CULTURAL SHOCK or returning to Russia after the US / Why Russians don't smile?

[@craigh.9810]

As an American, I don't feel the smile to strangers is fake. It's just a way of being polite and friendly to others. We are raised that way.

[@whereswaldo5740]

Were. The mask is killing it. And those that promote it. All of them.

[@alhamilton1826]

Same. Asking "how are you?" is not just a greeting to everyone. Some of us actually do care and want to know that you are well. To me, small talk is not something I feel obligated to do. If I like someone, I show them that I am pleased to see them by stopping what I am doing and acknowledging their presence. The conversation is not the point. Its the attention and gift of time that matters.

[@johnmarcinko2484]

Being raised in the American South, I was raised to be at least sort of open and friendly until the other person gives me a reason not to be so.

[@marvindoolin1340]

@@whereswaldo5740 But wearing the mask will let us and those we love live to smile again. Refusing just prolongs the necessity. And, believe it or not, people can still interact while wearing masks. Our lips aren't the only signal that matters.

[@Uns46]

@@whereswaldo5740 the smiling culture in the US is due to the economy relying on the service industry. Yes most manufacturing jobs are outsourced. So what's left for Americans to do are service based jobs, which requires smiling as part of their occupation requirement. You can see retail sales person smiling at you and talk shit behind your back as soon as you leave. That means the smile was not authentic, but a tactic to make you buy their product.

[@Marva123]

You were in Minnesota, if you were living in Mississippi or Louisiana people will tell a complete stranger their entire life story. That would have been a real culture shock

[@jaspertanner3463]

Agreed. In my experience, that also applies to most of Texas, Kentucky, Tennessee, West Virginia, Virginia (except near DC), North Carolina (except Raleigh and Charlotte), South Carolina, Georgia (except Atlanta), Alabama and Florida (except Orlando, Tampa and Miami).

[@badlandskid]

MARVA too Damn cold in Minnesota to talk for that long. 🥶

[@Harsh-ep6ls]

Dude come to India, people here would tell you all about their existence.

[@jimp925]

Don't cha know!!!

[@unkn0wnpers0n]

So true

[@pamelagraeter5017]

A smile also means “I see you” it’s an acknowledgment. You are not invisible.

[@hopefletcher7420]

So true! One more covid problem is that people can't see your smile through the mask.

[@joeh858]

A real smile occurs naturally. You don't have to think about doing it. It just happens.

[@jakemon4550]

​@@joeh858 Not true I very rarely smile even when I want to unless I force it everyone is different. I smile a lot as an American, I see it as a cool part of our culture even if people don't always mean it, if you give them a genuine smile and compliment you will see them actually smile, a fake smile is only a small step away from a real one.

[@joeh858]

@@jakemon4550 uhhu

[@AnnaIsHere]

As a russian, I find this comment interesting:) If you ever go to Russia, please know that even if I don't smile, I probably still see you, just don't want to bother you by -in a way - intruding into your personal space.

[@opheliasoto902]

Hi Natasha, I really enjoyed your video. Thank you for sharing your experiences. I am a Native American Indian born and raised in California, just north of San Diego. I am one of those Americans that smiles and talks with everyone I encounter. I never realized how odd that was to people from Russia. My mother used to say "smiling is a contiguous happy moment you share with other people." Keep smiling Natasha 🤗

[@nickaustin8334]

I'm English and had an American friend. It took me some time to understand that "what's up?" just means "hello" and I didn't need to tell him what was up.

[@ViceroyoftheDiptera]

Well England has 'you alright?' as an equivalent.

[@darrenjones2933]

German has Wie Gehts and hopefully I'm not wrong.

[@ericbrandon8699]

Can’t understand why it would take you some time to understand “what’s up” 🤷🏻‍♂️What’s up with that?

[@funateighty]

@@ericbrandon8699 I am an 88-year old American. "What's up?" is still unfamiliar to me! I rarely hear it because I am not among young people in a casual way, like passing an acquaintance on the street. When I was in college in the early 50's(!!), I had to get used to passing a lot of former high-school mates. The standard greeting would be, "Hi! How are you?" As with "What's up", you would surely not start telling anyone how you were. You could just repeat, "Hi, how are YOU?" The answer would be nothing; greetings were over as you walked on, or, sometimes, like now, just "Fine." I am still, after years of hearing the response, "Good." or "I'm good" feeling a little repulsed by it (That's too strong. Can't think of a better word right now.) "Good" refers to your behavior. You are a good person. Of course I do not show my dislike of that answer; I just respond, for myself if asked, "I'm fine, and you?" or "Fine, thanks" It's enough. My favorite response, is "Great!" no matter how I feel. And that does make me truly feel better. (Aside: I'm asking myself why I am writing an essay when no one will read it anyway, or should they do so, I will never find the response. Oh, well. I enjoyed sharing ...or not ...my thoughts. It took my mind off into just this moment, nothing more.)

[@Sky9ine]

I'm American, 32, and still not used to this😂

[@sugarbomb26]

I'm a British/Indian Londoner who has lived in the USA, (close to NYC), for 20 years now. I absolutely love the fact that American's are so friendly. At first, I was shocked that you could be walking down the street and a passer by will say 'hi'!! I have become just like them and I believe it has enriched my life immeasurably. I never pass by someone without saying hello or asking how they are. In fact many people that pass my house and see me gardening, have become good friends. This is a magnificent characteristic of the American people and I think they genuinely want to know how you are. It does not feel fake to me at all:)

[@RalphDratman]

@Dale Hemme You give away your agenda when you mention George Soros, a Jewish man who has nothing to do with the political agenda of US broadcasters. Nevertheless, I think your comment has merit because I sometimes find myself surprised to see how well people seem to get along after all the discussions of racism. This is a complex topic. The behavior that characterizes it can be hard to see. A woman used to come to our house to help us take care of my 99-year-old mother for a few hours a day. She related that when she brought her children along -- as we encouraged her to do -- no taxi would take them from the train station to our house. We liked this woman very much, and we had fun with her children when they came along. But the taxi drivers, to mention just one example, would not carry them as passengers!

[@zguy95135]

@Dale Hemme agreed, it’s not reality. Of course discrimination exists but in real life it’s quite rare and often comes from police (which is not representative of the population). As a non white person who’s traveled through the south multiple times (and all over the US) they’re much nicer and hospitable than people are here in CA.

[@allatgoddess8961]

You must be living among European Amers- certainly NOT among Asians. I've tried that, & nothing!

[@music4thedeaf]

@Dale Hemme wait so your saying america has never had a racism problem?

[@russellnewton6660]

It’s a London thing, or any big city.

[@toomanyrahuls]

Russia sounds like an introvert's paradise.

[@Tortuosit]

Looool. Russia, I'm cooooooooooming....

[@diane9247]

Haha! I'm an American with a lifelong Russian expression on my face. I actually had to learn to smile at strangers, because if you are working with the public that's what you have to do! I was always embarrassed by my mother, who was an extreme version of the smiley American. 😀😄🤪

[@Spetet]

@@diane9247 Yeah, I always think I'm smiling and then I look at the photos and I'm not...

[@richardrogers2110]

Introversion is not the same as being anti-social.

[@dogetothemoon223]

@@Spetet Very true. People do not get it but it is true.

[@whimsical82]

I’m Canadian, we are generally happy and even too polite by most other countries’ standards. We can literally spend minutes holding the door open for others, or apologizing for the most minor things. Go to a grocery store with us, and if walk in front of someone to get through an aisle, “sorry”. If you get in front of the shopping cart by accident, “sorry”. Also see, “it’s all good”, “no worries”, “have a good one”, “cheers”, and tons of talk about the weather 🤣❤️

[@williambenson6318]

Canadians are famous for being endlessly polite and apologizing for things beyond their control! "Sorry that it's so cloudy today. Eh!" Welcome to Canada.

[@OtherSideOfTheFence]

Omg, [Letchworth state park New York.] Canadians....So good looking....SaR'è : )

[@caelachyt]

The smile isn't fake. It's a gesture of goodwill.

[@hunterm9]

It's fake in that it doesn't mean the same thing as a "normal" smile. Not in that it's not meant well or anything

[@uhinger]

Everything becomes worthless if it's done inflationary

[@caelachyt]

@Elated Thumbs - Yes, I think "superficial" may have served her better in her description of what she meant. While the smile in this case is likely a sincere expression of friendliness, the sentiment is probably not deeply held. It is in this case largely a courtesy. A smile can cover a lot of ground expressing friendliness, tenderness, affection, amusement, silliness or even enmity. She does well with English as a second language, but probably needs more experience with it to appreciate some of the nuances. My purpose in commenting was to explain to some perhaps less experienced with English what the true nature of the gesture is.

[@caelachyt]

@@uhinger - Courtesy is not worthless.

[@dougb70]

in terms of "fake", the real question is does the smile lead to feelings of happiness or does the smile reflect feelings of happiness? Americans are optimists, we hope for the smiles to lead to mutual feelings of happiness. In that sense, it is genuine. However, we do fake it sometimes. Especially when we've not yet had our morning coffee. amirite?

[@InGratiaDei]

I was at an intersection one warm day with my windows rolled down. I let out a good sneeze, and a Brothuh two cars over belted out a robust, "Bless you!" I had no choice but to be blessed. Made my day.

[@I-am-EmJay]

I worked in a call center and the person next to me sneezed loudly... the person I was talking to said "Well bless someone" so I turned to my co-worker and said -"my caller says bless you"" -Both of them laughed and I know my coworker smiled the rest of the day! She'd chuckle and mutter something about being blessed by a caller. And I smile now when I think about it!

[@tjairicciardi9747]

The honesty in these videos is priceless

[@agemo82561]

That's a fact. We need more people in the World like Natasha

[@svarog8253]

but its still her own prespective...

[@you-know-who9023]

Very true and her attitude is excellent 👍

[@oktan375]

✌👏👏👏👏👏bravo

[@clarkd1955]

Many people (including me) actually do care about the wellbeing of total strangers. I talk to strangers all the time. I have no idea how they will react and although sometimes it isn’t pleasant, most times it is at least interesting. I care, really. No fake! Cheers from western Canada. PS I love politeness.

[@Branko353]

It's very important for me to leave person I interact with in a happier state then before. Especially people such as cashiers and customer service staff who work hard all day dealing problems most of the time. I approach with a smile so they can relax for a bit every now and then. And it is genuine because I truly think my problem is not worth their frustration. From mid Canada.

[@andyreznick]

Good manners are the grease on the wheels of civilization.

[@a00141799]

Bless you brother. Its wonderful to know that there are people who feel like you. 💙💙💙 Rich in Seattle.

