It is interesting to travel especially as one watching and observes people in new surroundings. I love watching people adapt to different cultures, trying to fit into ways of doing things when one is not quite sure of or does not understand, and discovering how to enjoy new opportunities. The irony is that much of what one chooses is exactly what one would do if you were at home.
An example is breakfast. The Fullerton buffet was full of unusual treats. The waiter preparing fresh vegetable and fruit juices made to order often stood about rearranging fruit trays because there were those who went for their normal canned juice. Incredible Japanese and Chinese breakfast delicacies were left standing as people heading for the bacon, beans, grilled tomatoes, and eggs – something that they always found at home. Even the breads reflected English habits.
As I watched and enjoyed people being themselves a long way from home it was interesting to note those who were following patterns set by others. If they had eggs, I will have an egg. If they went to look but did not touch the fruit, that is what I will do. Are they drinking their coffee black, so will I!
Should we blindly follow the norms of yesterday or those set by others?
“Don’t envy bad people; don’t even want to be around them. All they think about is causing a disturbance; all they talk about is making trouble.” (Proverbs 24.1, 2)
The harsh reality is that we are responsible for our own lives – the values we live, the choices we make, the results of our decisions and actions in the lives of those we touch and live with. We make these choices, nobody else does or can.
Today I am a long way from home. The slate is clear and nobody has fixed expectations. What happens next is up to me. Will it be the norm or something better? Will it be a repeat of yesterday or something new? Will I follow the pattern set by another or establish one for myself?
