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Summary

An American ex-pat reflects on the cultural differences and reverse culture shock experienced after moving from Norway to Kentucky, noting the strong community, constant availability of services, and the peculiarity of water levels in toilets.

Abstract

The author, an American who has been living in Norway, shares their personal journey of adapting to life back in the United States, specifically in Kentucky. They contrast the community support and service availability between Oslo and Kentucky, highlighting the unexpected convenience of businesses being open every day, yet questioning the impact of this on work-life balance. The author also humorously notes the difference in toilet water levels between the two countries. The narrative is interspersed with invitations to join Medium for ad-free content and to support writers, including the author, through a membership.

Opinions

  • The author is impressed by the strong sense of community in Kentucky, exemplified by their mother receiving meals and a card from her bank after surgery.
  • They appreciate the convenience of businesses being open all the time, including Sundays, which is a contrast to the more limited hours in Oslo.
  • The author is somewhat critical of the always-open business culture, pondering its effect on people's rest and well-being.
  • There is a humorous observation about the difference in water levels in toilets between Norway and the U.S., with the latter having significantly more water.

An Outside View Of The Inside: New Hometown Reflections

Photo by Lisa Fotios from Pexels

As an American ex-pat living in Norway, I’ve adapted to the cultural differences. Now I’m muddling through reverse-culture shock in Kentucky.

My first week I wrote about my initial impressions. Here‘s what I’ve reflected on since then (in no particular order):

The sense of community is strong

My mom had surgery on her hip and received three meals on her doorstep and a get-well card from her bank. This definitely wouldn’t happen in Oslo.

Things are open all the time

No need to plan around Sundays. Everything is open 7 days a week with long hours. I love the convenience. But I also wonder who really wins when no one gets a break.

And last, but not least:

Why is there so much water in the toilets?

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