Quote:
Originally Posted by gmb
I asked a question earlier about moving to NC from Southern Calif and if there would be culture shock and or fairly liberal communities. Many responses mentioned the fact that it will be quite different from CA because it is the bible belt. Well, what does that really mean? Of course I understand what the bible belt is, but what is living in the bible belt really like? Are you looked down on if you don't go to church? I guess I am confused because where I am from you don't talk about religion and we have our fair share of "new age" spiritual people. I imagine living in the bible belt means there are a lot of Christians, but how will that affect me if I am open to anyone's beliefs but just don't go to church? Am I naive to think I can easily adapt to the southern way of life if I wasn't raised in the area? I would love to learn more about it.
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gmb,
I have to put in my 2 or 3 cents at risk of being moderated by the moderators.
"
Many responses mentioned the fact that it will be quite different from CA because it is the bible belt". the individual that penned this response was being very polite to say the least.
In a nut shell - My wife and I have lived in 7 different states (due to various jobs over the years ) and over the last 23 years traveled throughout the U.S. - and by far the most challenging place to live has been in the Southeastern to mid-Atlantic region, notably central N.C. and Northern FL.
I'am sure that a lot of people will disagree, however these have been our experiences:
Religion in the "belt" is quite rampant to the point of it being like a cult. People will try to get you to join their church, while non-church goers are looked down at.
Discrimination certainly hasn't taken a hit either.
Antiquated laws still exist and some are even still enforced.
Want to feel isolated for not belonging or worse yet - trying to be an individual.
Culture shock - no doubt about it. Southern Cal to North Carolina - yow, better be well prepared for it.
The school system is pathetic - I read a few of my sons text books and some of the books didn't have a grasp of the English language.
The "L" word - not from what we experienced. L=Liberal mentality. Have to look in the western states for that one.
Maybe you are adaptable to these conditions. My wife is from the upper midwest and the most adaptable and tolerant woman I have ever known ( she has put up with me for almost 25 years - lol ) but she refuses to even talk about the times that we lived there (around 7 years total).
Maybe you like challenges - fine - give it a shot. I urge you to do your studying about the region before you take the plunge.
I wish you the best of luck.