I think I have the reason I feel at home in Cambodia. In most respects, it's a country that differs greatly from my homeland of Ohio, USA. Culturally speaking, most manners of interaction are the dead opposite Americans'. Most Americans, that is, except for my family. In my family, there are NO PROBLEMS, and we certainly do not assert ourselves when necessary. Everything in my family's belief system can be attributed to the Will of God, Jesus Christ, Karma, or some combination of these things. Showing one's anger is an absolute No-No; an angry outburst will only get you looked down upon. Absolute politeness at all times, "even if you detest that person" as I was literally told at the age of nine. Don't forget the incessant laughter in the face of things that simply aren't
... read more