Resources

There is an overload of resources about TCK's on the internet. It is sometimes hard to find what we are looking for. Here are just three helpful ones that I enjoy reading. The first one is specifically for parents who are trying to understand their TCK's and the second one is a website with many stories and encouraging videos. The third one is an online magazine for Third Culture Kids.



Here is a link written by a parent of TCK's. It is very touching and powerful. I hope it encourages TCK's to remember who they truly are and also supports parents with a little more insight on their children.

* Rachel Pieh Jones

Here is another TCK website that is a great resource and encouragement. There are many links on the website to testimonies and real life experiences from interviews with TCK's.

*Sheryl O'Bryan

Here is a link to an online magazine for Third Culture Kids. It is extremely informational and a great tool in times of need.


*Denizen Magazine

Transition

 Here is a video expressing many TCK's opinions about their lifestyle:

 

I enjoy this video a lot because it clearly explains the various thought processes and feelings of a typical TCK. I titled my blog Outside the Box because that is a realistic picture of life for a TCK. We are complex, we are different, we are united, and we live outside the ordinary.  Even though I agree with most of the information presented in the video, I believe that it is up to each individual TCK to make the effort and have the right attitude to get through transition and change.
Personally, I believe that without a positive outlook on how grateful and blessed we truly are, life can get very overwhelming. Our sense of belonging does not need to be found in the world, in a place, or the daunting question of Where are you From? The constant eagerness to be on the move, to not get too far in a relationship because of the fear of having to say goodbye again, or the sense of confusion and chaos will always be a part of me, but it does not need to define me. I am set free in a loving God. I belong to Him. My sense of belonging can be found in Him alone. The greatest challenge for me being here in America for college is the challenge of staying. I constantly wrestle with the idea of being in one place. I have realized that my challenge is to stay. It is an exciting challenge to have to get through, because I am never alone on this journey. Remember, that you are never alone either. 

Here is my short and simple version of a guide to help with the transitioning process in a new culture:

1. It's not easy. Accept the fact that it won't be a breeze. Accept the fact that you will face moments of complete confusion and be overwhelmed. Accept the fact, however, that you are NEVER alone. 

2. You are not alone. Remind yourself everyday that people across the world are thinking of you. Remind yourself everyday that you will never walk alone. There are so many other TCK's to support you. And you have a God who is ALWAYS by your side. 

3. Just be YOU. It is important to remember to be YOU, no matter what culture you enter or exit. You are more blessed than you realize to have experienced so many cultures. Use your experience to bless others! 

4. Never be intimidated or scared to ask questions. TCK's are either always asking the questions or never asking them. Don't be anxious if you think your naive question is not worth asking- you will surprise yourself when you find out how many people really do want to help you. Don't feel embarrassed either by always being the one with the question. 

5. Enjoy the memories of the past but learn to LET GO. TCK's have a "major challenge with unresolved grief" from their pasts. Learn to forgive and forget. Learn to loosen up and enjoy memories but not hang onto them. Learn to LIVE. 

6. LOVE! Remember to love. In everything you do: Love others. Love, love, and love.