I've been here a day short of two weeks, and while initially I thought I'd transitioned terrifically in two days, I've now realized it'll take time. Superficially, England doesn't appear to be considerably altered from what I know. However, scratch the surface, and instantaneously there are inCREDible insights into a contrasting culture incomparable to another. Yes, I reckon that's more or less an obvious universal truth; but it seems I usually first seek similarities to ground my feet in foreign lands, and THEN delve into dynamic differences with an incessant inquiring mind.
Speaking of "scratching", I've been doing that to my head a lot and wondering: "why do the English seem overly concerned with fires?" We have weekly Friday drills at my flat, and Monday night I was at an event where we had to re-arrange the chairs three times to free the fire escape! Phrases perplex me sometimes too. In Japan I picked up a decent dose of lingo from British mates, but I'd never heard anyone say "have you a lighter up your bum cause they'll arrest you!" This was shouted aloud by a not-so-sober bystander while I ran by him on the boardwalk this afternoon.
Onto ale, apparently it’s kosher to drink all hours of the day! Pubs have people in them from 8 a.m., and in fact, most of my seminars are immediately followed by further informal chats with pints in pubs! Then, this may disappoint some, but I’ve become more or less a teetotaler. This could have been caused by sipping so much “sake” at endless “enkais” in Japan, and I guess that’s quite alright. Cheese has become my latest vice.
Meanwhile, meandering among the masses I’m hearing SO many languages. And when “espanol” or “nihongo” trickles in, I can’t HELP but to eavesdrop! I know this is ridiculously rude, and at times I’m discovered when I unconsciously answer a query with a quick reply. I’m a hopeless extrovert, always keen to converse, even and especially with complete strangers! It’s those unpredictable instances which often make my day. I love a sassy smirk, unwarranted wink, and raised eyebrows of suspicious surprise!
Finally, for all you savvy Skypters, I’ve finally joined up. I’m Elise54321 so save me to your contact list. Please send your details as well! Cheerio then, I’m off.
