Hello, lovely humans, and welcome back to T by Tina.
I wanted to further elaborate on the aspects of Germany I love, but a cashier at our local drug store decided to have her panties in a bunch and catch an attitude, so I am currently not fond of Germans. We will instead flip the script and discuss what I miss about the US.
America is known for its convenience. However, some conveniences can be harmful, while others simply make you smile. The cultural elements of America that I miss the most are comfort, social interaction, and medicine.
- Comfort – Air Conditioning
As the wealthiest country in Europe, Germany boasts the most successful economy, with a GDP exceeding 1 trillion euros. The nation is globally recognized for its efficiency and top-notch quality products.
But no air conditioning.
Let me start by saying that Germany is not notoriously known for being “hot.” For example, it’s June right now, and the temperature is about 20 degrees celcius, or 68 degrees Fahrenheit, so the demand for AC is not as high as it would be in Texas. But it DO be getting up to 35 degrees Celsius or 95 degrees Fahrenheit!!!
You know what? I really miss having air conditioning in the US. I mean, I get that it’s not always used in the most environmentally friendly way, but it totally could be if we just used it in moderation. And you know what’s funny? I think Germany should totally get on board with more air conditioning. I mean, you can find it in most German cars (that German auto industry is the best, right?), some stores, and restaurants, but it’s definitely not as common in homes.
2. Social Interaction – Friendliness and Kindness
I’m sure you’ve heard that Germans are cold, but that adjective, like many others, is relative. Not only is it relative, but it is also extremely generalized. Most of the people in my life right now are German, which isn’t surprising because I live in Germany.
My standards for friends, family, or anyone I choose to have in my life are extremely high. This goes to show that Germans can’t all be cold, otherwise I wouldn’t fuck with them.
On the other hand, I must say, there is a massive communication difference between Americans and Germans. As I mentioned in the beginning paragraph, the cashier at our local drug store got an attitude faster than Usain Bolt finishes a 100m race. Mind you, I couldn’t hurt a fly. I can’t even say “no” to people 99% of the time. My point is, even though I do not find Germans “cold,” I still desperately, desperately, desperately miss American friendliness and kindness. Americans compliment random strangers all the time, which, to us, is normal. We engage in small talk with random strangers all the time, which is also normal to us. We, especially the incredible people of Minnesota, go out of our way to help just about anyone and everyone.
American English is constructed to be as friendly as possible, to never inconvenience or offend anyone. The German language, on the other hand, couldn’t care less. It is very direct, does not typically take one’s feelings into account, and can quickly leave you sitting in a pile of tears. After 7.5 years in Germany, I have learned that this is simply how the language is constructed, not how the people are. It’s taken every bit of patience I have in me to not despise the way people speak here, but I’d be lying if I said it hasn’t brought me to tears on many occasions.
I do not mean this negatively towards Germans or Americans. 🙂
3. Medicine – Instant Relief
“Drink some tea and rest.” IYKYK
I don’t know about y’all, but if there is a medicine I can take to feel better, I 100% will.
I’ve realized that I have a very American perspective on seeking medical treatment. When I’ve been sick and visited a doctor in Germany, I’ve often been advised to simply rest and drink tea, instead of being prescribed medication. While I understand the potential long-term benefits of natural remedies, I still prefer the immediate relief that medication provides.
I am aware that the American pharmaceutical industry is horrendous in more ways than I have time to explain, but I still want the option to receive medication when it’s necessary for me to feel better.
Well, that’s a wrap! Thank you for reading, and check me out on Instagram!
This was in no way shade towards anyone!!
