Cultural Assimilation

I am all about 'fitting' in to my new surroundings. I love this new home, and don't want to stand out as the arrogant Californian, or however it is we are perceived outside of our home state. Granted, I am merely in a different state and not a different country, but the cultural differences are prominent. And a few of those differences I just can't get behind. I will never be able to call a plastic grocery bag, a sack. I will always call it the freeway or highway and will not refer to it as the interstate. And soda will never be pop. Sorry Nebraska.

I understand the necessity of being sensitive to other cultures' customs, and I really am trying. For the most part, it has been an easy adjustment to this mid-west way of life, but occasionally differences come up that present a slight tug-of-war. Case in point; the parking lots here make no sense, and lack a sensible amount of entrances/exits. But this frustration, I found out, should be kept to myself. For, when I mention it to the natives, they get offended and feel like I am lecturing them in a holier than though tone. I'm really not, but regardless, that is a 'Omahan' cultural norm I am trying to be quiet about, well except for the fact that I am broadcasting it all over the internet, but that is beside the point!

Part of wanting to 'blend-in' is to somehow avoid the whole 'Oh-you're-from-California-why-on-God's-green-earth-did-you-move-to-Omaha-especially-in-the-winter!?!?!' comments. At first, I kinda wanted people to know my special secret. That a Californian was in their midst. You know, my small claim to fame, in an area filled with people that so desperately want to visit/live in California. But that novelty soon wore off and I just wish the subject wouldn't come up anymore. I want people to assume that I am from Nebraska. I guess I really should change my license plates and license in order for that to be truly effective!

I guess there will always be bumps along the road, or potholes in this case. But for the most part, this culture suits me just fine. I love the slower pace, the friendly faces, the multitude of children everywhere, the low cost of living, the upbeat attitude, and the knowledge that I am home.