[@babsbeck192]

My grandmother was from Eastern Europe & I recall her saying "Americans smile too much."

[@jeffdelaney8934]

When my parents visited Eastern Europe they noticed no one smiled. This was 1970. They thought their lives must be miserable.

[@AnAZPatriot]

When I was in Denmark winter before last I had a Dane tell me that I smiled too much. I asked her "Compared to what?" ...as I smiled at her.

[@karenschafer2827]

I was showing a Hungarian friend pictures of my son’s wedding and there was one of me, my husband and daughters surrounding the bridal couple. My friend asked me why we were all smiling!

[@CL-mp4vn]

@@jeffdelaney8934 That was back in 1970s, how about now ? I think they still don't want to smile. I would love to smile to people even with the mask on This 👉😷 but actually this 👉 😊

[@kathryndirocco3048]

Thats so funny. 🤣

[@julierauthshaw8556]

You were fortunate. They don't call the American Mid-West "The Heartland" for nothing. People actually are friendly and happy to help you, and for the most part, their smiles are genuine.

[@anthonymitchell8893]

Your media aren't honest they lie through their shiny porcelain ed teeth ha ha

[@julierauthshaw8556]

@@anthonymitchell8893 it's not the media, son. This is from actual personal experience. And as for our teeth, we have to pay cash for our dental work. What is your excuse?

[@ramonalfaro3252]

I moved to Texas from Los Angeles. Very pleasant surprise to have strangers smile AND wave hello as you drive by. I will add though that in The Great California Central Valley (mostly rural) and surrounding foothill towns are loaded with very friendly people. In general the people who live in large cities are guarded and as you get closer to rural areas the people will be much friendlier. At least that's my experience.

[@ViceroyoftheDiptera]

Is that before or after they show you their gun?

[@anthonymitchell8893]

@@julierauthshaw8556 oh sent you salty ha ha you also have to pay for every medical procedure under the sun I'm glad I live in a civilised country

[@LeeBv9983]

About 15 years ago I was doing consulting work for a highly specialized company near Washington. One of the clerical staff was a young Russian woman (her Russian husband had a job with a biotech company). Olga was very efficient, very dedicated. As almost all the work the company did was for foreign countries the staff spoke many different languages, and Olga was hired because of her native Russian. The receptionist was a Latina who was very gregarious and outgoing. Another clerical staff was a young Japanese woman studying at a local university. Anyway, one day Olga asked the owner of the company why, when the receptionist was away, she was never asked to take that position. He said, "Olga, you're a great worker and a really nice person. But any clients that come in will think this is the worst place in Washington to work because you always look like your mother just died."

[@ssjwes]

Thanks for the story. I worked at a place that the front office lady was so friendly people actually liked calling us because they got to speak to her. Just hearing her voice put a smile on your face. You could tell she was smiling THROUGH the phone!

[@sirrathersplendid4825]

@@ssjwes - Too true. One of the first things you learn when working in radio is that people actually see you smile when you talk.

[@willisteccanella7567]

So you have to smile to sell, the product or yourself, to make your life easier. We are so accustomed to It, but our smiles are most of the time fake, a psycological program.

[@sirrathersplendid4825]

@@willisteccanella7567 - Its very hard to fake a genuine smile. People are not stupid - they can see right through fakery. Sometimes when you’re tired you have to fake a little, but if someone smiles back that fakery quickly switches to become real.

[@PilotVBall]

LOL

[@anankedos]

Lol how true! When I moved to the US from Russia in the ‘80s, my face literally hurt for a while from having to smile all the time, especially at school. My facial muscles had to readjust. You’re right about the perception of sincerity as well. It took a long time to shift perspectives.

[@Spudeaux]

I know a girl here in Florida who's Russian and apparently adopted America's smiling culture. She said because of how smiley she's gotten, every time she goes back to Russia to visit family, people now think she's a tourist!

[@isldain7258]

😂😂🤣

[@maryparent9573]

Lol

[@bowrudder899]

That's funny.

[@springfauna1465]

😂😂😂❤️

[@dididiiia]

Lol 😂

[@yiyangdallaird2134]

Interesting how much I can relate as a Chinese that’s lived in the US for 10 years. Ever time I visit China I experience the same reverse culture shock. Chinese people don’t smile at strangers either and I think for some of the same reasons you mentioned why Russians don’t do it. But if you smile at them you’d usually get a smile back, at least that’s my American husband’s experience. I remember one time I had to take a photo for my Chinese ID, and I was smiling at first while taking the photo, just like I would in America. But the Chinese government employee who was taking the photo scolded me to not smile, LOL. I was so shocked why I wasn’t allowed to smile… Here in the US I can smile as much as I want when taking photos and no one stopped me… As for the American people and friendliness, I absolutely love it here! I really love that people are so kind, polite, sweet, happy, and genuinely wanting to help. I love my new country!

[@seansilva_1996]

Im from Texas and I didn't smile in my drivers license photo and every time I get carded, they always ask "were you mad that day?" lol

[@Bob31415]

Glad to have you here. Health and happiness to you and your family.

[@fjgjgkgkjhkfkfkfkf1472]

Pues para un latinoamericano, los estadounidenses y europeos no sonríen tanto, son fríos y no son para nada fraternos... Todo es cultural

[@Banmuyuan]

If you smile in your ID photo, do you also smile every time you pass the subway photo identification check? It's better for your ID to be your normal expression.

[@jss61]

@@Banmuyuan Not a bad thing to have a smile be your normal expression is it?

[@AMorgan57]

You're a sweetheart, and sweethearts lighten up the world everywhere.

[@HeyhitmeBAM]

Down boy

[@iliaperez7290]

Yo what are u 50 Jesus

[@mguarin912]

@@HeyhitmeBAM 😂

[@mguarin912]

@@iliaperez7290 So what if he is. That’s a genuine complement and truthful statement. Grow up, lol.

[@jack72379]

Soy boy

[@MrFlazz99]

As an Englishman (so half way between American and Russian...), I think the smile factor is as you suggested: in the American midwest, people are nicer because they are less stressed than in New York city. This is probably true in most countries - I live away from the larger cities and away from the south-east of England (where life is extremely expensive), so life in my area is less stressful and people are more friendly. In London, it is very different. Worrying about the cost of living can dominate your mood. As for possible fakeness, maybe it is fairer to say that people are automatically 'nice' - in the same way as we think of Russians as automatically 'grim' - it is just a programmed state of mind. When you smile at another person, you don't feel bad and maybe they feel good, so there is nothing to lose. Even so, some people are naturally less outgoing - like me - so perhaps when I smile I mean it more genuinely than the average person. This might be related to British weather (!!) which is 99% grey. When I visit a sunny country, I am happier. When you leave Russia again, I suggest you visit as many other countries as possible. The world is not just Russia and the USA (and China).

[@mgwaite10]

Yup we are mid scale !

[@honkhonk8009]

Not really. Its not really beacuse of stress. You usually know people in those small communities and eventually it feels as if everyone's basically a friend lol. In cities like NYC, you see a metric shit ton of people normally, so you dont feel as much "community" as you normally would.

[@lucidny1]

I'm from NYC and was dating a Russian woman in the late 90s who was in the USA as an art teacher. She and I met at a party and we were quickly attracted to each other and we started dating immediately. We were on the way to the park one day and we bumped into this couple visiting from Colorado. They both smiled at us and started a conversation asking for some advice as to restaurants in the area where they can have a quick snack before heading to the theatre. The encounter lasted about 15 min with me giving some suggestions of where they can go for a quick bite and some small talk about other things they can do in the city. My Russian girlfriend was mostly listening and smiled here and there throughout, but after we parted ways with this couple from Colorado, she turned to me and asked me if I've met them before. I said no and she looked at me like I was crazy hehehe.

[@anthonymitchell8893]

I'm britis

[@kgs2280]

I’m also American, and that’s one of the things I love about Mexico. Many people there are llike that. I have had many wonderful and interesting conversations with complete strangers all over their beautiful country.

[@anthonymitchell8893]

She was attracted to your fat . wallet maybe ?

[@taqueriajerseycityfoodie6296]

that's why she left you

[@simmer484]

That reminds me of a Polish woman I used to live with in the UK. She used to complain that her English colleagues were "obsessed" with what she did at the weekends. It was a total culture clash. Monday mornings most British workers will ask you what you did at the weekend as small talk.

[@Apashiol]

I'm Irish and we too are very sociable and talk with strangers easily. I went to Warsaw with a Polish friend and he felt he had to warn me not to smile at people, or be friendly to strangers. It's a big change to Ireland. We have a joke that in Ireland every road has an old man who waves to everyone who passes, whether he knows them or not.

[@giddingsrocks]

In America we call that old waving man, the country. Everyone in the country side will wave to you, especially if they're old. 👋😊 Ireland sounds wonderful. I hope to visit there one day.

[@christschool]

Considering how many Americans are of Irish descent, I'm not surprised by this at all.

[@TheSulross]

I live full time in a suburban area relatively close to a major city, but have another place that is very rural, very far away from big cities and there we pass each other on the country roads and wave, even if are perfect strangers. Is that way where I grew up too, so I really like this back country area because its still that way

[@millier.206]

I’m from the south in USA and I remember when I was a little girl and my grandpa waved at another man driving down the road. I said, who was that, Papa? And he said “I don’t know”. And that’s how I learned the country wave 😂😂😂

[@ohmightywez]

As an Irish American, we are still the same way. lol. But I will say we share the superficial topics, the deepest secrets of our souls stay locked up deeply and you don’t get to see that unless you earn it. My experience of Russian and other Eastern Europe people is that they don’t chat and make small talk but if you are lucky enough to earn their friendship you can have no more affectionate or loyal friends.

[@jumpda5]

I am Russian and I like the fact that all countries have different mentalities and people behave differently, which makes the world diverse and interesting. I've lived in Japan, for example, and they don't smile either. Only the service staff smiles there

[@alexdenisov7912]

Согласен)

[@guapelea]

Smiling is a cultural thing, after all. But this nice girl is telling it affects her personally, emotionally, and that is very interesting, (to me at least)

[@rust44]

I think all countries outside of North America and some other western countries are like that.

[@askar8078]

@@rust44 cuz they don’t have weed🤪🍀

[@jeroen2218]

@@rust44 In Western Europe it is very common to smile to everyone.

