I first learned the definition of culture from my government and econ teacher. Mr. Ingles explained to us that culture was learned behavior. Writing about the behaviors I’ve learned over the years is difficult because summing up that many events in three hundred words is impossible. However, the best place to start is probably where I am from. I am from Greenville, SC. Its one of the bigger cities in South Carolina and is located in the upstate near the Blue Ridge Mountains. I mention the Blue Ridge Mountains because most Greenvillians know all the secret spots across the beautifal mountain range. We even have a place that is literally titled “Pretty Place.” From secret waterfalls, to a rock the Indians beleived the gods ate off of, one thing Greenville has is natural beauty.
Another thing Greenville is known for is being part of the imfamous “Bible Belt.” I think it’s only appropraite to describe it as my old baptist preacher said, “There is a church on every corner. No, there is a church in between the churches on every corner.” As unbelievealbe as it seems, this is actually pretty accurate, and defines the way people in Greenville go about their lives. I was raised in both the Southern Baptist church and the Episcopal church. Both places provided me with tremendous opportunities including a church basketball championship, lifelong friends, and even a job. Church gave me a tight knit community that I could go to when I was in need of advice or help. In addition, it allowed me to be active in my community and help those in need. I remember many a Sunday in service at the local Soup Kitchen. The most important thing church gave me was a family. Even though we aren’t related, we all share a common bond. Sometimes, this bond was stronger than my traditional family. Church is just one of the many places ive been that has impacted my culture.
Even though church had such a big impact on my life, I no longer go because of other priorities and experiences. However, I look forward to rejoining my old church in the future.
royceherbert 