Culture Shock in America

I've been wanting to make a list of things that are new to me when I arrived in the US. Culture shock is not an unusual occurrence in someone's life when they visit a foreign country. I'm willing to share my experiences here. I know that comparing the Philippines (a third-world country) from America (a first-world country) isn't a wise thing to do as they are too different from each other in many aspects. However, we can't ignore the cultural differences between the two countries. I won't criticize the differences in any of the countries rather commend the positive ones and be more understanding with the ones that aren't pleasant to follow.

America is the first foreign country that I've been to and there are things here that I wished the Philippines implemented. I will tell you beforehand that there are hundreds of laws, rules and restrictions here that I find ridiculous and there are some that I'm glad they have here. I believe that without laws, a country is doomed to a more chaotic system. People are disciplined and the system is organized if a country is strictly implementing laws.

It's just funny when they claim America is the land of free that has hundreds of laws, rules and restrictions! No wonder people break them as they are free to do it. Never condone it, though! It is said that people in America break laws in a day. They don't get arrested to some of them, pay fine when get caught or just get away with it. However, I commend how the country is organized (especially the traffic laws) and most of the people are disciplined.

So, here are some of the differences that I observed living in the US for 2 years. Be reminded that I asked my husband for clarification and a more detailed explanation about a certain law and tradition.

Yuchae Moon
28Jun2021