[@edwinholcombe2741]

As an American I had similar experiences. My job transferred me to Hong Kong and I already had a functional level of the Cantonese language. On one of my first few days I was in a bank facing the entrance door. A guy abruptly entered the door and I looked up to see. My eyes locked with the guy's eyes. I gave him a polite smile and returned to filling out forms. I was aware that people around me were looking at me suspiciously. One person asked the guy if he knew me and why did I smile at him. He said he didn't know me and maybe I was some kind of pervert. Nobody realized that I understood what was said but I thought "Can't these people recognize a civilized polite smile". Later I realized that people of Hong Kong just don't smile at strangers. They can't. It is just too crowded to smile at everybody who crosses your path. Later I transferred to the Philippines where every one smiles at everyone, everything all the time - more than the Americans. Anyone who doesn't go around smiling all the time is considered a deeply emotional troubled person.

[@lanieaguisanda6221]

You can even study the kind of smile , , I'm a pilipina, , smile is our tagline as resilient happy people, ,. We don't plant grudge

[@TheGtk444]

Love this girl, wise beyond her years. God bless you, young lady.

[@Tomvaneester]

seconded

[@user-hd1qx2bd1r]

Yah, that's just what I thought too, very mature and intelligent, hope she goes on to great things!

[@michaeltaylor5451]

She has a Patreon and PayPal link in the comments. Let her know how much you appreciate her.

[@user-hd1qx2bd1r]

@@michaeltaylor5451 Thanks! Good to know.

[@MelodusDethicus]

Yeah, unlike some people we can find, she's gained some perspective because she doesn't live in a bubble. An exchange program is a really great way to see the world through a different lens.

[@mississippisnowplow]

I’ve always heard that it takes more muscles to frown than to smile. I grew up in Mississippi and my dad smiled everywhere he went. It wasn’t fake at all, he genuinely loved people. I’m glad I inherited his attitude and I raised my sons the same way.

[@nepashas]

must be awesome to have a dad like this, or at least having one at all)

[@mississippisnowplow]

@@nepashas I was blessed. He was also a dad to my friends who didn’t have a dad.

[@davejones5747]

Wanna see one difference between the US and the the U.K.? Ask each where a frown is seen. Americans will usually say it’s the mouth. Brits say it’s the eyebrows. Technically the Brits are correct.

[@sunnyrain8403]

ughhh I wish I had a US smile.. I'm from Ukraine and I have a very mean looking face and smiling or moving eyebrows too much makes my head hurt so I have to massage my face.. Not when I'm happy tho, then I can smile all I want

[@timmah7874]

I have a coworker like that, he's a deacon at a church and is just genuinely a nice guy. I'm an agnostic but if there were more "Brother Jeremy's" out there, I'd likely have stayed longer when I went.

[@Lisa-pb3qp]

I just have to say your English is almost perfect. What a lovely girl. So thoughtful, beautiful and sweet. 🌸 America gained so much for having you in our country. Wishing you and yours well.

[@danielkoester8147]

That's for sure

[@информациясовсехсторон]

What a nice comment

[@dizzyology7514]

I agree. You seem to be a vary natural, friendly person and I'm glad your time in the U.S. helped to unlock your warm smile. You give something to us in the States, too -- more understanding about what life is like in Russia, something we know very little about. Thank you for that!

[@jcmoraesjc2619]

Bonjour, beautiful! North Americans say that Brazilians smile and hug people too much, why? Veja is very common in Brazil a couple is hugging and kissing next to other people waiting for the bus or subway; you can watch people in cars at traffic lights kissing in the car, I've done this myself several times in the car; I wonder if the Brazilian people are bad characters and naughty about kissing in public... I'll take a break, understand!{ I had a co-worker who came from Morocco, Marrakech - Africa; at a company celebration party an employee hugged his wife and kissed her on the head... He was her colleague but his reaction was super aggressive with his wife, the boy apologized but had done nothing wrong for him to be so aggressive: It was just a hug and kiss on the head representing friendship and respect for her! He the Moroccan was only 1 year and a half in Brazil}. The religiosity of Brazilians, the economy, life and their social heritage gives the people a different face from other countries in America. Carnival and all Brazilian parties are different in terms of seasoning and values, for example: There are Brazilian songs that are prohibited in the USA, but it is allowed to buy guns in the USA; in Brazil it's a crime and gives you 15 years in prison if you're caught with guns (Numbers of children killed in Brazilian schools - ZERO! In the USA there are three attacks a year! Carnival has beautiful women with exposed asses and breasts, sexual freedom, homosexual marriage, Angels and Demons... But there is a beautiful expression that says: Living in Europe is beautiful and sublime but life sucks!Living in Brazil sucks but life is beautiful and wonderful! Americans say that Brazilian women are beautiful and prostitutes... I'm in a stage of life that if you told me that 2+2=10, that's fine! It's not my problem, it's your problem! If they are prejudiced, envious, cowardly and ignorant it is their problem and not mine, it will only be my problem if I agree! For example: My aunt and my mother's sister is a prostitute; she had been sick for a week and my mother went to help her sister not to miss the trade point. My mother is not a prostitute, my mother is the surrogate! Whore is my aunt... People have to survive. The truth has the face of those who observe them! Joseph spent a year and three months building the tomb of King Herod, Joseph father of Jesus Christ was 40 years older than Mary mother of Christ. Let's look at the facts - More than a year without making love to the wife! Mary is right, the man who does not take care of what he has leaves for others to eat, a point for Mary Mother of Jesus Christ. Every person is free to believe in anything, even flying saucers, why not! Life is short, the best thing in life is to live! That all Brazilians already know very well... The rest of the world makes war and we go to the beach to surf and love, amen! God is inside you and not outside! When humanity awakens to this reality, all wars, prejudices and religions will be just cancerous rubbish for people's control. God cannot fight himself since you have God in your heart! Evil is the absence of God in your heart! Kisses and hugs.

[@jamesmcclane9333]

Exactly!!

[@MrAnimal1971]

I love this. Thank you for making this. I did a little social experiment one time at an office i worked at... I had to walk past alot of others to get to my desk. The mood in the office was not good, no one smiled. I decided to say "good morning" every morning to each person as i passed their desk, for a week. It was awkward at first because no one was expecting it but the mood became happier after a few days. It was very cool to see how infectious a little kindness was. I even became happier myself because i made others smile. After the first week i stopped saying anything's each morning. One person stopped me and said " wheres my good morning" ? I stopped, smiled and said "good morning" and we both instantly were happier. So I continued the " good mornings" because it made me happier to make people smile. I learned this ... one person can make a very large impact on other peoples day with one simple act. I have not gone back to my introverted self. That was 10 years ago.

[@Graham_Wideman]

Well done!

[@brianmooney2654]

Hi Natasha. Your English is amazing. Pronunciation excellent. I came to New Zealand from Canada back in the 69s on a world adventure and stayed. New Zealanders are very friendly and have the ability to small talk so pick up conversations easily. I try and be extra polite with people serving me and have a bit of fun with them too. Makes both our days. Also most people thank bus drivers when leaving the bus even at the back. I hope you can come and visit New Zealand one day. The people are nice and the scenery spectacular.

[@cherieveazey4193]

Smiling in the US to strangers is friendly, but also reflects back to you that we see you as having value, shows respect and love to strangers.

[@cyberbird451]

No, the US is the land of fake everything, including smiles. I'm not saying they're all self obsessed narcissists...but most of them are.

[@RusnakAutoDesign]

I have to agree, In the US a smile is the first encounter where you can say whether or not a friendship can happen. Out of all my neighbors, the only one I do not have a decent relationship with is the one that did not say hi back or smile when I extended an invitation of dialog.

[@riffraftmusic8669]

A smile takes effort. I have a homeless friend who was given probably over $100 in the days around last Christmas (2020) by maybe 10 or more strangers. Americans who are generous are often so because they understand/believe that Nature has given us everything we need for life and happiness, and want to return the favor by helping out their neighbors which Nature has also created. However, some are not aware of this and may smile for other reasons. Another video of yours shows gardens and lawns put in by the owners of the apartment buildings and public areas. That takes effort, too, like a smile, but people aren't necessarily suspicious: "Why did you put in this garden?" They take it for what it is, grateful for its beauty. The murals you painted brightened my day, here on the other side of the planet. It is silly for me to think that Nature won't repay you for the effort you put into them. But that many people, as you pointed out, will not be frowning, etc., unless they have a very, very good reason, so my hopes are with the Russian people to have long, happy lives filled with family, friends around the world, and success in their chosen professions.

[@Lu-dz4oc]

Exactly right. American from California here. Don't believe the naysayers. It's the norm here to smile as a way of being kind and to wish well to our fellow human beings who are, as the Bible says, created in the image of God.

[@sarah.j.777]

@@cyberbird451 you are correct.. here in America many people NEED this attention from everyone they encounter, otherwise they'll criticize, marginalize, & bad-mouth them. yes, narcissistic.. and they think they're the "nice" ones lol

[@lucjawawrzyniak]

I'm Polish and I remember how much people smiled in the streets when mask mandate was off for four months last year. I can't wait to smile at people when the masks aren't mandatory again

[@maryphipps-seward5995]

Yes, it's been horrible! They've stolen our smiles and our hugs!

[@aoikatt6770]

I smile at people with my mask on and they recognise it :D It depends on if it reaches the eyes.

[@anthonymitchell8893]

If I smiled at you I don't think you would like it all you would see is a set of gums ha ha

[@torquebiker9959]

You can draw a smilie on your mask. Problem solved.

[@annarzonca9839]

Polish people don't smile too. Maybe young generation. 😞

[@jason-cq8ps]

On Mother’s Day 2020 I visited my mother who was in the hospital. I was walking to my car to leave, feeling sort of half depressed because of…I don’t know…where I was, visiting an ailing mother and just generally exhausted after a busy day. In the parking lot, a woman was holding the hand of a little girl of about four years old as they walked towards the entrance. As they approached, the little girl looked at me and I smiled and her face lit up with a huge smile back and she waved. I’m not even sure if the woman she was walking with noticed any of this but it made my day and completely alleviated any negativity I was feeling just seconds before A simple smile, at the right moment can do amazing things. Mom’s ok now and I’ll never forget that little girl. A gift from heaven on that day, she was.

[@victoriageorgopoulou4292]

Hello, this vlog about cultural differences, reminds me of a time when I had just arrived to Paris from London where I was living at the time (by Eurostar). I asked a French employee in French "Excuse me Sir what is the best way to get from A to B?". He gave me a very good piece of advice as he probably did to everyone who had just arrived from London. He said :in France, you always should say Bonjour before asking someone anything, you cannot start the question by simply saying excuse me" It was very good advice and soon realised that this is how it is done in France and I of course adopted this way of interacting. I always do it when I am in France.

