Making friends and influencing people

Submitted by michael (United States), Apr 20, 2008 at 09:04

It's very easy to demonize people you haven't met and don't know. But I would not advise that if you plan any form of travel-- much less if you live in a land surrounded by foreigners. People who meet other people normally pick up the habit of being open and friendly. And they find in most cases that that approach is rewarded. I don't say let your guard down. Every once in a while you'll meet a mugger or a con artist. But the experience of life on earth is much more rewarding if you start with love as opposed to hate.

You seem very certain in your knowledge of the character of ALL Muslims. Is it also your belief that ALL Jews are the same? How about ALL Texans? You point out the fact that the laws are different in different countries. We should be glad we have free choice. A New Yorker would not be happy living under the laws of Alabama. And he doesn't have to live there. Are Americans offended by some of the customs of others? Certainly. I don't like the rumor that Koreans eat dogs. Does that then mean I should hate all Koreans? I don't think so, not until I get to know a few of them. Hindus probably don't like my occasional hamburger either. But most are gracious about it. The same would be the case with my Jewish friends, if I were so rude as to munch a bacon cheeseburger at the table with them. My mother used to say smile more. If you frown all the time it'll make your face hurt.

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