Culture Shock 3

I was recently asked how the culture shock was going. I responded that the culture isn't too different so it hasn't been bad. Then I realized that culture shock may be a bit more extensive than I thought.

For example, who knew that my presence would cause others to go into culture shock? I was in my German class and we were doing an activity which required me to write something and the girl I was talking to exclaimed "Das ist dein linkse arm! Schwer! Seeeeeeeehr schwer!" Let's just say, my left-handedness was quite the anomaly.

I also think that my squealing, clapping, and happy-dancing reaction may have been slightly stranger in this country. But seriously: Me. Volleyball. Spike. Point. First time in my life! What else was I to do?

On the other hand, I was shocked to learn that the "good-game slap" among men (you know the one I mean) is not an American thing. It's apparently just a guy thing.

With Valentine's day earlier this week, of course there was culture shock galore. I had been forewarned that this is not so much a German thing, so I prepared myself likewise. However, I was pleasantly surprised. I was greeted by a group Valentine's dinner complete with heart confetti. There I was asked where Valentine's day comes from to which I gave the standard answer of "The greeting card companies." The facial response was... unforgettable to say the least.

I also had a surprise Valentine this year who even gave me a rose. I know I said no younger guys, but he was so excited about the "Blumen!" I will make an exception in this case.

I'm not sayin'; I'm just sayin'.