[@herminenasse4607]

"He said :in France, you always should say Bonjour before asking someone anything, you cannot start the question by simply saying excuse me" It was very good advice and soon realised that this is how it is done in France" This is a very good advice. For France, surely. And I had the very same experience in Poland this year. People are much more polite and more formal than we are in Germany. The many fellow German tourists sort of invading rather than nicely entering a restaurant or hotel really made me feel extremely embarrassed. I tried to be a little more thoughtful, which sometimes ended up being talked to in Russian by elderly people, telling me not having to be ashamed to be Russian - despite of the current situation ...

[@victoriageorgopoulou4292]

@@herminenasse4607 oh woaooo, it was funny what the old people said , yet it shows that they were really open minded and they definitely liked you no matter what nationality ....

[@peachxblue]

Yes, I noticed this in France too. In NYC you can walk in any shop and say nothing to the shopkeeper, but in France, everyone seemed to say Bonjour right when they walked in the store, so I started that, too! It’s a cute tradition.

[@Dx2n]

I am impressed by Natasha's willingness to look beyond stereotypes and by her genuine effort to try to see people as they are, and that she looks for the reasons that may be behind people's behaviors. I like her honest self-assessment of how she views the world around her.

[@noneofyourbizness]

i find it refreshing . in my country you very often hear people's opinions are nothing more than parroted opinions of tv stations/ newspapers...no actual thought at all. not only sad but dangerous too.

[@Sam-tg4ii]

3:40 I'm a foreigner living in the US. Actually, when Americans ask you what's up or how it's going, you can actually answer and start a conversation with them if you wish. Of course, you are not expected to get into the details of life but it's OK to talk a little bit about what you are up to and that could be the start of a friendship :)

[@celebrim1]

Yes, you pretty much can but most Americans will be uncomfortable with a stranger answering "how are you" in a negative way. Friends can share their troubles, but strangers are generally expected only to share mostly positive feelings. But absolutely, if you want to strike up a conversation with someone in the states it's totally allowed.

[@Sam-tg4ii]

@@celebrim1 Definitely, only positive vibes to share with strangers

[@rob-robi]

@@celebrim1 , where i live in south florida if you say ''how are you?' to some strangers you too often get ''man i'm broke, could you spare some change?''

[@austntexan]

I was just chatting with an old man at the mail kiosk today and thought about this video. We didn't know each other from Adam but chatted about the summer cicadas and their noises and how bad winter was this year. He's from Kansas originally and and actually knew which truck I drove based on my plates. I really think Americans do this as a protection thing. We're neighbors and to me, this basically means he knows I'm supposed to be here and he's observant about who comes and goes. A lot of the info we exchanged was unspoken/nonverbal I think.

[@apatheticallyconcerned6574]

@@АноНим-я3д We don't want one "predetermined answer." Asking "what's up" is not actually always a question. It's a multi-use greeting that started to gain popularity with young people to express how cool they were in the 1990's and it likely started being used originally in hip hop culture. Nowadays, asking "what's up" could mean many different things in America, like the op pointed out. It's like saying hello, how are you or how is life, or what's going on, or good to see you, I acknowledge you, etc. How you respond depends on who is asking you the question: -If a friend asks you "what's up" then that means "how is life" or "how are you doing" or "good to see you." -If someone who you do not know well asks you "what's up" then that could just mean "nice to see you" which is a sign of respect. You would respond with "hey, what's up" and that might be the end of the conversation, unless some decides to open up more. Nowadays, usually only people under 40 years old will say "what's up" and it has become a standard greeting. Older people will just say hello, how are you, etc. "What's up" is also often pronounced "sup" or "wassup." People in America started using "sup" a lot more in the early 1990's, especially after a famous commercial on tv made the phrase very popular amongst kids. kzbin.info/www/bejne/gHvQonaBqa-hrq8

[@Willhart33]

Some time ago, I went on a date with an exchange student from Russia and her lack of smiling really threw me off. At first I thought I was boring her... then I saw it was just her personality.

[@alparslanesmer4251]

Dear, I spent 5 years in the US for my undergrad. That was 30 years ago. I went back to Turkey, my home country after I graduated. I found a job at some place there. Many used to ask me "why I was smiling too much". They take it as you don't appear to be a serious person. The other reason is overall unhappiness. If you remain among them too long, they reflect their unhappiness at you like a giant mirror. They start punishing you for smiling. I could only stand it there for ten years. I returned to the US in 2004. In fact, even in the first two years of returning to my home country in 1994, I would go back to the US if I had a chance. Here (in the US), the smile may or may not be genuine, but they smile at your face. It still feels good. I still prefer them to frowning people.

[@mrjones4249]

Don't ever let negative people on the internet change you. Most people appreciate friendliness and respect. Your standard is a better way.

[@allatgoddess8961]

"Unhappiness?" Could it be the restrictive religion &/or the Big Guy?

[@alparslanesmer4251]

@@allatgoddess8961 Oh that was far before the "Big guy". Thanks to him anyway, the whole country will hate religion 🤣😂 The overall unhappiness I described was a decade before him, during the previous corrupt administrations that brought him. It is now "overall unhappiness times 10".

[@Paulsofsteel]

@@mrjones4249 so well said! I smile at you.

[@danielher4515]

Thank you for your very open and interesting answer. I am biased because I'm American. But I like to think that we are happier here than most countries. Although I like to take into context that America was never in a really bad land war where hundreds, thousands, and millions died. My heart goes out to Russians who lost so many people. I don't know too much about Turkey and war but I suspect that there were wars during the Ottomon Empire. We in America don't deserve it but we are simply blessed to be in a country that hasn't had a big war. If we did, maybe then we would smile less.

[@martinsv9183]

Smiling at strangers in western cultures is mostly a way to show that you have friendly and not hostile intentions towards them. Perfect example with the car door. He wanted to show you that he's not going to be angry or threatening towards you just because of the situation. So its like a signal that you can relax.

[@mikenoneofyourbusiness7122]

Following this logic, Russians not smiling is hostile behaviour? 😂 I think it’s just oppressive past. I’m Russian Canadian, 24 years in USSR/Russia, 19 in Canada. Canadians smile even more than Americans, btw 🙂

[@martinsv9183]

@@mikenoneofyourbusiness7122 No then the state of that person is very unclear. That's why you smile in some countries... to make it clear.

[@elvyrak415]

@@mikenoneofyourbusiness7122 i guess this sense of hostility is something that is still carried from the times of soviet regime. Living in a country that used to be a part of ussr (even though i was already born after regaining independence) it's still very clear how a mark has been left, especially on the older generations. They do not tend to trust, so hostility becomes sort of a natural state i guess.

[@DM-nw5lu]

I'm from Germany and smiling a lot/at strangers is seen as fake here, too. You don't have to smile at someone to show them you're not hostile. Just don't be hostile in mannerisms and tone. Fake smiles are not needed.

[@martinsv9183]

@@DM-nw5lu No there's nothing fake about showing you dont have any hostile intentions in a tense situation. Most people apprecieate that. As you can also see according to the video above. But I know a few people lack that natural skill and might misinterpret it as fake.

[@AB-iw4kw]

My wife is from Russia and she had the same culture shock. She thought it was weird for complete strangers to somettmes say hello to one another on the streets. I have also been to Russia myself and people in general keep to themselves. But when engaged in conversation, you can't get them to shut up! 😀

[@stischer47]

Lived in Odesa, Ukraine for three years. It took a while for them to realize that I was the "American" and always smiling because I'm generally a happy person. Before long, when they would see me they would smile also. Just spreading the happiness when I could.

[@deepakx7]

when you what? you cut off at that end, damnit man are you okay!

[@stischer47]

@@deepakx7 "...when I could spread happiness." I'm fine. I was with the US Peace Corps and we were evacuated because of COVID in March 2020. As soon as it lifts (and Ukraine vaccinates) I will be going back.

[@lyudmilaaksan2232]

@@stischer47 Ukraine is at war with Russia, which I am sure you herd of when you were there so people there are different then in Russia. Hope you learn more about the country you visit in the future.

[@stischer47]

@@lyudmilaaksan2232 The reason I chose to live in Ukraine was because I HAD studied the history of Ukraine (from before the Kyivan Rus ) and wanted to see for myself what it and its people were like. After over three years, I learned a lot which only increased my knowledge of the people and the land. I never thought Ukrainians were Russian, as you seem to think. I hope you will learn to ask rather than make assumptions (as shown by your last sentence). Luckily, most of the Ukrainians I've met (except maybe the dinosaurs) were not so quick to judge.

[@lyudmilaaksan2232]

@@stischer47 I am glad you know so much about Ukraine:). I did not mean to offend you. Lots of people that live there just live day to day not caring about their own history or any other country's.

[@bzert281]

when i moved to the South in the US, it was so delightful that everybody passing by you in a car would wave, and you'd wave back. Sometimes it's just lifting a finger off the steering wheel as you pass each other. It's a good thing, just to make a small acknowlegement that "you exist, I see you."

[@bettydougherty870]

Yes, when I lived in rural Texas, you always lifted your index finger from the steering wheel as a greeting. If someone didn't lift a finger back, you knew that they were either 1) a stranger or 2) mad at you for some reason.

[@springfauna1465]

I love living in the South!! People are so genuinely kind and friendly.

[@seraphale]

Farmer Finger!☝️😀

[@jrstf]

I live in a liberal northern town, we used to smile, now so many people are masked and with earbuds in and will not acknowledge someone else at all except to cross the street to pass on the other side.

[@anthonymitchell8893]

A really I'm British and when I tried to be friendly I was robbed 3 times in 4 months once at gunpoint once with a knife and once on threat of getting beat up I don't think I'm going back to your wonderful country it couldn't happen in London there are cameras everywhere

[@sherryyyberryyy235]

As an American this made me smile 😬 I’m from Tennessee. I’m very southern, we smile & small talk a lot here. I’m glad you enjoyed your time here! Hopefully one day you can come back & visit some other states!

