Some of the perks....

There are two basic overlays to the life of the TCK/MK: MOBILITY and EARLY CROSS-CULTURAL EXPOSURE. It is through this matrix that MK development occurs. The effects of these two themes result in a distinct culture in spite of the diversity of experience represented by this group. A child raised by English business people in Dubai will have more in common culturally with a child raised by American missionaries to Singapore than either will with monocultural members of their passport culture(including their parents!).

In brief, some of the amazing perks of this upbringing are seen in who the TCK/MK grows up to be:

-Adaptable: These people are adaptable and generally at home with change. Many in this group seek out change as a way of life and feel most alive and “in the zone” in the adaptive state. They often relish the role of the pioneer and trailblazer. In fact, most MKs characterize adaptability as a core strength and an important and valued (and often hard won) aspect of their identity.

-Cross-culturally Savvy: Cross- cultural immersion at an early age usually results in heightened cultural sensitivity. MKs are often gifted interpreters of culture and are utilized as “bridge” people frequently in their professions. MKs can have an intuitive grasp of correct behavior in cultures they have encountered even infrequently. They are gifted observers and enter a new culture with their eyes, not their mouths! Their high comfort level even within a culture that is new to them means that often they are culturally adventurous and tolerant.

- Relational: MKs are generally very relational people. They place a high value on relationships and are gifted in their ability to maximize relationships and maintain them over geographical distances. Due to their exposure to so many kinds of people at a very young age they are often very broadly relationally competent and can find ways to relate to almost anyone. This early exposure also results in relational tolerance and acceptance and appreciation of all kinds of people.

-Compassionate: Most MKs have experienced life as a marginal minority. They have also grown up in families where ministry is the central focus. As a result they are very aware of the underdog and are drawn to advocacy and ministry that is focused on those who have no voice. In fact, over half of the TCK population seeks employment within the non-profit sector. This orientation outwards to the needs of the marginalized is a hallmark of the culture.

-Highly Motivated: This is a group of self-starters. For the most part MKs are highly motivated and productive people. They are generally fast-paced, independent and resourceful.

Norma McCaig summarizes these benefits well:

"The benefits of this upbringing need to be underscored: In an era when global vision is an imperative, when skills in intercultural communication, linguistic ability, mediation, diplomacy, and the management of diversity are critical, global nomads are better equipped in these areas by the age of eighteen than are many adults...These intercultural and linguistic skills are the markings of the cultural chameleon- the young participant observer who takes note of verbal and non-verbal cues and readjusts accordingly, taking on enough of the coloration of the social surroundings to gain acceptance while maintaining some vestige of identity as a different animal, an 'other.'"