A crazy number of people do, in fact, carry guns. I took a little survey, and I was shocked to hear how many "carry." No judgment, just a bit shocked! And if we don't carry, we probably own one. Or several.
We like to say "Hi". A lot. To strangers, veterans, children. We even, uninvited, may stop and talk to another person's dog. We like our pets—and yours!
Once, when I was in Romania working with street children, I asked one of our leaders what they thought was strange about Americans. They were extremely hesitant and didn't want to answer, but I, being American, pressured them into answering!
They thought it was hilarious, and a bit offensive, that we said hello to everyone we met on the sidewalk. Even strangers. To them, in their culture and many other cultures around the world, they think it's weird. They think we're arrogant—why would everyone you meet want to say hello to you? I'm not sure the hello rule applies to New York City or Los Angeles folks, but in the Midwest, we like to make sure we smile at you – – and we kind of expect you to smile back-- and say hello. Even if you haven't had your morning coffee yet. And, another hint if you visit the Midwest: saying, "Have a nice day" is a pleasing bonus. We may not mean it, but it's what we say.
The Midwest is a great place to raise a family. Sure, we have our share of quirks, expectations, and unwritten rules, but we are a friendly bunch. We probably go to church, and there are a bunch of us trying to live the way Jesus modeled for us. After all, the Midwest is the Bible Belt Buckle, as they say.
My mom was from the South, and I still love the Southern twang. Even as an adult, my mom never called her father dad or father. It was always "Daddy." It was very intimate.
I assume it was The South gave us that precious concoction called Dr. Pepper a few decades ago. We still rise up and call you Blessed. Moon Pies. Relaxed schedules. Obits read on the morning radio station. Country ham. Grits. Pimento cheese.
I have a decent understanding of Asian culture. They are quiet, reserved, and highly respectful. Africa is proud of its heritage and highly hospitable.
Culture: templates for understanding social behavior, norms, beliefs, and customs. It is a slice of society's way of life. Our values and behaviors. You get the idea.
Question. What is the culture around you like? I don't mean your office or workplace. I don't even mean your home. As many of you are aware, one business guru famously said, "Culture eats strategy for breakfast!" Culture is a big deal.
How is your Personal Culture? When I say Personal Culture, I mean that ambiguous, invisible space around you—your aura or vibe that the people around you are receiving?
May I ask you a few questions? This is not a test, just an opportunity for a quick self-eval.
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How do people feel about themselves when they leave your presence? Rushed? Tense? Relaxed? Loved?
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Do the people who encounter you on a daily basis feel genuinely heard? Compassionately seen?
- Do your social media posts set you up to be viewed as The Judge or Social Hall Monitor-- or a considerate human who deeply cares for others? Truth doesn't trump manners—both are expected.
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If those who find themselves in the proximity of your shadow were to start using words or phrases to describe you—what words would be glaringly missing? Any embarrassing omissions?
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Some of us describe ourselves as Jesus followers—and some of us do not…but if you do…does your life reflect The Way of Jesus? Kind. Nonjudgmental. Forgiving. Praying. Truthful without being distasteful. Tolerant (We Midwesterners sometimes don't care for this word. Like many words in the last decade, it has been redefined-- but at its base, it is still solid/needed).
- When people are near you, do they find you to be approachable?
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Am I, right now, formulating an argument in my head as to why I don't like this litmus test?! Pay close attention to this one!
