Cultural Differences in Expressing Appreciation: Reflections from the Thai Film – ‘How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies’
In our fast-paced, globalised world, understanding cultural nuances in expressing appreciation is more important than ever. The Thai film How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies offers a poignant exploration of these differences, highlighting how gestures of care and love are expressed in Asian cultures. This reflection aims to shed light on the significance of these gestures, especially in the context of monetary and material giving, and the potential conflicts that arise when these cultural values intersect with Western ideals, particularly for second-generation migrants in Australia and other Anglosphere countries.
Implicit Caring Gestures in Asian Culture
Asian cultures often emphasise implicit expressions of love and appreciation through actions rather than words. In many Asian families, acts of service, providing for the family, and giving monetary gifts are seen as profound expressions of love and care. These gestures go beyond financial transactions; they symbolise security, commitment, and the desire to support loved ones. In How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies, this cultural aspect is vividly portrayed. The protagonist M’s journey from feeling emotionally disconnected from his family’s world, particularly with Amah (grandma), to realising the complexity of his family’s relationships, monetary exchanges, and expectations of responsibility, resonates deeply. M’s reconnection with Amah and shift in perception and motivation have captured many viewers’ hearts.
The Significance of Monetary and Material Giving
In Asian cultures, giving money or gifts is deeply rooted in tradition and carries significant meaning. It is a way of showing respect, gratitude, and ensuring the well-being of family members. This form of giving is often misunderstood by those from Western backgrounds, where verbal expressions of love and appreciation are more common. In the film, Amah uses various acts and gestures to show her care for her offspring, such as food offerings, tree planting, and her determination to acquire wealth. Her choice of a good burial ground location is not merely about selfish gain but a means to ensure good feng shui to influence her children’s future fortune, reflecting a cultural norm where material expression equates to love and responsibility.
The Societal Shift: Blending of Western Values
While the movie is based in Thailand, it prompts reflection on what’s happening closer to home in Melbourne, Australia. As societies become more multicultural, there is a blending of values and ethics that can lead to conflicts, particularly for second-generation migrants. Many of these individuals grow up in Western environments where verbal affirmation and recognition of achievements are highly valued. Consequently, they may feel unloved or unappreciated when their family members do not express affection in ways they understand. This can lead to misunderstandings and conflicts within families, as differing communication styles clash.
The film highlights this tension by showcasing how the younger generation navigates their identities, feeling caught between self-focused personal gain and newfound empowerment through familial care and connection.
For second-generation migrants, the tug of war between two cultures can leave individuals feeling isolated, struggling to reconcile their heritage with their lived experiences in a Western context. They may experience a more strict, top-down approach in their upbringing but must interact with a society where social norms are based on individualism.
Navigating Cultural Differences
Understanding and appreciating cultural differences in expressing love and appreciation is crucial for fostering harmony in multicultural settings. For second-generation migrants, acknowledging their family’s cultural practices and the underlying meanings can bridge the gap between perceived indifference and genuine care.
Open communication and cultural sensitivity can help individuals navigate these differences. It’s important to engage in conversations that acknowledge and respect diverse expressions of love and appreciation, creating space for understanding and acceptance within families. Accepting these differences and having psychological plasticity fosters stronger resilience and adaptability, ultimately embracing a multicultural lens.
Reaching Out for Support
Sometimes, it is difficult to overcome the rigid, top-down family system at home. If you find yourself struggling with these cultural differences and their impact on your relationships, reaching out for support can be incredibly beneficial. Engaging with counsellors who understand multicultural dynamics can provide valuable insights and strategies to enhance communication and connection with loved ones.
At Ashore Wellness, Nick is a professionally trained counsellor who understands the roots of many Asian cultures. He supports many clients from multicultural backgrounds and has insights and lived experiences working with the complex identities faced by his clients.
Contact us today to find out how to get started with our support.
