What’s a cultural tradition from another country that you wish existed in yours?

In other prompts, I’ve already mentioned that I’m Greek but was born and raised in Germany. This fostered a sense of growing up in a multicultural environment, where I experienced not only predominantly the German culture but also other European cultural traditions, since there were immigrants from Italy, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Spain, Serbia, Albania, Turkey, etc.

So, which cultural tradition do I wish existed in mine? Well, it’s not exactly a cultural tradition, but more of a mindset.

We Greeks tend to be very passionate about politics and political parties; we are used to discussing our political views openly, wherever we are, whether at home, in a café, or at a tavern. It has even happened that family members have quarreled over politics.

In Germany, the opposite is true; people are more reserved about politics and keep their opinions to themselves. I remember asking my German friend who she voted for, a natural question for Greeks, but she didn’t tell me. I think this sentiment stems from their history, particularly Hitler. They are more careful now about political decisions and how they express them.

And that’s the point, Greeks should adopt a bit of that. No problem engaging with politics, but do it in a reserved way and not too much out in the open.