They convey recognizable meanings that are shared by societies. (Hanover-Park, 2012) For example, the Puerto Rican flag has three red stripes which represent the blood from the brave warriors. The two white stripes represent the victory and peace that they would have after gaining independence. The white star represented the island of Puerto Rico. The blue represents the sky and blue coastal waters. (World Atlas) It is a symbol of my home town and all that I believe in. .
Language.
Language is a symbolic system through which people communicate and through which culture is transmitted. Language is intrinsic to the expression of culture. As a means of communicating values, beliefs and customs, it has an important social function and fosters feelings of group identity and solidarity. It is the means by which culture and its traditions and shared values may be conveyed and preserved. (Farooq, 2012) For example, as a child I was only permitted to speak my native language "Spanish" in the home and in school I had to speak in English in order to communicate with my classmates and teacher but when I returned home; it was back to speaking "Spanish" again. My parents wanted to make sure that I did not forget my native language and identity as a Hispanic girl. .
Values .
Values are principles, standards or qualities that an individual or group of people hold in high regard. These values guide the way we live our lives and the decisions we make. A value may be defined as something that we hold dear, those things/qualities which we consider to be of worth. Most values are made up of everything that has happened to you in your life and include influences from your parents and family, your religious affiliation, your friends and peers, your education, your reading, and more. An individual person can recognize these environmental influences and identify and develop a clear, concise, and meaningful set of values/beliefs, and priorities (Boundless, 2015).