The fact that we are placed in such a way that we avoid, earthquakes, volcanoes, tornadoes, monsoons and other overly devastating forces of nature (as well as the lack of deadly poisonous biting creatures and other large predatory animals).
- Oh this is a big one! Even though our weather has been pretty miserable sometimes with lots of rain, compared to some of the disasters some places have had we're really fortunate. British weather is really quite tame compared to most. It doesn't go to extremes very much.
- Also yeah the NHS (regardless of some its fault, its good everyone has access to healthcare regardless of their bank balance). It's simply not moral to allow someone to die, or get seriously ill in an affluent nation that can afford to care for them.
- I like our community spirit. The fact that we have a benefits system and recognising the good in helping those out less fortunate than ourselves. Some nations really do seem to have a much bigger self centered approach of 'it's my money, I don't want the government to force me to spend money on something I haven't agreed to'. Don't want to name specific countries in case its part of a flaming rule but some of you can probably take a good guess
- I love our sarcastic sense of humour. Other people don't seem to appreciate it enough
- Tea!
- The diverse groups of people and areas we have on such a small island! The fact you can drive along a road for half an hour and be in an area with a completely different accent is rather unusual.
- Also like the fact capital punishment and guns are illegal
- I like the fact you can visit different places, such as coastal areas, countryside and cities quite quickly without having to drive 100's of miles like some countries.
- I like our rich history, and that it goes way back. I like all the historical attractions that come with this, such as ancient castles, cathedrals etc.
Yeah Pogue I've heard British people apologise more than most. I think a big one is when you bump into someone in the street and say 'sorry'. Sometimes it's not even apologising, it's like you're just a bit startled and a bit taken aback. I've heard that's a bit of a British habit.
It's weird though, I never really felt like someone who was that patriotic until I became more aware of other countries and different cultures. I think once you are, you move past this ignorant assumption that pretty much everywhere is just like, or very similar to Britain. I think when you've always lived in one country and haven't travelled much or read up on other places, that's far too easy to do.
That's all I can think of for now...great thread!
with a dash of sand and being dive bombed by seagulls whilst trying to eat your soggy bag of hot donuts!
