There is a difference between looking and looking. The first is when you see your surroundings without being cognitively aware of what you’re seeing. The second one is where you actively record what you see. Today I have been walking through the streets of Cusco, and looking at my surroundings.
If the streets were a painting, it’s amazing how the colors become so much more vivid when you consciously take them in. For me, what made the painting explode with a fusion of colors was seeing so many loved ones sharing their affection so openly—mothers holding their teenage daughters’ hands, friends linking arms as they walked, and couples holding each other close, stealing kisses now and then.
It makes me curious how behavioral traits like these have become natural in one culture but not in another. What role do history or religion play in shaping a culture into what it is today? For example, when I think about my home country, the Netherlands, I rarely see people displaying affection in public. If I’m lucky, I might spot a couple holding hands—but no arm-linking or embracing
One culture isn’t better than the other, but I’ve noticed that I really enjoy it when people visibly express their love. Writing this makes me laugh, as I can already hear some of my friends saying, “There’s a limit. If people are French kissing in the street, they should get a room.” But honestly, when I see that happen, I secretly smile and think, “love that for you”. Because who wouldn’t want to experience love so passionately that it feels like you’re floating in your own little pink bubble from time to time? I know I would.
It simply warms my heart to see people share their love so openly.
