Lol, I just had to say this because it’s too darn funny to keep to myself. I’m currently in a serious relationship with a Punjabi man, and while we don’t really have any issues dealing with cultures or anything, and his parents, while his mother’s English could use work (but she’s incredibly sweet, and tries her hardest to talk to me), this is just so funny. I was to the part where they said that one thing they can’t stand is the tidiness issue. I think that maybe, as American’s we’re not as tidy or something, because that is the only thing that always got my fiance’s mother annoyed about me. We lived with her for awhile, and while I clean up, she is EXTREMELY tidy. I mean, I wouldn’t have thought of little things that she did that she always pointed out. I have actually found it as a good thing though, because now I’m much better at the tidy-ness. Though, :/ right now my table has like a whole bunch of notebooks, and a bottle of water, and various coins and stuff scattered on it. :/ Cleaning=no fun.

Just wanted to say…awesome blog…and also it’s very nice to get a perspective from Parents:)

Mvh,
Indro

A special tip for you only!

As you are in a relationship with Indians, I would suggest adopting this facet of Indian relationships, in order to deal with Indians better.
Indians are usually curious folk, and they like getting to know each other well. Thus you should show;
genuine concern, asking about each other, caring and the warmth .
Short point: “Ask Questions about the other person, and show curiosity, because Indians do so as a matter of routine”

I have a lot of American friends, and almost all of them are amazing at talking about what they are upto….and leave it to me to continue the conversation we are having , by asking them questions and giving my comments. They hardly ask me stuff, but enthusiastically validate what I say.

Much love,
LF

so i would like to ask u sum ?
hope to hear from u

If you’re talking about the Puritans, weren’t they escaping religious persecution? In which case, willingness wasn’t much of a factor.

It is true that Americans are far more mobile than the rest of the world – it’s actually a great strength of our economy, as it means that people are willing to move to where there’s work (smoothing out recessionary cycles), even if it means leaving family and friends behind. In some ways, I see this mobility & independence as primary features/facts of American culture – after all, a willingness to pick up all your roots and leave your homeland was what determined this country’s initial settlers, and every wave of immigrants since. This sort of ethos fits well with my personality, but I can understand how it’s not for everyone.

1. People from Texas—yes, hospitable, but brutally direct. Get along with them easily. Not very likable sometimes. Very macho sometimes. Little concept of “face”.
2. People from the northeast—wayy better in terms of relationships than Texans. Friendlier in some ways.
3. People from the midwest—I dont know why, but I get along best with people who are culturally from this region of the US. More down to earth, a little more conservative etc etc. Likable.

One of the things I just dont get, is that a lot of people just forget about you when you move …the impermanence of relationships is fascinating to see, especially contrasted with the whole every person has a place in society feeling that India gives me.

All the best!
Cheers,