Al, somehow we have to draw a line err... somehow (dang! i keep repeating 'somehow' somehow) on what's offensive & what's not as leaning on either extreme is very much undesirable.

imagine if we're extremely politically correct where event a hint of whatever offensive is dealt with severely. too much biting of the tongue.

but then we shouldn't be too free with our words as well. we cannot just blast off our mouths, only thinking of free speech without thinking of the repercussion.

now that's why life is interesting. it's all in the balancing! the ebb & flow of balancing the two when we tango with people from all over the world; when's best to say what & when to shut up.

this thread, personally speaking, isn't offensive because i decide not to be offended by it. those who choose to feel otherwise are free to feel that way.

this thread is good enough to show cultural differences. still, the safeword is TACT. we have to be tactful.

right. back on topic.


Cultural Differences: A Peek At Malaysia

when celebrating major holidays, especially religious-related, we often have 'open-house' which means our houses are open to anyone to come over & we will share food & drink with the visitors.

take for example, christmas. most christians will have 'open-house' & invite family & friends to come over & enjoy what food is offered. & when i say most christians, i mean it from the rich all the way to the poor. even the poor will serve guests at least some syrup drinks & home-made biscuits. those who can afford more will cook some food to be served with rice. it's like full meal served at all times. imagine having full meal at each house & u're visiting at least 10 houses in a day! <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/eek.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/delight.gif" alt="" />

Cleglaw will run out of salt before the 15th house! <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/ROFL.gif" alt="" />

yes, all we do is eat eat eat! <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/delight.gif" alt="" /> the favourite pastime of all malaysians.

anyone can come over. even perfect strangers. we'll welcome all in. what one does is call for the house owners at the gate (should there be one) & greet them with season's greetings (merry christmas for christmas season, Gong Xi Fa Chai for Chinese New Year etc). the owners will then welcome the guests in & serve them food & drink.

celebrations normally last at least a week & for certain homes, even a month! of course it all depends on the budget as well as to whom they extend such extended welcome to.

i hear from my aunts in the US that celebrations are over in a day & often celebrated among family members with a meal & that's it. so much anticipation & done in a day. quite a letdown for asians who are into 'open-houses'. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/tongue.gif" alt="" />

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......a gift from LaFille......