The American Culture

I've been intriuged with a blog I've linked and named "A Real Glimpse Into Vietnam." This person has captured the essence of everyday life in Vietnam with colorful photos and stories. It has made me wonder, how do I capture the everyday American life? The Vietnamese culture seems so distinct and interesting in the food they eat and in the jobs they perform.

What is so different about our culture? We are surrounded by excessiveness in so many aspects of our lives, but this excessiveness has allowed us the ability of not only fulfilling our necessities, but others too. One characteristic my cousins in Vietnam complimented on is the honest nature of Americans. They mentioned this after I told them I usually bring my lunch to work. They asked, "where do you put it?" I said, "in the fridge." They asked, "do you put your name on it?" They were surprised that I didn't and that my sandwich would still be sitting there once noon rolled around untouched and uneaten.

Because Americans have more than they need, we are more likely to donate, volunteer, or simply not steal. I think the general mindset and desire is to help others, despite the money-hungry stigma Americans carry (which is true, but it's really true anywhere). If I took photos of the strangers that help me when I get lost on the road or all of the people that donate their time or money for what they believe is a good cause, I think I've captured one major aspect of the American culture.