Integrated Writing Assignment

Selection of Diversity Factors

There are a wide range of diversity factors that are relevant in todays contemporary society. These are inclusive of, but they are not limited to; age, sexual orientation, gender, religion/spirituality, ability status, socialeconomic status, ethnicity, and race. From the onset, it would be prudent to note that the diversity factors that happen to be most relevant to my identity are; religion/spirituality, gender, as well as sexual orientation.

Self-Reflection

a) Religion/Spirituality

Religion and spirituality happens to be a core aspect of the human experience. In my case, I embrace spirituality as a connection between self and a Creator. I am of the opinion that since we originate from the same Creator, there exists no need to have many religious denominations. For this reason, I do not consider myself a member of any religious following. I believe we are born with an innate ability to distinguish between right and wrong and that our engagements with others (and our inner self) ought to be founded upon this innate instinct.

I consider myself marginalized in this perspective because by and large, the society congregates around certain established religions and belief systems. These are inclusive of Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism, etc.

I was brought up in a strictly Christian household. I largely agree with the basic Christian tenets of distinction between good and bad. However, I disagree with the notion that our engagements with the Creator (our Father) should be mediated by any individual or entity.

To a large extent, my belief system permits me to consider other human beings as brothers and sisters regardless of the faith or doctrine they ascribe to. On the other hand, on key limitation is that I might in some instances be critical of those who appear to be held hostage by certain doctrines to the extent that their perception of reality becomes blurred.

I am of the opinion that my experiences will be of great relevance in as far as cross cultural interactions with future clients is concerned owing to the fact that my engagements with others is not likely to be impacted by differences in religious doctrine or creed.

b) Sexual Orientation

In as far as sexual orientation is concerned, I happen to be in favor of heterosexual relations. My perspective is on this front rooted upon a commonsense approach to creation. I am of the opinion that by design, sexual engagement should be for purposes of procreation. Thus, any...…beliefs of others especially when they differ from our own viewpoints and/or beliefs. One of the ways of improving cultural competence is attendance of seminars/workshops or taking courses on cultural awareness. This is a structured instructional approach that equips one with the skills of relevance in efforts to better engage with others from different backgrounds. Secondly, one could also consult available literature on the subject. Various textbooks and journal articles adequately address the subject in a meaningful and easy-to-understand format. Thus, there are beneficial tips one could gather on this front. Third, there may be need to insert oneself in forums that bring together persons from diverse backgrounds. This could give one the exposure needed to embrace divergent opinions and perspectives. Examples of such forums are inclusive of, but they are not limited to various social media channels, professional gatherings, community philanthropic formations or groups, etc. Lastly, one could pursue familiarity with the cultures and ways of lives of other people or groups. This could be done by, for instance, reading about the beliefs and practices of persons from other parts of the world, etc. There may also be need for an individual to embrace travel as a way of learning…