[@aewhatever]

LOL Southerners do not believe a small chat. You all are a bunch of chatty cathys

[@marissab6461]

Im from Tennessee too

[@jcmoraesjc2619]

Bonjour, beautiful! North Americans say that Brazilians smile and hug people too much, why? Veja is very common in Brazil a couple is hugging and kissing next to other people waiting for the bus or subway; you can watch people in cars at traffic lights kissing in the car, I've done this myself several times in the car; I wonder if the Brazilian people are bad characters and naughty about kissing in public... I'll take a break, understand!{ I had a co-worker who came from Morocco, Marrakech - Africa; at a company celebration party an employee hugged his wife and kissed her on the head... He was her colleague but his reaction was super aggressive with his wife, the boy apologized but had done nothing wrong for him to be so aggressive: It was just a hug and kiss on the head representing friendship and respect for her! He the Moroccan was only 1 year and a half in Brazil}. The religiosity of Brazilians, the economy, life and their social heritage gives the people a different face from other countries in America. Carnival and all Brazilian parties are different in terms of seasoning and values, for example: There are Brazilian songs that are prohibited in the USA, but it is allowed to buy guns in the USA; in Brazil it's a crime and gives you 15 years in prison if you're caught with guns (Numbers of children killed in Brazilian schools - ZERO! In the USA there are three attacks a year! Carnival has beautiful women with exposed asses and breasts, sexual freedom, homosexual marriage, Angels and Demons... But there is a beautiful expression that says: Living in Europe is beautiful and sublime but life sucks!Living in Brazil sucks but life is beautiful and wonderful! Americans say that Brazilian women are beautiful and prostitutes... I'm in a stage of life that if you told me that 2+2=10, that's fine! It's not my problem, it's your problem! If they are prejudiced, envious, cowardly and ignorant it is their problem and not mine, it will only be my problem if I agree! For example: My aunt and my mother's sister is a prostitute; she had been sick for a week and my mother went to help her sister not to miss the trade point. My mother is not a prostitute, my mother is the surrogate! Whore is my aunt... People have to survive. The truth has the face of those who observe them! Joseph spent a year and three months building the tomb of King Herod, Joseph father of Jesus Christ was 40 years older than Mary mother of Christ. Let's look at the facts - More than a year without making love to the wife! Mary is right, the man who does not take care of what he has leaves for others to eat, a point for Mary Mother of Jesus Christ. Every person is free to believe in anything, even flying saucers, why not! Life is short, the best thing in life is to live! That all Brazilians already know very well... The rest of the world makes war and we go to the beach to surf and love, amen! God is inside you and not outside! When humanity awakens to this reality, all wars, prejudices and religions will be just cancerous rubbish for people's control. God cannot fight himself since you have God in your heart! Evil is the absence of God in your heart! Kisses and hugs.

[@frankbanes9122]

😂❤👍

[@millier.206]

I moved up north to Ohio from Arkansas. I went to training for my company and there were 2 guys from Arkansas there. We hung out the whole week and were like friends 😂 felt like being home again

[@bettynewberry1]

When an American smiles at you, it's a gesture of friendliness.

[@BreckoniousMaximus]

As an American, I'm always told I don't smile enough or I'm constantly asked, "what's wrong?" Or "are you ok?" It drives me crazy! Maybe I should move to Russia, so people stop asking me stupid questions. Russians also seem more realistic about life in general.

[@lookitskatiex]

I was in a bad mood and some lady told me I “looked like I lost my best friend” very loudly. Or worse, old men telling me to smile. It’s nice for people to care but also sometimes it can cross over into invasive.

[@eaaeeeea]

Come to live in Finland, we don't smile either. As the happiest country on Earth, we believe the happiness will escape our bodies if we express it so we don't! Just kidding, every country has it's positives and negatives :)

[@BreckoniousMaximus]

@@eaaeeeea Don't tease me, I would love to live in Finland, Sweden, or Norway.

[@isalan]

@@eaaeeeea I have heard Finnish don’t smile but love to Tango. I’ve never seen someone smiling while dancing the Tango.

[@skyhorseprice6591]

This was a really awesome and honest explanation of Russian and American culture. What boggles my mind is how our politicians want to make us out to be enemies, but the American _people_ and the Russian _people_ ....we are not enemies, and in fact seem to get along quite well. These days I don't pay attention to the media nor to politicians, who are only interested in getting rich at our expense. At any rate, I really enjoyed this and have subscribed 😊

[@megganmcclincey1971]

This is funny. I’m from Virginia and it’s pretty routine to talk to complete strangers... talk their ear off, learn their name, get phone numbers, and even giving hugs...especially if the person is having a bad day. This is across the board, not dependent on race, ethnicity, etc... I guess we are weird. 😂💋🇺🇸

[@maryphipps-seward5995]

Stay weird.......the world needs that kind of weirdness!

[@jrstf]

Virginia is overrun with federal government employees, I am quite certain any time a government employee smiles it is because they are about the screw somebody.

[@kathryndirocco3048]

Amen sista from the East coast. 🤗❣

[@ForestSakan]

wow so do believe u are nice..how odd...i rather be russian..if i dont care about others..i wouldnot pretend to.care

[@maryphipps-seward5995]

@@ForestSakan But, why wouldn't you care about others?!

[@catloverkitten10]

My Dad would always wave and smile when driving by a person in the street. I’d ask him who the person was and he’d say “I don’t know”. As a young person this would crack me up. Now I do it in my town. This is in the Midwest.

[@Bravo2uniform]

Down here in the South, too.

[@nankerphelge3771]

@A Rodriguez I do it everyday in my neighborhood. Almost everyone waves and many smile back.

[@springfauna1465]

Same!! I live in Kentucky now and the people here will start conversations with you and be very friendly like there are no strangers. It's actually really nice because they're genuinely kind.

[@letsplaybaby8098]

@A Rodriguez you don't belong here in the midwest if you're thinking like that.

[@heathkings]

Yes, everyday here too! The midwest.

[@ginabee1212]

I don't think the smile is fake in most people. As a speech language therapist, I would probably refer to it as a social smile. It's part of the culture, and some areas may smile more than others. If I go to NYC (Manhattan, NY city), I don't usually make eye contact or smile, but in the suburbs out in Suffolk County of Long Island, I am more likely to make brief eye contact with a slight smile.

[@michaelgeorge819]

I read that forcing a smile can actually cause a person to feel happy.

[@katherinetutschek4757]

A classmate of mine used to take "Laughing Yoga", where the class was encouraged to laugh together. He said it actually did make him happier :P

[@mbrow]

That's actually true because the muscles used when you smile release some endorphins or something like that. Great, huh?

[@lil_weasel219]

faking emotions is bad. no, fake smiling wont make you happy

[@lil_weasel219]

@@katherinetutschek4757 keyword is together When we hear others laughing it has a positive effect. When you smile at yourself in the MIRROR it even has such an effect but much smaller, but thats because your reflexive brain in a way perceives your reflection as another human smiling at you

[@loriwyoming835]

@@lil_weasel219 Actually there is a saying "fake it until you make it." I was a totally bashful introvert and used that saying and it worked. I can now easily enter any social environment and feel comfortable. Smiling invites people in where frowning puts up a block to the world. I'm not suddenly transformed into an extrovert by any means, but I've learned to actually like people.

[@thebirdwhoflew312]

My fiancee is Russian and it's taken her a little bit to be more "cheery" per se but not because she isn't like this. She is amazingly warm, polite, and quite cheery. It's just the way she was raised and her environment. What I've learned during my time with her is that Russians are incredibly warm and hospitable people once you form part of their circle of friends.

[@hernerweisenberg7052]

Yeah its just a matter of foreigners feeling foreign in other countries i guess. Im german and my grandma lived in a small village in Slovenia, the first time i remember visiting her the whole village felt rather hostile, nobody likes germans in the slav countries due to historical complications. However when they learned that we where related to that nice old lady that was my grandma it was like the whole village was part of the family and everybody was very friendly ;)

[@I_Have_The_Most_Japanese_Music]

I have a few questions: (1) How did you two get together? (2) Is she a spy? (3) Does it seem like she is trying to subvert our democratic process?

[@thebirdwhoflew312]

@@I_Have_The_Most_Japanese_Music Let me guess a few things: 1. You believe the election was “a fraud”. 2. You refuse to wear a mask and get vaccinated. 3. The candidate you voted for is also known as “Co-conspirator number 1”. 4. You still live with your parents, drink either Pabst Blue Ribbon or Natty Daddy and one more just for fun! 5. (If you have a car) one of the following bumper stickers is attached “Blue Lives Matter”, “We The People”, “Salt Life” or “If you don’t like the way I drive, DIAL 1-800-EAT-SHIT”.

[@I_Have_The_Most_Japanese_Music]

@@thebirdwhoflew312 It's a high quality implementation but somehow you got the direction 180 degrees off.

[@jimcrackcorn2460]

@@thebirdwhoflew312 👍

[@kathycagg6531]

This was so interesting to me. I live in Midwest USA and am completely used to seeing smiles & smiling out in public. I don’t think of it as fake, it’s more like ”we’re all in this together “. I think smiling can actually help us feel better. One time I was eating lunch alone in a restaurant and feeling sad because my husband had died a few weeks earlier. I decided to “catch smiles” of other diners at other tables. In doing so I was cheered up a bit. I’m subbing to see what else you’re up to.

[@kathycagg6531]

@Chosen Remix , it isn’t “acting”. It is choosing to BE!

[@Allan_aka_RocKITEman]

@Kathy Cagg >>> (1) I agree with you. (2) Sorry you lost your hubby.

[@nataliajaime-hughes6423]

I live in another happy area of the United States now with lots of nature (moving to Europe though). Lots of genuine friendliness and happiness, but we also are generally busy and tend to only make plans on weekends with friend groups. Other countries have been more social for me. But i love the friendliness stereotype

[@darkthingswithmarkdavis4497]

I don’t think Russians are expected to be happy. Suffering is a part of Russian history.

[@anypercentdeathless]

Also from the Midwest. You are correct. We smile without thinking too much about it. If anything, just to say "hey, we're both people going through life." Lived in China many years, and was confused-and a bit saddened-by the coldness people had with strangers.

[@mikehzz9848]

I'm Australian and we do smile a lot too. My family and I went to Germany and the people at the airport scared us. We all went in different lines for the passport check and all of us commented how serious and stern the people working there were, not friendly at all. We want to go to Russia but actually don't feel it's safe enough to do it because we've been told it's worse than Germany. The German people were nice, just humorless in most cases.

[@collieclone]

Natasha, I loved your honesty and completely empathise with you. I lived in Southern California for 9 years after living in Berlin for many years and was blown away by the culture of smiling when I first arrived there. I'm from Scotland and remember a German friend asking me why I had smiled at a passing stranger when I didn't know them. So I probably did smile a bit before living in America but really learned how to make it a habit after living there for a while. The energy and positivity that Americans have and show is something we all need to learn and maintain once we return home. Thank you for your courage and openness.

[@fgjjdgb3949]

It is clear that it is a good position to bring more positivity to the world, but I'm more for sincerity, because I'm Russian. My conditions are as follows. Sincere joy, friend, loved one, neighbor, joke, pun, tickle, memory of funny, but there must be a reason.

