Without words

http://articles.latimes.com/2010/may/01/world/la-fg-korea-interpreter-20100501

Especially in Asian languages, actions can speak louder than words. Being polite or showing a certain amount of respect in simple things such as handing things over to another person are important even though it is not particularly stated. Receiving an award with one hand would be extremely disrepectful and I learned this lesson the hard way when I was little.

I find it amazing that such small things such as one hand versus two can make a huge dynamic difference but it really is important to show signs of respect. When I was little, I never understood why people made such a big deal about passing napkins over with two hands but then as I grew older, just watching Americans do things such as throw a napkin across the table made me realize that such a small act would make a huge difference in perception.

Each culture has its own beliefs and rules. And the article is correct in saying that because more interracial marriages are occuring, each culture must be a little more open about the way others act. On the other hand, one does not need to lose its culture just because everyone else is diversifying. Having respect or speaking politely does not need to be lose in one culture just because another culture does not believe it to be quite the same. The beliefs of one are extremely important in maintaining culture.