Newcomer, a subjective word

As a Psychologist, I am used to writing or reflecting upon subjective words, which meanings are based on or influenced by personal feelings or emotions. And even after five years of living abroad, my foreign status still teaches me new things.

If I ask my immigrant folks who they are, which alternative would be their choice?

a) I am a newcomer. 

b) I am an immigrant.

c) I am a permanent resident.

d) All the above

I would answer the letter D.

It reminds me of the concept of Kairos, a qualitative time of life. It is a different way to view time beyond the chronological concept. The main idea is to recognize the period of time according to what is suitable for the individual, with a subjective point of view.

So, I realized there is no time aside from my self-perception, that defines who I am. For now, I am a permanent resident, but I still feel like a newcomer, exploring new skills in a new culture. I wish my self-perception as a newcomer lasts as long as I remain curious and welcome to a diverse and open-minded world. 

Maybe all of us are newcomers. It doesn’t matter where we are from or how long we are living abroad. It is a kind of mindset, a different point of view.

“someone who has recently arrived in a place or recently become involved in an activity” (Meaning of Newcomer – Cambridge Dictionary)