say, “How fortunate we are.!” Diversity keeps us from stagnating in our older values and our comfortable sameness. Various segments of the population differed in their attitudes towards a changing population. I consider it very positive that younger people, perhaps because of the blending of populations in their schools, see diversity as normal and good.
When I probe my own personal reactions, I am honest enough to say that I enjoy the idea of diversity, but I wonder about the future when the majority becomes a minority. I know that I want English to be the language of the entire country, unlike say Quebec, and I am opposed to changing what we consider to be our literary heritage, understanding that what I mean is the European language of Shakespeare, Milton and other luminaries. But I also realize that we have already moved to incorporate the beauty of other cultures in our schools and in our appreciation of the fine art and music of countries all over the world.
I believe that it is very human to hold on to the known and worry about the unknown. I feel no guilt in expressing concern about a future that encompasses new ideas and new discoveries for all of us. There is a part of me that moves gently into a new world, but I expect to adapt as I have done in the past. There will be times when I will want to escape to the road again and breathe in the beauty that is so available to us.
The world has moved on dramatically in the years since World War II when we separated our soldiers according to the color of their skin, and when Japanese Americans fought valiantly and died to prove their loyalty to this country. Memorial Day ceremonies left a lump in my throat as I watched elderly men weep for their buddies who never came home. Our greatest tribute to them is to accord all Americans the dignity and respect they deserve. We are so fortunate.