[@returnofthemac2951]

@@fgjjdgb3949 A reason? I smile because I am alive, and I appreciate the beauty that God has given the world.

[@fgjjdgb3949]

@@returnofthemac2951 See, this thought came to your mind, you felt this pleasant feeling and there was a reason to smile and you smiled. Any reason is important, it's like fuel for a smile, without a reason it's just a cramp or a fake. If you smile just from the sight of a person, it's generally wonderful.

[@returnofthemac2951]

@@fgjjdgb3949 It's an acknowledgement that the person is not invisible, and that their mere presence means something in this world, even to a stranger.

[@fgjjdgb3949]

@@returnofthemac2951 This is a very important quality, it can say a lot about a person.

[@kyleserros]

In the American military my drill sergeant said, "false motivation, is better than no motivation." Keep smiling and work and life will be more enjoyable. Embrace the suck.

[@ncmtmemories487]

Hooah!

[@johnmalkovich6397]

nice one, thats true, imagine life you want to live, and act like you have one

[@tvrtkoceric5681]

@@johnmalkovich6397 Yeah, imagine you want life with NO masks , vaccines or lockdowns, act like you have it and see Corona cultists descend on you ....

[@danhalo1405]

@@tvrtkoceric5681 you are talking about denying reality. We are in the middle of a global pandemic that is the reality and humanity has to do its best to diminish its impact. What the other people are talking about it not denying reality but more in line with to make the best out of a situation regardless how dire the circumstances currently might be because it will get better eventually

[@Kingsman4101]

Mine told me to pull my head out of my 4th point of contact....

[@forestshomer4043]

You have a magic power: the comments here are overwhelmingly positive! Considering what KZbin 'culture' generally is, that is a remarkable achievement!

[@docmoist3097]

it really just depends on the demographic of the video

[@Murkrust]

wow simp

[@docmoist3097]

what??

[@tanler7953]

I find her much less materialistic than the average Russian woman. She sees beauty in many ordinary things.

[@iamrambo99]

Very heartwarming video! Thank you for expressing yourself with authenticity

[@Sapwolf]

I'm an American and I smile a lot. I tend to be chatty but recognize when chattiness is not appropriate. Never underestimate how powerful a smile is. It can brighten a day just a little bit more. I remember one time I was very angry at something and wound up and then I passed a mother and her toddler and the child waved to me and smiled and I smiled and waved back. It disarmed me instantly and I was relaxed and grounded again and realized how silly I was. I sometimes feel sorry for those who cannot smile. Sometimes, I equate smiling in certain situations as a sign of grace, etc. But the one thing I take from every smile I receive is...warmth.

[@stevenleslie8557]

Smiling and small talk for some Americans acts as a tension breaker. Since we don't know each other, we are telegraphing to each other that we are not a threat. Typically we expect the other person to smile back to put us at ease.

[@МикаФлавин]

and what if someone doesn't want to talk and smile? is he suspicious, dangerous or what? really interesting

[@mattyice8265]

@@МикаФлавин yes!... lol. I think it is not abnormal to have a negative view or thoughts about someone if you smile and wave to them, and they just stare at you. I consider it very rude, and will pretty much avoid that person from then on if they don’t at least show something back. At the very least I take it as a hint that they are either angry, or have no interest in me. Typing this out makes me feel very judgmental.😂

[@scootergreen3]

Exactly.

[@jan22150]

@@МикаФлавин if you don't want to talk ,you don't talk. Nobody will blame you or get annoyed, if you don't want to talk!

[@hank4920]

But sometime a guy can be very polite and smiling like Ted Bundy.

[@Clairsach]

I have lived all over the USA and in Scotland. There are fake smiles and sincere smiles. It's a condition of the heart in the individual. If your heart is full of love for people, your smile will never be fake. It isn't only because of politeness. So those of you who smile when you don't want to...don't. Why lie to people and yourself? But if you love your fellow man....Smile away and don't apologize.

[@Soluchi-InfiniteCoCreatorGod]

You're a Compassionate woman. 💚

[@DogSpeak]

Every day on my way home from work I would always pass, "The walking man". At least that's what I called him. He always wore sun glasses and walked up the hill with his walking stick. He would smile and waved whenever I'd pass. Then one day I saw him walking in the town center on the sidewalk. That's when I realized he was blind. He never saw me smile or wave back. He only heard the cars coming and smiled and waved to everyone. I haven't seen him in several months. I hope he's ok.

[@chichicucco]

Such a lovely story!

[@Allan9966]

Where I live in Yorkshire, England we not only smile at strangers in the street, we say hello as well!

[@fredneecher1746]

Y'all reet? Yorkshire is the place where waiting for a bus and having a conversation are the same thing.

[@nelsonbordacampbell1528]

The same thing happens in Bolivia, especially if the girl is pretty

[@CrankCase08]

@@fredneecher1746 "Y'all reet"?? That's more Tyneside than Yorkshire.

[@uglaegilsdottir]

That you do! :)

[@bluize56]

I often think that to give someone a smile costs me nothing, but is always something of value to all who share it.

[@ginterka381996]

Ok, but I as a Slavic person (I'm from Poland) I think that smiling to everyone on the street when you don't know them it's a little bit weird. 😁🤷‍♀️

[@scubaseppy]

I live in a suburb of Minneapolis, it makes me happy that our culture had a lifelong impact on you.

[@scubaseppy]

@Chosen Remix I don't know the circles you run around it but that's not my experience. 💩 post

[@scubaseppy]

@Chosen Remix 💩

[@tomgreene7942]

@Chosen Remix Ha ha ha. When I was in Europe I was ready to come home to America where we could hang out with friends at the BarBQ, drink beer, burp and fart and not be shamed. LOL

[@uggadugga8070]

I am also from Minneapolis and suburbs, (born in Duluth) and am 1/2 Finnish. I get accused of not smiling enough by the wife. I tell her that's the way Finnish people are! I'm just wired that way!

[@Branko353]

@@tomgreene7942, @Chosen Remix In America every conversation seems to end talking about shit and farting.

[@benjiang9789]

Russians seem to be serious. But when I said "Hello, Comrades!" in Russian to a visiting delegation, everyone laughed and began to talk with me, whether my Russian is good or not.

[@gumikebbap]

for those who don't know, the translation is "Privet suka!"

[@Littlebeth5657]

@@gumikebbap now don't go teaching swear words like that ;)

[@benjiang9789]

@@Littlebeth5657 I strictly follow the textbooks. No worry.

[@BuffaloveBills]

I hate Smalltalk, I like when people just walked by nod and a smile that’s, perfect.

[@xtrailz]

If you don't like Smalltalk, then you should try C# or Javascript

[@ericbraswell4713]

@@xtrailz Ba Dom Boom!

[@yespls4184]

Same. As an American I never really thought about the fact that we do "small talk" and ask eachother how we are without actually wanting a long answer... But once I finally heard from foreigners about how strange this is, now I always overthink it and it kind of drives me crazy now, lol

[@DecrepitIllusion]

Says the guy making small talk in a comment xD

[@BuffaloveBills]

@@DecrepitIllusion typing not talking xD

[@will._.x_.861]

I just love your authenticity, there is a shortage of that here…

[@mattheginger]

I think it’s important not to assume people’s smiles are automatically fake. When it’s related to commerce it often can be (retail shops, airlines, secretary’s etc..), but when it’s in the street or in the wider community, bus drivers etc its often more genuine. People commonly smile and greet, talk with strangers here in New Zealand (culture is probably a mix of British and US influence, with our own added uniqueness), and I see smiling as a way that people express good wishes or warmth towards others they don’t know. When I pass someone and smile, it’s both an unspoken communication of good wishes, and an effort perhaps to make them feel more comfortable with my presence. Thanks for the insightful video 🙂

[@NatashasAdventures]

Thanks! Yes, showing good wishes and warmness to others is what smiles meant for me in the US. I would love to visit New Zealand and Australia and to see how people differ there. You have your own uniquness, indeed.

[@mattheginger]

Yeah Russia You definitely should. I’d like to think we’re a friendly bunch down here in the South Pacific! ...perhaps wait till ‘post-covid’ though 🙃😕😅

[@stylishmodernman9941]

mattheginger you are absolutely spot on. I am from England and to smile at someone we do not know is simply, as you say, an expression of warmth and friendliness to others. And I agree that the smiles are genuine gestures and not fake at all. On the flip side, I have met and worked with Russian speakers from Russia, Latvia, Lithuania, Belarus, the Ukraine. These people are all lovely warm and friendly too and they do smile when they get to know a person more. I dated a Belarusian woman too and she was adorable, warm and kind. The general point is everyone smiles sometimes, for different reasons personally and culturally. And just because someone smiles less does not necessarily mean they are ‘less warm or less friendly’ Natasha - your videos are great and your personality shines through. I also want to say how good your English is and I am personally also very impressed at your general knowledge. Keep up the amazing work 👌😊

[@user-pe2yx9kt4e]

Exactly, it bothered me how she kept mentioning that. Like yeah, sometimes people will have a fake smile (esp in places like dentists’ offices and restaurants, as you mentioned), but often times they are being genuine. I wish she would have tried to read into the situation more with the bus driver...

[@deanfirnatine7814]

@@mattheginger From an American perspective your very friendly down under, more like us here in rural America although I would guess people in places like Melbourne and Wellington in NZ are less friendly than rural folks there.

[@jackfox9082]

Psychology research claims the act of smiling alone, even when you do not feel like smiling, is beneficial for your mental health. There is a feedback mechanism from the facial muscles to the brain.

[@mariemaier5630]

Actually this is pseudoscience. People who work in jobs where they are forced to always smile are more likely to suffer from depression

[@schnelltv1956]

@@mariemaier5630 I worked as a cashier for 9 months where i was forced to have a cheery attitude, easily the worst job i ever had.

[@jackfox9082]

@@mariemaier5630 Of course being forced to do anything against your will is detrimental.

[@LC-jq7vn]

there is some feed back but not what they used to say back in the day “ can’t be sad if you are smiling”. Which is absolutely not true, but thoughts feelings and behaviors are intrinsic. Meaning anyone of them can affect or cause the others. Fake it till you make it is very true. Behavior can 100% influence thoughts. The smile can influence you to feel better at times. But it can’t be forced by your boss either. It’s gotta be your idea.

[@moonooze6171]

@@mariemaier5630 I’ve worked as a cashier and yeah, more often than not the smile is a mask and behind that mask is indifference or tedium. Then there are the customers who bring some light into your day and the smile is genuine.

