Cultural differences between Leo and myself? Not really, to be honest. Once we met I had already lived in Thailand for 6 years, so could speak Thai with him, knew exactly what village life as a rice farmer was like, had a decent understanding of family life and obligations, the precepts of Buddhism, the Buddhist holidays / festivals, etc. If anything, I would say it took more effort to make him realize I understood his world view than to actually understand it. Plus he's a pretty open minded and independent individual who is open to learning, so that naturally helped.
As for cultural differences in general? Again, I'd say the largest one is getting over the fact I no longer have privacy, and when people stop me on the street and begin asking questions, not to feel as though they're interrogating me. Instead, realize they're just playing their small role in taking care of the community and ensuring I don't need any help, and everything stays safe and peaceful, etc.
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The other would have been several times trying to offer money to people after they helped me out. For a good while after going blind I would push my boundaries and limitations a little more than I should thinking I could do it on my own, only to get lost and disorientated. Some random stranger would always help me out, and I'd offer money, and most times they would either scowl at me, or very reluctantly take it. Upon getting home and telling Leo the story, he'd always get pissed off at me, and tell me to never offer money like that again because it's extremely rude, and if someone helps, it's just because they want to help.
I guess cooking was maybe another one, but that was easy to solve. Just put chilli paste in everything, and it magically turns delicious in his eyes.
Originally Posted by loki
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