How Moving Abroad Helped Me Recognize and Appreciate My Privileges - A Personal Journey

Privilege often brings to mind images of wealth and luxury. Many people assume it means having a lot of money or living a life free from struggles. However, privilege is actually more complex and touches many areas of our lives, such as race, gender, economic status, and even our birthplace. When I moved from the comfort of life in the United States to the dynamic experience of living abroad, I began to understand the different layers of privilege. I want to share how this change helped me realize the privileges I had and reshaped my definition of what it means to have privilege.

The Facade of Privilege

When the topic of privilege arises, people often think of obvious signs like wealth or societal standing. But many hidden advantages shape our day-to-day experiences. During my time living in a new country, I realized just how many privileges I took for granted.

Many of us may believe we've considered privilege deeply, but without stepping outside our familiar surroundings, it is easy to miss the less visible benefits that we enjoy. It wasn’t until I challenged myself to adjust to a new culture that I truly recognized the many privileges I carried.

Common Privileges I Took for Granted in the U.S.

Moving abroad forced me to confront aspects of my identity that I had overlooked before. Here are some privileges that hit me hard after my relocation:

Space

In the U.S., I had become used to ample living space, allowing me solitude whenever desired. In suburban America, both physical and emotional space felt like a given. Yet in many parts of the UK, living spaces are often much smaller, and urban life is bustling and crowded.

For instance, many residents of cities like London live in apartments that are under 600 square feet. This stark contrast made me appreciate the expansive environments I left behind.

24/7 Access

In the U.S., we enjoy convenience at our fingertips: grocery stores open late, and restaurants cater to late-night diners. This constant availability shapes our routines and expectations. Upon arriving in the UK, I soon realized that stores often close by 6 PM, and weekends can limit options even further. The sudden need to plan ahead shifted how I approached my daily life.

Isolation from Conflict

Living in the U.S. often creates a false sense of security from global issues. While civil unrest and war happen elsewhere, my American life mostly kept me insulated from these realities. After moving abroad, I found myself engaging in conversations about conflicts that felt closer to home. The experiences and stories from my friends abroad challenged my understanding of geopolitical issues in ways I had never considered before.

Cultural Recognition

As an American, I often felt a sense of pride associated with my cultural identity. Yet, upon settling into my new surroundings, I found myself in the role of an outsider. This change forced me to rethink my understanding of belonging and identity. For example, I struggled to connect with the local culture initially, which made me aware of my position and the dynamics of cultural diversity.

Proximity to Major Cities

I lived within easy reach of major cities like New York City and Washington, D.C., which are treasures of culture and opportunity. While relocating to the UK provided new experiences, it meant giving up the familiarity of these iconic urban centers. Although I now have access to cities like London and Paris, the unique opportunities in my hometown are irreplaceable.

Hot Summers and Diverse Landscapes

While I often complained about the intense summers filled with humidity, I began to appreciate the rich geographic diversity of the U.S. From mountains to coastlines, the variety is stunning. Adjusting to a different climate in the UK, which is often damp and cooler, made me more grateful for the varied landscapes I once took for granted.

New Privileges I’ve Gained as an American in the UK

While my move meant losing certain comforts, it also led to a range of new privileges that have positively impacted my life:

Safety

Living in the UK has offered me a different sense of security regarding issues like gun violence and food safety. The NHS also ensures that basic health care is accessible and affordable, allowing me to feel less stressed about my health.

Access to Europe

One of the most enriching aspects of living in the UK is the proximity to various European countries. The ability to hop on a train and reach places like France or Spain in a matter of hours is invaluable. For example, round-trip tickets to Paris can sometimes cost as low as 70 GBP, enabling spontaneous weekend trips that broaden my understanding of different cultures in ways that would have required more time and money back home.

No Snow

After growing up in a region known for harsh winter storms, I’ve relished the milder winters in England. The break from shoveling snow has been a welcome change, allowing me to enjoy the season in a more pleasant way.

Knowledge and Opportunity

Living abroad has opened my eyes to new perspectives. Each conversation, new friendship, and cultural experience has enriched my understanding of the world. For instance, joining local community events has helped me meet people from vastly different backgrounds, illuminating issues I had never thought about before.

Access to NHS and Healthier Living

The British National Health Service has provided me with an appreciation for accessible health care. The focus on wellness allows me to prioritize my health without the stress often associated with navigating the healthcare system in the U.S.

Broader Perspectives

Lastly, my move has equipped me with a greater understanding of global issues. Living in a different culture fosters empathy and a sense of connection to the world that I find enriching.

The Importance of Recognizing Privilege

Recognizing privilege is not merely about guilt. It is about nurturing empathy and understanding. When we acknowledge our privileges, we learn to appreciate the complexities of diverse experiences, which helps us become more compassionate individuals.

My journey of recognizing my privileges has proven to be transformative. It offers insight into navigating my new home and encourages advocacy for those who may not share the same advantages.

Final Thoughts

It's easy to overlook our privileges amid life’s busyness. Yet recognizing them is essential for deeper understanding of the world around us. This awareness fosters compassion and inspires actions that positively impact our communities.

Whether you remain in your home country or explore new ones, take time to reflect on your privileges. You may uncover valuable insights that enhance your understanding of yourself and those around you. Embrace your privilege; let it guide you toward a deeper appreciation of the world we all share.