Just be Happy to Have a Glass

I find it very interesting that while touring through foreign countries, I overhear "Americans" complaining about the culture and lifestyles of the places that they are visiting. I find it intriguing at best to listen in on these conversations. Often people complain about the social skills of others, or living conditions. The most common complaint is the driving skills of others. However; if you are visiting a country that had no formal driver training courses until 2 years ago - you'll have a lot to complain about if that is your goal. Sure it is frustrating, sure it can feel very dangerous to be sharing the road with some of these drivers and you're right, no one can ever drive better then you, ever.
I'm not saying you shouldn't drive (although it may be a good suggestion) instead what I ask is that you change you're attitude before you go into cardiac arrest. Bare in mind, some of these countries do not have formal driver training, others have recently implemented such training and others rely on the family to teach their children and themselves through the process of trial and error. Instead of being upset by the fact that the guy in the left lane decided to turn right, be excited that they used their turn signal to do so, because they typically don't use their turn signals, for anything. Instead of criticizing the cold showers and lack of air conditioning appreciate the simplicity of living within your means, even if that means a house with no doors and a long clothesline draped across the yard. Instead of looking at someone with downcast eyes because they do not speak English, realize that you are in their world and welcome their smile into your life.
You will not always be the majority, and sometimes things will happen that will knock you down to your knees, understand in your heart, that others have been there and conquered their demons (like you will), often by beginning to appreciate the small things and the simple beauty of life its self.
Some people see the glass as half full, some people see the glass is half empty, and some are just as happy to have a glass at all; strive to be like the last one.