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This metro area has over 2 million people in it and Mecklenburg is closing in on 1 million. I simply can't fathom the concept they are all marching in lockstep with each other and if you don't learn the proper goose-step and get into the parade with them, then you need to move somewhere else. It doesn't make any sense.
Charlotteborn: I'm not a nudist...but I also make it a point to not vilify the human body to my kids. Human body functions are explained in detail in ways that may make others uncomfortable. So, if you don't mind your kid coming home talking about sperm, uterus, placenta, urethras and what similarities humans have to other mamals, then send them over
Coastalgirl, you make a very valid point - there is nothing wrong with the culture of conformity...if you happen to conform that is. There were so many movies in the '80s about this subject - most of them unfortunately starring Molly Ringwold - the concept should be obsolete by now, no?
This metro area has over 2 million people in it and Mecklenburg is closing in on 1 million. I simply can't fathom the concept they are all marching in lockstep with each other and if you don't learn the proper goose-step and get into the parade with them, then you need to move somewhere else. It doesn't make any sense.
Are you a Clt native? Have you ever lived in a different place - NOT military related. Military bases don't count, imo.
So, let me re-iterate...I have lived in many different cities in many different countries and not until moving to Charlotte, where I expected to NOT encounter culture shock, did I ever feel like I didn't fit in. Even in places where I was in the racial/ethnic minority.
What doesn't make sense is people trying to tell other people that their experience is invalid and preposterous.
There really is a huge wave of opposition to this idea isn't there? Curious that apparently it comes up so much then.
Lily - It would depend on the age of the child how I would feel about your discussing the human body with them. My son is 18 and you would be probably be surprised what he could teach you! If he was only 5 or so, I would probably want him to hear it from me - not my neighbors, etc. If you are 'explaininghuman body functions in detail' to your childrens friends.... WHY? and what is the purpose of doing so?
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So, let me re-iterate...I have lived in many different cities in many different countries and not until moving to Charlotte, where I expected to NOT encounter culture shock, did I ever feel like I didn't fit in......
I'm not even believing you now, and attempting to cast credibility issues against me because you claim to be a world traveler in comparison means I'm probably wasting my time. However,
If you want to see a culture of conformity, then I recommend a trip to Japan. When you get there, you will discover, though they will be very nice to your face that by design you will never fit in. You will openly be referred to as Gaijin which roughly translates to alien or foreigner but in the culture is derogatory. It won't matter if you marry a native, learn the language, and accept the religion, you will never be a part of that society. Apparently you missed this part of the world.
There is nothing even close to this in Charlotte or anywhere else in the USA.
Are you a Clt native? Have you ever lived in a different place - NOT military related. Military bases don't count, imo.
So, let me re-iterate...I have lived in many different cities in many different countries and not until moving to Charlotte, where I expected to NOT encounter culture shock, did I ever feel like I didn't fit in. Even in places where I was in the racial/ethnic minority.
What doesn't make sense is people trying to tell other people that their experience is invalid and preposterous.
There really is a huge wave of opposition to this idea isn't there? Curious that apparently it comes up so much then.
Lily I agree with you completely. I have lived all up and down the East Coast most recently Atlanta...and this is the ONLY place where I feel like I don't belong.
For instance I went to Carowinds last weekend.....and NEVER before in my life have I been called the N word.....but some white people thought it was cute to call me that...saying "damn them n***as trying to take over Carowinds too?!?! WHITE POWER!!" WOW...really?? I lived in georgia for Christ's sake and they don't even do THAT there...
I have always lived in more affluent neighborhoods that just happen to be all white (Forest Hills, NY Prospect Park, NY-early 90s, Alpharetta, ga etc..) so I talk "proper" and like to wear flip flops. But b/c I'm not a thug w/ my pants down to my ankles I am not accepted by black people here in Charlotte. This is the only place on Earth where you can't be yourself and if you are other people wont accept you!! This is the least liberal place!!
I'm glad you posted everything you did b/c sometimes I think I am the only one that feels this way...but I'm glad to know others share my views on Charlotte. If I didn't have family here...I swear I would move somewhere else.
Charlotteborn, I wouldn't explain those things to their friends! That's not my job. But, my kids will know these things and may tell your kids about them. So, as for ethics, an example is that I believe telling your kids things about nature as directly as possible is something that not everyone agrees with.
Lumbollo, I have lived in Tokyo, actually. It was one of places that peaked my fascination with identity in the first place. And while I completely agree with you that Japan trumps the US in this regard, I was prepared for it so new how to handle it...ok, I made a couple (HUGE) gaffes while there, but it wasn't the shock that moving here was.
My question to you wasn't an accusation, it was just a question. No need to be offended.
I am an immigrant to the US since '84, lived all over the country and europe, and visitied lots of other places and have never felt like I do not belong. Currently I live outside Charlotte but again, have not experience that feeling. I am not really sure what you consider a "freak" but I have not felt like one anywhere I have been. I assimilate but do not lose my identity or character in the process. I am still me.
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