01 Nov A lesson learned today(communication)

Just a lesson learned today. Or I might be in a confusing situation between two different cultures that surround me. In transition of being accustomed to life here in America where people are pretty direct with what they say, I am becoming more pushy and straightforward in communication for good or bad. During the first few days in America, I experienced many situations where I can’t have my voice heard without standing up for myself. People don’t stop talking usually, so I learned to interrupt and say my opinions in such cases. People don’t really ask me how I feel unless they are nice enough. It’s simply because I am expected to talk about myself if I need to. The problem is that I will be unfit to Japanese society if I become the same as Americans do.

 For your information, well, I guess it’s for mine too right now. Here’s a basic manner or the principle of communication at least strictly in Japan. Don’t be straightforward. Don’t talk too much. A thing that matters is to “respect” others. It sounds about right in any sort of communication regardless of culture that respect is important. But what is most complicated is that people choose to respect each other in ways they don’t get to speak of truth. “Respect” is the prime priority, and next is your business. I used to be so fine with this rule despite any inconvenience caused.

Hmm? Yah, it would be very nice if I didn’t forget to respect while talking. But sometimes I think to myself that it is definitely healthy to show feelings even if I sound less respectful. With too much of “respect” to take care, it’s almost impossible to fully express my passion, anger and sadness. Then, what else feeds off excitement in communication other than agreeing and relating to each other? America might have changed me for good or bad.

To be honest, if respect is all about being indirect, I can’t stand it anymore. Masculine styles are a bit too aggressive, but at least I rather want to respect letting each other speak of true feelings if we are friends. Not the “respect” that speaks little honesty.

Yet, I should be able to switch both styles of communication depending on who I talk to for future. I learned a lesson today after being told that I am rude by a couple of Japanese friends XD

It was a little warning to myself. Don’t be”rude” American! :P lol