John 3:16 Be thankful, grateful, patient, charitable, kind, and don’t forget to smile, as it is infectious. God Bless America and Protect Our President and Military!
Japan – O-Soji: A tradition in which students participate in daily school cleaning. It promotes understanding of the effort required to maintain shared spaces, fostering empathy for janitorial staff and peers alike. Also, Omoide & Omotenashi – Anticipating others’ needs – It puts heavy emphasis on hospitality and mindfulness – understanding what someone needs before they even ask. Also, never fill your own glass as it is considered rude. It is better to fill the other guest’s glass first as a sign of respect.
South Korea/China – Seated Greetings & Hierarchy – Honoring Elders – Respect for authority and older generations is woven into daily interactions. For instance, it is a sign of deep respect to offer items with both hands, wait for elders to take the first bite of a meal, or bow slightly when greeting.
Spain/Italy – The Art of Rest and Pause: Rather than just a nap, the siesta is a cultural tradition that prioritizes resting the mind and body and reconnecting with family in the middle of the day.
Some things in other cultures that seem rude here are often quite something different in other worldly places e.g.
Eastern Culture – Belching is a compliment: NOT burping after a meal is considered rude. Belching at the end of a meal lets the host/hostess and chef know that you are stuffed and the meal was greatly appreciated.
Middle Eastern Cultures – Don’t shake with your left hand: In their culture, the hands have very specific duties. The right hand is for eating, drinking, and greeting, while the left is used for bathroom functions and is considered a grave insult. Also, in most Arab cultures, never show the Sole of your shoe; doing so shows great disdain. You would never sit with someone showing them the sole of your shoe, as it is insulting. The shoe is considered unclean, especially the sole, which is why it must be removed before entering places of worship, the home, and other buildings.
China- Slurp our food to express delight: Anything from ramen noodles to laska – you should slurp for all you’re worth. In their culture, it is considered a great compliment to the chef or whoever prepared the meal. It is like saying, “This is absolutely delicious.
Egypt – Avoid the Salt Shaker: Asking is like telling the chef or host that the dish wasn’t seasoned correctly. You may as well have slapped the host in the face and said, “This tastes awful.”
Point to Ponder: We all have heard the saying, “When in Rome, Do as the Romans Do!” It would be polite and respectful to educate yourself on the cultures and traditions of the countries you visit beforehand.
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