Time, therefore, is flexible and is geared to the activity at hand. This attitude is rooted in the past, when only the sun, moon, and seasons were used to mark the passage of time. Many Indian languages contain no word for time as well as no words to denote a future tense. This view of time is radically different from that of the dominant society, for which careful scheduling of activities is important. In that view time is linear and moves at a fixed, measurable rate.
Emphasis is placed on using every minute.
Because of the influence of the traditional view of time, some Indian students may clash with educators when they do not arrive at the appointed hour for class or a meeting. Non-Indians may mistakenly interpret Indians' different attitude toward time as irresponsible. Values Orientation to the Present Attitudes and Behaviors Indians are more oriented to living in the present. There is a tendency toward an immediate rather than postponed gratification of desires. Living each day as it comes is emphasized.