I have heard one too many foreigners complain about their adopted country. Granted, for some, being transplanted from a culture to another was not part of their life ultimate goals, but circumstances forced a move from a loved and familiar culture to a different one. However, for the sake of our happiness, it is crucial that we take the necessary steps to adjust to the new place. We owe it to ourselves and to those we love. I think it is particularly aggravating this unethical showing off that says that My country is better than this" (or even worse, "yours"). Europeans are notorious for complaining about the US; Americans are notorious for complaining about any other less affluent place. It feels like one is marrying beneath, but is nevertheless taking good advantage of the relationship with such an inconvenient spouse. I think this is an unethical attitude especially when one is making a good living out of being in the foreign place. It doesnt seem fair. As for me, living in the US has made me one of us. I said this exact thing during my speech when I got my American citizenship years back. Being an immigrant is like having two mothers: one natural and one adopted. Are we going to forget one for the sake of the other? I dont think so, especially because no one is keeping score. Having two mothers has its drawbacks, though, for we find ourselves torn between two lovers. When I am in my natural country, which happens to be Brazil, I love it there, though I know there are way too many things that, because I am living in this country, I quite cant get used to. The same thing happens here. I love it here, though there are way too many things that I cant get used to. This is the predicament of having two motherlands. We are never totally here or totally there. We really dont belong here or there. When we are there, we are somewhat unhappy, because we miss it here; same thing when we are here, we are not as happy because we miss it over there. How can we make amends and feel comfortable in whatever place we are? By adjusting. Certainly there are positive and negative things in both places. The secret is to find a happy balance. To do that, we need to focus on the positive aspects of the place we are at the moment. Only then we will be content enough to enjoy our stay, no matter where. If we cant do this, wed better go home. But, no matter what you do, please, stop nagging. It is unbecoming, unethical, and just plain rude. |
