August 2, 2024

Friday Open Comments

You could also flee the American presidential elections—or their aftermath—by absconding to Germany, like this British chap did. Why? Because he found Brits like himself too sarcastic and ironic, as opposed to the German way of being tough nuts on the outside, but tasty and nutritious when you crack them open. Or, uh, words to the effect.

Our friend here has found deep insights from living in Germany for years: into himself, his British cultural identity, and the evolving identity of Germany. Sometimes, you have to venture far abroad to gain true appreciation for home, even if you may not love it. It’s hard to love something because of its faults and flaws. Understanding that other places also have faults and flaws—just different ones—is the lasting life lesson.

Is it all the same? Well, maybe we should ask the large communities of expats and exiles from places like Russia, Syria, China, Venezuela, Cuba, and so on.