Being Foreign: The other side of the equation

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Re: Being Foreign: The other side of the equation
« Reply #15 on: March 30, 2010, 11:53:08 AM »
Historically, the dominant cultures have not made wholesale efforts to learn the language of the subjugated/non-dominant cultures.

Is it arrogant to expect everyone in China to understand English? Sure.

Is it unique to western culture or to western culture present and past? Not at all.

Does it make it "right"? I don't think so.

In China, I live a so-called western lifestyle because the school provides me with a western toilet, paid utilities, hot water and a modicum of privacy. Is this a bad thing? Again, I don't think so.

Can I not be a foreigner in China? Perhaps in my mind it is possible, but as long as I live in the host country, I will always be regarded as the foreigner. For me, it's not a bad thing.
I count my blessings when I consider the plight of the boneless chicken.