[@exoduskamman1413]

In some areas, smiling at a stranger could equate to flirting, so in larger especially northern US cities where more cultures blend, you’ll see a bit less smiling. Also I was homeless for a long time. People really do care about strangers here! I rarely went without a couple dollars to eat, even if I couldn’t afford to do laundry or other things. When disasters happen, people who never met will come out of the woodwork to help one another.

[@jerrykendrick2955]

Many good observations were intelligently and astutely made. This is how understanding is developed. Thanks Natasha.

[@cheftobyreichart]

The earth is fortunate to have you here, you have made me smile

[@retiefgregorovich810]

My wife is Ukrainian and when she visits her family in Ukraine her sister scolds her for talking casually with store clerks and smiling. "You smile too much!"

[@tonylogan4092]

Yes. Why is this bitterness such a norm there?

[@davidbagley1783]

I hear that too

[@daevaskye]

I think life was very tough in Russia under the communists. They didn't have much reason to smile.

[@scootergreen3]

Wow.

[@JerryMac1125]

That's Really Sad 😔😔

[@AsitShouldBe]

I'm italian and my girlfriend is from Romania, for many years i never understood her, she rarely smile or laugh.. i was thinking there was a problem between us.. now i better understand.. here in italy people are always smiling 😊

[@MM-pj4bl]

True! Italians are very joyful. I love it

[@anathemaii7911]

Not true, it depends where you come from. In my region we don’t smile a lot, we look always upset, so I do understand the Slavs.

[@AsitShouldBe]

@@anathemaii7911 what's your region?

[@qjtvaddict]

Romania is broke that’s why they don’t smile

[@thetruth495]

I do not agree. Ticket controllers on Italian buses and trains very rarely smile!

[@kingsindian8948]

My wife and I spent a week in Moscow about 10 years ago due to my wife's job. I also speak Russian having studied it at school so I was excited to go there. We were totally shocked by how miserable and depressed people seemed even at that time. We have travelled all across the world but Russia and Bulgaria are the two countries where nobody seems to have any natural warmth for other people. It's such a weird thing and makes you just want to get away to somewhere where people are warm hearted and happy. Thanks for this video Natasha.

[@douglasdowney3433]

It's awesome to hear her. I took American smiling for granted. Speaking for myself as an American I was taught that smiling looking people in the eye and acknowledging their presence was polite and would help me in the long run to open more doors and create more positive experiences and opportunity.

[@Keithf1]

"Laughter is the best medicine". "Every laugh begins with a smile".

[@HarvardBob]

What an amazing perceptive young woman. How fortunate she had the opportunity to visit the United States. She's clearly highly intelligent as she can see what are the good and bad parts. She explain beautifully for her personal perspective and the Russian people in general. I am eager to see more of her videos.

[@RalphDratman]

Could not agree more!

[@chipsdad5861]

You have such a kind heart. We love hearing your optimistic view on the world.

[@raineedaytinyfilms]

When I smile at people in the USA I smile genuinely. I smile because I acknowledge another human and am very happy to do it. It’s not fake.

[@KingZealotTactics]

Yes that's said well, it's an acknowledgement that another human being is in front of you and that you are genuinely happy to know how they are in a very short but sweet manner.

[@KingZealotTactics]

@Bill Blaze What is fake to you is real to us and what is cold and uninterested to us is normal for you.

[@mrjones4249]

Bill Blaze: you assume people have the same mentality you have.

[@RalphDratman]

@Bill Blaze Yes, it is a courtesy. But it usually makes me feel a little bit of goodness to hear that or to say it. Not everything needs "meaning." Consider a handshake, or even a kiss. What do they mean in words? Well, nothing in particular in words. But in feelings they can mean a lot.

[@jeremiahchapman9288]

@Bill Blaze Try being honest when people ask. If you are having a bad day, tell them simple, "not great". They will most likely respond with a sincere, "I'm sorry to hear that". And when they do, notice how you begin to feel better about your day because someone cares for you. It is a myth that the question is usually fake. Generally, people hope that you are having a good day. -Have a great day! :-)

[@tarask8611]

Someone called the Western culture "a culture of a stone" and that of the Eastern European people - "a culture of a peel". The people from the West are smiley and benevolent but they won't let you too close, meanwhile the people from Eastern Europe appear to be gloomy but once you get through it you can develop that something that we would call true deep friendship. And that's pretty damn accurate from what I experienced.

[@chrisschey7818]

I think so too.

[@lepekmaniak]

In Poland we're the same, I mean in Eastern way of smile. Had a huge mindfuck when ppl, just passing me by on a walkway were asking me "How you doin'?(In Northern Ireland).

[@jduff59]

I live in California - smiley people will walk right by you if you were bleeding to death - but they would smile! New Yorkers may appear rude, but when something horrible like the 9-11 attack happens - they'll risk their own life to try and save another. I think we saw evidence of this on that terrible day. Russian folks seem genuine, but maybe not at a casual glance.

[@annadreaming6595]

«Там живут несчастные люди дикари, на лицо ужасные добрые внутри»

[@alexs7671]

@@annadreaming6595 lol Just not quite dikari, more odichavshie from a tough life 😁😊😑

[@ookpiklives1925]

I live in America, and when I say, "how are you?", I expect a true, but short answer because if they are not doing well, maybe I can help, and if not, I am happy for them.

[@okchief]

I was thinking the same thing, and I've seen other foreign visitors not realize this

[@upsidedownpeon9984]

@@okchief Yea, I like it when the reply with "i'm good, just hungry" I'm more than happy to go buy some food to eat :P

[@ryann7760]

ya that's pretty much the norm here, outside of large cities at least.

[@Noone-rt6pw]

Yeah, everyone has days where they have something to say. I've heard bad, good as well as just so so.

[@bootlegapples]

You should not expect because nobody is obligated to open themselves because they're randomly asked to.

[@derrickparran]

One of the few pleasures of all Life is slices of happiness. It pains me to think of beautiful people not smiling at least once a day.

[@JasVmitten]

I remember when Boris Yeltsin visited the US in 1989, he visited a grocery store: "He told his fellow Russians in his entourage that if their people, who often must wait in line for most goods, saw the conditions of U.S. supermarkets, 'there would be a revolution.' ”

[@PV-pw8bf]

irrelevant and we know

[@harrywinslow3946]

And indeed, there WAS a revolution. That grocery store ended Communism in Russia.

[@МаксимВолжский-б2е]

Ельцин много чего говорил. Понимаю, вам нравятся его слова, но в России его никто не уважает. Для русских он - просто пьяница.

[@Алексей-о9б4г]

@@МаксимВолжский-б2е да, но при нём было больше свободы, чем сейчас.

[@YouLoveMrFriendly]

@@harrywinslow3946 Russia was never communist. Communism is collectivism without the State. The Soviet Union was Socialist - a State-owned economy, which never works.

[@ManuelBTC21]

Russian sees a foreigner. "Wow, you came to Russia....Why?" 😂

[@josephgrima7981]

Must be corrupt leaders that are just way too greedy, like extremely past what they should be taking from you people. You guys should have vacations, medical marijuana for anyone that wants to feel nicer, I even heard there's brothels in Russia women treated terrible, the place honestly is very unattractive Putin as well he doesn't even allow someone to run against him meanwhile nobody is happy there he sux

[@mavenfeliciano1710]

I was literally reading your comment as she was saying it in the video. 🙃

[@EffySalcedo]

😂😂

[@rinislaboratories1315]

Nice pfp bro

[@adamantiuscloudcat1799]

@@josephgrima7981 not all Russians think like the girl from this video.

[@myrarussell5986]

Natasha, smiling has a physiological consequence. It literally lifts a mood. Simply by raising the corners of your mouth you cause a positive, mental reaction within yourself. When you share that smile with others you gain self worth and give them a gift of positivity. Enjoy your gift. You have a beautiful smile.

[@Festerbestertester6]

Some actual scientific research confirms this: www.cnbc.com/2020/08/21/simple-trick-that-can-make-you-happier-according-to-research.html

[@OjoRojo40]

Yes, that's why you area always asked to smile at your work, so you forget that you are being paid minimal wage and have a 45k student loan to pay.

[@nilsoliverschumann4486]

Thanks!

[@JazzMan76]

This was terrific. I love your honesty. Great to see how people from another culture react to what we do in the U.S.A.

[@katyareads221]

When you talk about being happy...your face brightens up.

[@jenniferlee6955]

Good observation.

[@brettbirge8246]

There are places in Idaho where people will still wave to you "Welcome!" as you are driving by. Yes even in 2021

[@mrbr549]

That is quite common in many rural places of the U.S.

[@antonmoric1469]

That charming old white American culture that is now so vilified.

[@creamandcream9331]

Idaho will also throw you in jail if you have weed. That was 2019. Lolol 😄

[@Ghostly-00]

Yeah people are chill in Idaho. I lived in Nampa for a year and people were open and kind like small town people.

[@rudert56]

Just wait until the Californians take over Idaho. There won’t be too many “welcomes” then.

[@sms7782]

Thanks, this is interesting. In Germany it is different depending on where you are. In small villages people often say a formal „Hallo“ when they see each other. You recognize the person and behave polite but you do not need to show emotions. In the cities its everything between total ignorance and the american way. 🙃

[@JP-ur8eg]

Americans smiles arent fake because they mean a different thing. They do not that we care about the person we are smiling to, it is just considered a friendly and polite thing to do and kinda like wishing somebody a good day at the same time.

[@tonylegge7261]

And the English have a great response to "have a nice day" - No thanks I've made other plans!

[@alexjeon2180]

Actually, a smile in the US from one stranger to another can mean different things based on the situation: It can be a form of acknowledgement (i.e. customer service person at a store or restaurant to a patron). It can mean "Hello." without words. It can be used to remove an awkward situation (like when two people almost run into each other walking down a hallway or street). It can mean "How are you doing? You're cute." One thing is very clear, though. It is usually accompanied with or as a "place-holder" for a greeting. If your greeting is not accompanied by a smile, it means your greeting is fake (in the US). Can you imagine meeting someone and NOT accompanying your handshake with a smile in the US? I can't...

[@OutnBacker]

@@alexjeon2180 yeah, that pretty much sums it up. It's not disingenuous at all. Its just American, but there are other peoples that do it, too. - just not typically in Europe from my experience. Even my Austrian relatives don't smile and are sometimes rude to other Austrians, but they were very kind to me as I struggled to speak German.

[@pdraggy]

In Hawaii they smile cuz they want your money. No really I'm Hawaiian born and raised, it's a tourist economy. They need your money or Hawaii would go down the drain. If you know Hawaii's economy, it's stupidly like 120% tourism there.

