People are people. And I am lucky to know many kind ones.
In general, I believe people to be more good than bad. Even though we might have corrupt desires or broken ways of doing things, we are all made to reflect our Creator. And I see Him daily through those that He’s made. This is my favorite thing about living in a city. And discovering a new culture. Both give me new glimpses into God's revelation of Himself.
I love people-watching. It has always been one of my favorite activities. Somehow it’s even more entertaining when you have absolutely no idea what they’re saying. And here, people behave a little bit differently. There are unspoken rules I’m just getting used to. Like being quiet on public transportation. You must refuse someone’s offer at least three times before giving in and accepting something. Men and women never smile at each other in public. You should call out at the gate every time you come home. I'm learning how the local people do things here.
These unfamiliar behaviors have definitely thrown me for a loop. However, there is more that’s familiar to me than unfamiliar. Mothers giggling with their children. Teenage girls gossiping and glancing furtively at boys. Little kids playing with sticks in the street. An old woman who offered to hold my groceries on her lap so they wouldn’t get too heavy.
These daily kindnesses are God’s grace to me. Regardless of culture, people are people. And people are beautiful in so, so many ways.