Being European isn’t easy. One of the world’s most combative continents, distinctly recognisable countries, borders fought and played for. The weight of this inherited history and people’s cultural baggage can be heavy. Not everyone is ready to call it a day or look to tomorrow.
As seen from the British Isles, the Continent is enviably – frank. Altogether straightforward. Nuanced yes, complex yes, but eminently open. The British, classically – not so. Subtlety is valued here. The understatement. Fiendish puns. What matters here is lack of direct conflict. No to scenes!
Distilled in words, here are my touchstone points of guidance: politeness; privacy; courtesy; small talk; independence; irony; self-love; free will; no staring; personal space; initiative; please and thank you.
Advice from the Continent? Insight. Generosity of spirit. Intellectual debate. Know yourself. Take onboard. Truth is truth. Togetherness. Warmth. Do for others. Free speech. Rise above. Dream.