I’ve often written about my love for Korea – did a whole series on it quite some time ago. And today I was reminded yet again about why I like the place so much.
It was a long, yet productive kind of day. Didn’t do much, but spent the day wandering through a couple of stores looking at stuff and getting ideas about home décor. We really haven’t done much to upgrade over the past several years – and we haven’t even had a sofa in over a year.
So after a bit of brunch at our favorite place for it, we went to IKEA and then the home furnishings place across the street. We didn’t do much more than look around, and maybe even got a few ideas for furniture, but that was enough. We got home after a few more stops, and it was already dinner time.
And we were feeling so good, we had to hit up Pak’s chicken for their fried, spicy chicken and a couple of beers. And this is where it really kicked in, because it seems I’m always reminded when I’m in there that Korea isn’t like the States. You’re practically sitting in the kitchen, and the owner treats you that way too. The conversation gets lively, and the rest of the patrons join in. You get the feeling that you’re Norm on Cheers. And it’s so funny when we’re sitting in there eating and Micha jumps into the conversation of the guys drinking two tables over like that’s something you do.
But it’s not, is it? Sure it is. At least in Micha’s world. There’s a sense of community and closeness there that I don’t see too often elsewhere (especially in the more populated areas of Korea). So what’s not to like about that? I’ve got a front-row seat on another way of living, and I think it helps me immensely. It gives me perspective that helps me understand more of the world.
It’s different, and I can’t help but feel thankful for that…
