However, there are ways that can prevent intercultural communication from becoming a negative experience. This happens through knowledge and awareness. For effective communication, it is very important to realize that a person of different culture has a different way of communicating (DeVito, 2012). Being aware of these differences can play an important role in shaping the positive experiences we have when communicating with other cultures. Houman and Flammia (2011) stated that having “…respect for differences is an important component of conscious intercultural communication” (p. 27). My friends didn't understand the reason for the accident and eventually took it personally. As a result, they confronted my mother about what, in Indian culture, was a disrespectful act. The initial problem in this situation was poor communication. I couldn't convey to my New Zealand friends how important it is in our culture to celebrate with family. The aspect of a collectivist high culture was new to my young New Zealand friends. Therefore, I should have communicated and given them more context and knowledge so they could understand the situation better. Furthermore, as a New Zealand Indian, I am able to embrace both cultures equally. However, due to the extremes of cultural distinctions involved, it becomes difficult to communicate with each other