A Third Culture Kid (TCK) is
an individual who, having spent a significant part of their developmental years in a culture other than their parents’ home culture, develops a sense of relationship to all of the cultures, while not having full ownership in any. Elements from each culture are incorporated into the life experience, but the sense of belonging is in relationship to others of similar experience. (David C. Pollock)
Widsith means ‘far journey’, a name I thought was perfectly suited to the Third Culture Kid’s own journey. (TCKs are also known as Global Nomads.)
Widsith is my place to explore the Third Culture side of myself. Upon returning to Canada from overseas I struggled for ten years without any terminology or even an awareness of my third-culture status. Once I had a name for myself, I felt validated and understood. I wasn’t odd, slow or clumsy – I was just navigating through one culture while carrying another inside, always negotiating which part of my cultural identity to express from one situation to the next.
In 2006 I married Scott, a fellow TCK, and together we adopted the world’s most adorable monocultural cockapoo pup named Sascha. We try to broaden her world view through her tastebuds – curry kibbles and the like. As for my husband and me, besides dealing with cross-cultural identity issues we love to philosophize, dream about that log cabin we wish to build in the country one day, wax nostalgic about our childhood cultures, strategize the rearing of our future children, and cook. And while I’m on the topic, take a look through our cookbook, and don’t forget to send us your favourite recipes!
Hi, I just discovered your blog from “The Link Between” blog. I am also a TCK, married to another TCK – in fact, my husband is a missionary kid, like you! Great posts, keep them coming! Is it okay if I link to your blog from mine (http://third-culture-kid.com)? Thanks!
Thank you, s23ad! I would certainly appreciate a link to my blog. I’ve taken a look at your blog as well, and would like to link to it here too, if that’s alright?
I’ve added your blog to my blogroll. And yes, I would appreciate a link to my blog too!
Isn’t it great to know there is a name for this cultural dissonance that we feel?
Yes, it is! I remember how I felt when I heard about David Pollock’s Third Culture Kid profile: Finally I understood why I functioned in my surroundings the way I did, and through that understanding I felt I had more control over the way I was able to settle in and function with others in my ‘home’ culture.