A post.
Working at a mall I can't help but notice how stupid (but it is that really the right word?) Americans are. At college, I sort of forget that ignorant, ghetto, uneducated people exist. Oh, how silly of me, I know. But, why not enjoy a good thing while you have it? Now, this is not to say everyone I run across is stupid, overweight off fast food, uneducated, and a bad representation of our country...but it's those people that stick out in my mind. They certainly do make an impression. How can they not, when they obviously attract so much attention to themselves with their attitude and unchecked behavior?
But, let me back track here...I will not deny that I have come from a (somewhat) privileged background. I do not say this to sound pretentious or arrogant, but merely to explain how I have been shaped. I have known from the offset that I was different from other people. (I mean, in fourth grade my idea of a perfect recess was going out and collecting leaves to put them in my desk). I have not been raised in the ghetto, or an abusive environment-- and being surrounded by said people is not normal. However, it seems to me that so much of America is, or is becoming this way. Not necessarily ghetto, which is another thing entirely, dealing mainly with class and social issues--but having no drive, or ambition, or even interest in the world. It is one thing to be raised in a bad environment, and this to limit your opportunities...but I think it is another thing for your own limitations to be set in your mind. Even if a person was raised in an environment which did not inspire creativity, or thinking beyond ones means...what about the undeniable curiosity of humans to want to discover things unknown? Is this where my expectations fall short? I believe in the strength, determination and ability of humans but oh so often I am left disappointed. What does this say of me, however? That my standards are too high? That I am idealistic? Or just sheltered and foolish? I think not. I think that although my background has taught me to be wary, street smart, and cautious around people that could be potentially dangerous, having a continual desire and faith in people to improve themselves, to find strength from within is from my lack of cynicism. Now, granted, everyone can be cynical--and lord knows I can be as well. But, when cynicism takes over ones attitude, it can inspire no good in a person and only bring the downfall of those surrounding them. When such attitudes, and lack of excitement and external stimulation become apparent, it only inhibits the potential of the person.
But, going back to the mall people...maybe, it just happens to be that the people who I perceive as stupid and ignorant (plus their growing numbers) are just merely unstimulated. However, if stimulation was offered, would or could they change? Has their environment impacted them so much that they are stuck in their ways? I believe so. I, for one, doubt I could ever pull off a ghetto person, talk smack, or just look at ease in such an environment. But, maybe it is having the desire to want to change. If people are open to the idea, than I believe it is possible.
These are just some thoughts I have been having...as I sit here, while I am supposed to be working...but no one customers come to make me do so.
Speaking of independent research, although chai is not a very summery drink, I find myself longing to be experimental. I think that before I make the trek to Japan, I will finally go to the few Indian Grocers we have in town. (We also have a Indian Fabric store--Kasala fabrics that has always tempted me.) I want to get some good Indian spices to attempt to make some good Indian chai. Doesn't that sounds lovely? Too bad I associate chai with the winter time. Nothing says winter like a spicy cup of that brew.
If you want to make your own chai, here is a really good website I found that explains what chai is, and various recipes on how you can make your own.
http://www.odie.org/chai/index.html