People in the Midwest truly are friendlier.
For one, if I were to go through a McDonald's drive-thru, not only am I greeted warmly and with the kind of energy and positivity found in the Chapter President of any Team Jacob Club, I am also bid farewell with the same enthusiasm. What a stark contrast from the asian or hispanic I would typically get in Boston where I'd be constantly worried that they'd get my order wrong (This is if I were to actually go through a McDonald's drive-thru, of course).
The other day, I went to a local grocery store near my office to grab some 1% milk and a quick lunch. I was stopped by nearly every employee and was asked if I was finding everything okay or if there was anything they could help me with. Some of these employees spoke slower to me than others. Was I the only minority in this supermarket? Yes. Does that take away from the niceness? Absolutely not.
I had a coupon for a free oil change for being new to the area. I could end there but I think it's worth mentioning that I had the most charming conversation with the shop owner and his handyman about weather, owning land, maintaining a home, being home for supper...not only did I feel like I was being accepted in this new area, I felt like I was being ushered into a new social club. I would now refuse an oil change whereupon I did not receive such personal attention. I mattered. My car mattered. And now, if I get another free oil change voucher, I will go back again.
Welcome to the area. It's great to have you here.
ReplyDeleteGreat blog concept! Am excited to hear your comparisons of the East and Midwest. J says it's an invasion of his privacy when people ask where he lives--I think it's more because he doesn't know whether he lives north, south, east, or west of Minneapolis. I think I've become a more bitter/curt person after spending time on the east coast. Sometimes I just want to get my milk and go home.
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