I just thought I’d comment quickly on this phrase that I seem to keep coming across. Of course, living in the U.S. you never hear the term, but now that I’m across the pond I hear it quite often. “It’s too American” or “Too much Americanism in this conference”, etc. Let me interpret: “It’s too peppy” “It’s too positive”…basically ”I hate my life and all things that make me smile”. Well, maybe not the last one.
When I’ve asked people to explain, they say it means too positive, too upbeat, to fake, too cheesy… So I just want to get one thing straight. My love for life is real. My positive outlook on life is real. My love for humanity and always finding the good in people are real.
I refuse to take part in “Englishisms” (if I may borrow the crappy use of stereotypes). I will not complain about the weather. I will not talk bad about other people and I refuse to find the need to point out the negative of EVERY situation.
Now, some people may say that it’s the fake happiness they come across in America that they don’t like. I can explain that. You’ve probably encountered it in a restaurant. Apart from the fact that servers in restaurants do not accurately represent the rest of the country, in these situations, being nice pays the bills. The people serving you depend on your tip. They make zero dollars an hour after taxes. When your survival is crucial on how well you please a fatty at your table, trust me, you’d be putting on a big cheesy smile too.
Anyway, I don’t think being optimistic is a problem, trust me, there are a lot of negative nancies in the U.S. too, it’s a personal choice. So to all you debbie downers who can’t stand “americanism” I leave you with one of my favorite quotes by Maya Angelou: “If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change your attitude.”
Hmm, now wasn’t that a cheery little post?
Filed under: Uncategorized | Leave a Comment »