[@Mandalaaxo]

I heard a theory once from sociologists or anthropologists... that the reason Americans smile so much is because so many cultures were all living together and often couldn't talk to each other, so instead they would smile (because it is a universal expression) instead of talk and it became ingrained in our own culture. Sounds like a good explanation to me. At my job, we are required to smile at everyone. I like it, I also work in healthcare, so you want to promote a positive atmosphere and be friendly to the patients and coworkers.

[@derryk1]

Also on top of that.... back in the old western expansion days a stranger coming towards you on the open plain no one else around for miles you don't know if this person was friend or foe. So a quick smile and "hello" or "Howdy stranger" would ease a lot of anxiety and tension. By the way "howdy" is short for "how do you do" in old American slang.

[@je-freenorman7787]

USA History is a Total Lie. Yes things happened but not for the reasons we are told. Much of history is covered up and lied about for religious authority. Masons and other religions are scamming us and stealing our lives. Government is a religious cult.

[@susanfudge1737]

In the south it was just white and black English speakers. We smile, wave, and talk to strangers. We also call you honey, sweetie, etc.

[@lukabloom409]

I wonder what would explain Ireland, where everyone talks to everyone else, even total strangers.

[@je-freenorman7787]

@@lukabloom409 The Irish are Arians too. From the middle east

[@davidkemble6014]

I live in Kailua, Hawaii, and so was very pleased to hear Natasha speak about the public warmth people display in Hawaii. The smiles here are very genuine! I walk my dog on the beach every day and when you pass people they usually smile and nod to you. Other dog owners stop to ask the name of your dog and make small talk; that’s the normal behavior. I feel that in Hawaii the smiles are more generous and genuine than anywhere else in America.

[@jeffsea6490]

So True 👍

[@annemurphy9339]

It’s the same in the Mid-South and the South of the U.S. too.

[@jeffsea6490]

@@annemurphy9339 hawaii has them all beat when it comes to smiling faces.🙂

[@annemurphy9339]

@@jeffsea6490 I donKt think it’s a contest. I’m just encouraged to hear that kindness, goodwill, civility and optimism still flourish whatever the geography.

[@PapLab]

You live in a beautiful place, I visited in 2018 and I can confirm people is very welcoming :) Greetings from Italy!

[@tishamonroe7418]

i found this topic so interesting! I grew up in Wisconsin, and my nickname was smiley. It is often noted that I smile and nod my head at strangers, especially those that would usually be overlooked. I say thankyou and give a wink of my eye. This makes me have a more personnel connection to a stranger(as if we share a little inside joke ) I believe in my heart that we are equal in value and everybody is special at something. It is up to us to discover what that is. after weeks of saying hello to a janitor and calling him by his name , today he spoke tome in a quiet voice and I learned he is an expert fly fisherman. He wrote a book and is published in sports magazines,and had a radio show!! I can tell you this,no body else in this large building knows that. What a gem he is! ;)

[@jamesrobinson6382]

When I came to Russia in 2018 my luggage got lost in Paris due to a missed connection. At the Moscow airport at first nobody seemed to want to help me but I refused to leave. Finally a Russian lady was courteous and gave me professional help. Our tour guide never smiled for 10 days even when I tried to get to know him better. He did his job and it was a very good trip. I thought maybe he was mad at me. Others I met there seemed so American with smiles, exceptional knowledge, and going to great lengths to be helpful. When I over tipped, one asked me if I really intended to do that. I told her I thought she was definitely worth it. Great experience. Good people but tourists need to understand the culture.

[@jackwalker9439]

I suppose,that your tour guide has a problem with a teeth and thats why he didnt smiles.I m kidding.I lam russian person and wondering why the people not smile all my life.It makes me suffering sometimes.We got really lot good and kind people overhere,but why we are so weird? I cant find a respond.Maybe its kind of mistery? Ha ha

[@jamesrobinson6382]

@@jackwalker9439 I wanted to travel to Russia for a very long time before I actually went there. I hope to get there again and see some new places and meet some more nice people.

[@jamesrobinson6382]

Jack Walker, where do you live at this time? With the name Jack Walker it does not sound Russian. I have only been in the western part of Russia.

[@akaviral5476]

That moment when a Russian has been across more the US than I have 😅

[@bullitthead7853]

Haha, I was thinking the exact same thing while watching this!

[@troyverburg9600]

Same, I wouldn't mind seeing the world, but I feel like I need to see my own state and country first

[@jenniferlee6955]

😁 truth! Not to mention the huge expanse of Russia she has travelled. Impressive.

[@Egilhelmson]

At a place that I worked, we had lots of Russians, Ukrainians, and Australians working, too. We had an online game of state placement, and the winner was a Soviet Navy veteran.

[@kigman1980]

I just realized I’m a Russian born in an American citizens body

[@Leo-tf3rw]

😂😂

[@Osterochse]

you are a KGB agent that the CIA captured and brainwashed into believing that you are an American. The memories of your childhood are false. they were installed into you by a mind control device. it is only now that your true subconcious indentity surfaces.

[@marjoriegarner5369]

wonderful comment. Where are you?

[@marjoriegarner5369]

kigman1980, great comment. Where are you?

[@michaeltorrey3603]

Same here. I once had a criticism on my work evaluation that I never smiled (wtf). I also wonder why ask howdy or how you doing or how’s it going to someone when passing on the street and then keep walking? If you really cared why not wait for an answer?

[@richardx6884]

From my POV on why it makes us feel good when strangers smile at us; it tells me a few things without one spoken word, 1. even though they don't know me they decide I'm worth acknowledging, 2. We have an range of emotions we show on our faces so the fact someone picked a smile which is associated with comfort and happiness again builds me as a person. Fake smiles mean more than real ones most of the time, it means whatever the situation is that person doesn't want to smile but they try anyways thus making those things I just mention more important to that person than whatever reason they don't feel like smiling is. It takes a certain person to show those feeling when they don't have to so its not that they don't care about me we just don't have time to befriend every person we pass, if the situation was possible, its likely that stranger and I could be friends. Smiling at strangers is a non verbal way of saying "You have worth and I acknowledge that."

[@Hvitserk67]

I must say that I am impressed with the content of this channel. The insight and outlook on life that is conveyed is truly honest, thoughtful and intelligent. I am Norwegian and I recognize the slightly reserved appearance in relation to eg the Americans (generally speaking). Maybe the cold weather affects us or that we have large areas of land in relation to the population (most villages and towns in Norway are small and have relatively few inhabitants). I visited the United States a few times and it is a wonderful country despite great social challenges on several levels. People are generally nice and it is as you point out a light mood among people. Visiting Russia is an old dream. We are neighboring countries, but unfortunately we are still far apart. It's a shame, but luckily we have nice channels like this on KZbin that bring us closer to each other. Keep up the good work :)

[@returnofthemac2951]

As an American, I disagree with your comment about "great social challenges". Yes, there are some challenges, but the media magnifies everything to the extreme. Sometimes, I think we would be better off without the mass media since they don't seem to report factual news, but seem to want to manipulate mass consciousness.

[@Hvitserk67]

@@returnofthemac2951 I largely agree with you that the media is raising the issue. The United States still has the world's largest middle class and therefore the world's largest purchasing power. What I am primarily reacting to as a european is the huge difference between poor and fairly prosperous. I do not know if this is actually the situation in relation to Europe, which of course also has challenges with people being poor, but it is at least more visible in the United States. I do not know why, but it is not so common for people to live on the streets in Europe. Especially the northern part obviously due to the latitude and therefore really cold weather.

[@returnofthemac2951]

@@Hvitserk67 Many of the people living on the streets have mental issues. I suspect that a lot of it has to do with drug abuse. It's a good reason to not partake in that type of activity.

[@Hvitserk67]

@@returnofthemac2951 True. However, I think that quite a few have had mental problems because they live on the streets and that life is otherwise hopeless. It's hard to imagine what it's like to be in such a situation, but I'm pretty sure it's brutal and awful.

[@formica.]

@@Hvitserk67 ​ @Return of the Mac is right. In San Francisco for example, there are so many local/state/federal/NGO social programs, every person on the street could sleep inside, many do, but the ones you see want to be outside. The weather is mild, rain is only for 2 months in winter. The mental hospitals were mostly closed in the1990s because the leftists thought that was a violation of their human rights. So they are on the street and they don't get treated because they don't want to be. They and the drug users and criminals get free tents, food, medical, and they even have a "community" on the street. Many incentives for them. The normal residents suffer from the garbage the vagrants leave everywhere, and from all the petty crime, they need money every day for drugs, so every day they break into cars and homes and even rob tourists. The "social challenge" is political, every big US city except one is run by leftist Democrats who are not solving the problems of the poor on the street.

[@ianhamilton396]

Your English is really great. I watched your first video and now this. So great, congratulations......

[@ramongonzalez2112]

Haha. Good stuff.😊

[@bsobel1128]

That was fantastic!!

[@je-freenorman7787]

lol, um no its not. Its ok but great isnt the word to use sorry. Long way to go

[@ianhamilton396]

@@je-freenorman7787 With respect, I disagree. Things in life are often 'relative'; and here's why as it pertains to Natalia's command of English. 1. She lives in the Far East of Russia, in Khabarovsk, where the teaching of and use of English is very limited, and elementary at best. Hence, this is not Moscow nor SPB where a 'higher command' of English is prevalent. If one is working for a Western company like KPMG or Mars, for example, in Russia, you will understand the depth of English in the big cities versus the regions and smaller centres is different. 2. Upon returning from her stay in America, Natalia could probably teach English at a local school, English College or even the the local University and her English would be far superior to whomever is the current teacher. 3. Please don't confuse her accent with a command of or lack of English; this is a mistake we foreigners often make when judging someone's use of a second language. 4. Using the word 'great' in describing or complimenting a Russian for a particular skill or achievement is different than your interpretation of the Oxford definition of 'great'. 5. In my opinion, and given I live in Moscow, my friends are all Russian-native speakers, I can assure you that Natalia's English is great, all things being considered. 6. Given most Russians are humble and self-deprecating, she will likely tell you her English is not all that great, however, this is her DNA.

[@je-freenorman7787]

@@ianhamilton396 Thank you. Unfortunately, there can only be one truth. Russians are Arians. Just the way it is. Via Tartary. Masonic Architecture is very much present all over Russia. Formerly the Soviet Union. One must understand what Government is and how they operate. Natalia is learning. That's all. I commend her for it. If we tell her , her English is great, when its not, how does she feel about it? How does that help/hinder her?

[@mydigitallife8311]

When I got here 20 years ago I did notice all the smiles. I did like it. One teacher told me, -Smile you are here in the USA.!