My Observations of America

OK, I know I've promised you (my 3 readers) a disclosure of some of the observations I've made since returning to the United States after having been away for seven months. I'm glad I waited a few extra days -- it's given me a chance to absorb more of what I see.

1. First things first: Americans are LARGE! I have gotten so used to the smaller size of people that are commonly seen in Asia. In general, the people of southeast Asia are 5' 7" or shorter. They also (generally) are proportioned accordingly. By vast contrast, it seems that the average American (male) is 6' 0" and 200+ pounds. I just can't believe how heavy so many of the people I see are. Yes, it was more apparent in Texas earlier in the week, but even here in southern California -- the folks are just (how do I put it nicely?) overweight. Everyone seems to have that "puffy" look to their bodies; moreso than what I see in Asia.

2. Food portions at restaurants are almost grotesquely enormous. What is with that? Seriously, when I received an entree at Pappadeaux on Monday, I thought it was a "family portion" for 3-4 people. I asked the server if he was sure this was what I ordered. Unbelievably, it was. How in the world one person could eat that much food I have no idea. I ate less than half, and even though I am running 4-5 days per week, I know I still can't burn enough calories to justify injesting that feast. No wonder we're looking at an obesity problem in the US.

3. Commercialism here in America is over the top. Everywhere I look there is an invitation to purchase something, rent something, upgrade something. The radio DJ was saying that putting down $200 for a new video iPod was nothing! I see endless ads everywhere telling me I have to whiten my teeth, zap away excess fat, boost my omega-3's, and increase my cardio. Not that Malaysia has anything on the US, but you just don't see such excesses promoted in countries where basic living is simpler. People actually CAN live on less than $10k per year and do just fine -- in other parts of the world. Here in the US doesn't even get you across the poverty line, and the economy is accelerated to the point that basic living probably requires triple the $10k.

4. Everything is FASTER, quicker, sleeker, streamlined, optimized here in the US. I had almost forgotten what a self-check-in kiosk looked like at the airport until I arrived at LAX in Los Angeles on Sunday. Asia doesn't go there yet -- it's all paper tickets all the time. And don't even think of online check-in / boarding passes. Just doesn't happen there. I am blown away by all the conveniences that surround life here. Drive thru Starbucks, online DVD rentals, self-service kiosks at the Post Office!! Life in Asia is far more manual, requires far more time, and forces one to be far more patient. I must seem like a slow poke here because I take a few beats longer to do anything. (Remembering my father ordering dinner at McDonald's comes to mind!)

5. Americans have a low tolerance for delay. Face it, people here are impatient. Whether it be an extra five minutes on the highway or two minutes waiting for the restaurant check, Americans expect service NOW, progress NOW, and action NOW. Not that there is anything wrong with this, because that is one of the cool traits about America that drives our economy to epic performance levels. However, it borders onto the excessive. Would it really be that horrible to wait an extra 3 minutes for the bill at the restaurant? Do you really have to be so annoyed by a delay at the check-out stand at Wal Mart? Hmmmm....

6. The American personality seems brash and almost cocky. I have gotten used to the Asian approach, which is far more reserved, far quieter, far "humbler". I drop into DFW Airport in Dallas, and I see aggressive, fast-paced, business suited entrepreneurs barking into blue-tooth enabled cell phones while cruising through the terminal. Just seems to be way too intense. Of course, I'm sure that's how I am perceived in Asia as well. It's just that now I see the progressing American as one who is running even faster, pushing even harder to drive that business model, get that order, meet that quota. Whoa. Again -- this is a good thing when it comes to maintaining the world's leading economy, but it does move fast and powerfully.

SO that's about it for now. I'm about to head out for my first trip to a Wal-Mart in seven months. Cheryl and the girls have given me a huge list of items to bring back to Malaysia. There are so many things we can't find anywhere (like Press-n-Seal, Visine, or even vanilla extract!). I brought two HUGE suitcases to the US, and am planning to bring them back full. Wish me luck on my Wal-Mart Adventure!!

P.S. I am typing this while sitting on a beautiful Mexican-style deck facing the Pacific Ocean at my San Diego hotel. It's 70 degrees out here, breezy, and not a single cloud in the sky. I am wearing shorts, sandals, and my over-worn tropical shirt. Yes, it is AMAZING out here, and a world of difference from my original homeland (Chicago) where I believe the temperature is about zero right now. Ouch. I'll bottle some of this gorgeous sunshine and send it over. I have to go inside now -- I've been out here for 20 minutes and think I might get a bit sunburned (my pale features will turn a delightful shade of red otherwise!)

P.P.S. It goes without saying, but GO BEARS. Although I will be cheering like crazy, I'm a well-informed fan, and know that this one is nowhere near automatic. Yes, 1986 was a gimme. This one will be tough. Hope for a strong D and a good Rex.

P.P.P.S Please jot down your comments to my American observations. I really would like your feedback. Hope this glimpse into my perspectives has been enjoyable. Thanks!

greg