So, as many of my classmates have pointed out, it rained quite a bit today. I almost felt like I was back home in Southeast Alaska. Except for one thing: many of the sidewalks and staircases here are made of marble. I was cautious of this fact having slipped down marble stairs in our apartment building a few days ago that were in the process of being cleaned. Well, as cautious as I was, I still managed to slip and fall a few times. No harm done; with the exception of a few bruises and a little bit of embarrassment (someone always seemed to be there to watch me fall), I was unscathed. Well, I was thinking a bit more about these falls, and I realized they could be use as analogy to experiencing a new culture. Having grown up and worked in a tourist town, I definitely do not like acting like a tourist or making mistakes in new cultures. However, making mistakes or missing a custom in a new culture is bound to happen. Today a cashier got frustrated with me because I was having a hard time trying to find the right change in euro coins. Last night, I was so proud of myself for saying "epharisto" (thank you) to our waiter just to be told I need to pronounce it better. Although, I did feel better today when a taverna worker complimented me on the smart way I was carrying my purse (over my shoulder, arm over the opening). Anyways, my point is that when trying to fit into a new culture can be difficult and scary. I feel like treading lightly, like I would on slick marble. I've messed up a few times, just as I've fallen on those slick surfaces. The only thing that matters though is that I picked myself back up and kept walking, I know what euro coins look like now, and I can say "epharisto" correctly. I just need to keep learning as much as I can about this beautiful place. :)
comments:
There are currently no comments.
Post a Comment