The first thing that one learns after coming into a different country is that they have to acquaint themselves with the cultural differences of people, whether it is about living or talking or just the habits. Accents are way different as well. I'm friends with people of various cultures, and one thing that I've understood is that one has to accept and respect other's cultures to be friends with them. Their festivals matter, as much as ours do, and should be given equal importance. Plus I feel that the festivals here are fun and welcoming, and I loved participating in some of them.. I managed to get some thanksgiving food at dinner, which was delicious.
I wonder if you'd come from a country where English wasn't spoken if language would be the first thing they have to 'adjust to/acquaint themselves with'. Probably, as if there is a major language barrier, and you can either not understand somebody or express yourself, you won't get a taste of the culture. I feel that you have really expressed a mature view of culture and really 'becoming a part' of your surroundings, and accepting and really appreciating the diversity of the experiences you are having as well as the people with whom you're interacting. That is something that does not come easy to many people and I think that is is of major importance in really appreciating all that life has to offer.
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@Patrick: At first, I was pretty scared. Even though I was frequent in English (being the second language in our hometown), I wondered if I'd be able to communicate well with people here. But it wasn't that hard I guess. I've made a lot of friends, and there is no such difference in the English spoken here and there except for the accents, which I'm getting used to with time. I love being here because of all the new experiences that I'm getting! (ENGR103)
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