Communication and Culture

I think as much as we hate to admit it many people find themselves communicating with people of the same age, race or religion. Reason being, there are more commonalities; you are more likely to have things in common. I do find myself communicating differently with people from different groups and cultures. For instance, having a conversation at lunch may go completely different depending on what group of people you are talking to. I have experienced situations where I was talking to a colleague, who is a different race, religion and much older. The conversation appeared smooth but my feelings inside did not match. Actually, I was on edge with every word coming out of my mouth, not sure her perspective on issues or how she would interpret what I was saying.  I found myself wanting to agree with her just so the conversation would not go south. I also found myself talking about things I had no interest in or really wanted to talk about. Now, when I am talking to someone who I feel we share plenty in common close in age, race, religion etc. the conversation is differently. It may appear similar but I am more relaxed the conversation flows natural; we share commonalities without looking for something in common. If there is dead silence, I do not feel awkward. I can look at a person directly in the eye because I am not leery of what I am saying. It may be laziness not trying to put forward the effort to communicate with people who are different from us or fear at times but it is easier during certain situations to communicate with someone with similar likings.