One perk of being a Slavophile is that it puts you in touch with other Slavophiles and lovers of Eastern Europe. Not only can you share interests, exchange reading material, and be understood where others cease to understand, but you are automatically a part of a community that practices hospitality and welcomes all members graciously.
Eastern Europeans are known for their hospitality. If you're a guest at a non-Eastern European friend's house, they might tell you where the towels are. An Eastern European will bring you a towel. Your friend will point you to the couch. The Eastern European will make sure you have a bed - even if it's the only one in the house, and they will take the couch. In many households in Eastern Europe, your admiration for a decorative object will mean you'll be taking it home with you. Slavophiles, as non-Eastern Europeans, know how awkward that can be(who wants to carry an antique samovar on a plane?), so they'll probably be more lax about this requirement of Slavic hospitality. However, in other areas, they'll be keen to emulate the warm welcomes practiced by their Eastern European mentors.
Eastern Europeans are naturally curious about non-Eastern Europeans. And Slavophiles are keen to find others interested in Eastern Europe. These two groups of people want to know more about you and are happy to share their knowledge in return. So don't be afraid to seek out others like yourself. You'll be rewarded and make new friends who will treat you with respect, humanity, and courtesy.
Friday, June 01, 2007
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