Same Language, Different Culture

As Mark always says, "It's not bad, it's different." Born and raised in the UK, he learned this lesson a few years ago after making the trek across the ocean to marry my mother-in-law. I'm learning it now and it's not easy.

Even though we speak the same language, (with the exception of a few spellings and a few extra words,) the UK and the US are different countries. That's obvious, just look at a map. But I always considered them very similar, like siblings. Lately, I've realized they're more like 3rd cousins.

Yes, things are "less fast" here, but I think it's more accurate to say that the pace of life is different. For instance, our thermostat was original to the house, so our heating wouldn't turn on. Luckily, it was pretty hot for Scotland and in the low 60's, so we didn't freeze. A repair man came out about 5 days after we sent a maintenance request and he was worth the wait. Not only did he give us an extensive explanation about how our heating system works, he also shared about his family and life. We chatted for about a half hour and then remembered it's polite to offer guests coffee or tea. He kindly refused and left us with his name and told us to please call him if we need anything at all.

We had the pleasure of having lunch on Sunday with the Broem's. Our church service at Trinity ran late due to technical difficulties, (it's a very relaxed environment there,) and we were late. Garrick and I both were a little panicked, but upon arriving, we soon realized this was an all afternoon event. This was no 45 minute Red Robin lunch. We received a full tour of their beautiful cottage, sat down to a cheese board and drinks in the living room,  and a few hours later moved into the dining room and ate a delicious meatloaf and pear supper. After dessert and tea, we left at 6:00 PM. The conversation was encouraging, humorous, and very stimulating.

This slow pace has been emphasized in my life, as I am currently unemployed. Just to give you an idea about the job market here, there are about 80-90 people, (mainly students,) applying for every opening. Now, that will change as school picks up and students realize they don't have time to work, and as stores hire for the holidays. Meanwhile, I have a bit more time than I'm used too, but I am trying to find contentment in my new life.

On Saturday I attended a "Survive and Thrive in Scotland" group for spouses of post-grads. I made my way to one of the many beautiful churches in St Andrews and walked into a little room filled with desserts, coffee, tea, and a circle of chairs. Soon, about 15 women filled the room, strangers. But within 5 minutes, we were friends. We share a very unique bond, and many said that this group has become family. I found out everything from where to find canned pumpkin, to common health care questions, and what to do when homesickness strikes in January. Big surprise, a common observation of almost every newbie was that things just take longer here. And those who've been here a few years just smiled and said, "Yes they do."

Tonight, Garrick has the opportunity to earn some extra cash painting with our neighbor, and I am free to write, clean, and listen to any music I want! (The popular rain/wind combo is going on outside, so I'm staying indoors.)  I'm excited to incorporate a slower pace into my life, and am thankful for learning lessons, no matter how challenging.