How are being treated or notice anything...

[slickmetal]

How are you being treated or notice anything different or anything better now that you can roam around off-base freely?

[Fonze]

Not trying to be a grammer nazi, but it's how are you.

I will tell you later.

[Asshat]

I notice a lot of women have been flashing me lately.

[Fonze]

Flashing you the bird cause your showing them your junk.

[Asshat]

Flashing you the bird cause your showing them your junk.

lol! I would never do that, and prove how small I really was Fonze!

Seriously, I have noted nothing different.

[dweener]

I am still afraid to go off base. I am waiting for a "just kidding" announcement while i am at coco's.

[badkitty]

Well I went to McDonald's out side Gate 2 at KAB and I got a couple of stares but that was about it. Also, I went to Family Mart and it was all smiles. So far so good!! :)

[DougP]

I noticed a few smiles from the staff at Coco's and a couple of bewildered looks on some passer-bys. It feels great to be out of the cage.:)

[acidcrash]

Just got back from Makeman. Nothing unusual......

[slickmetal]

Well under peer pressure I went to Tantan...packed to the gills....

Seemed to be the same to me, but yes some stares....

[Kye77]

Usual uneasy looks on the road. No one pays attention to an Asian, I blend in easily until I open my mouth.

[Rollin_J's]

I just returned from paying the rent, hitting Family Mart to pay the bills, and stopping off at the Sushi shop on 329 by Route 6 (or 8) and everyone was very courteous and outwardly friendly. I did have a joker in a Blue Chaser Tour V cut me off and pop his turbo....guess what....Y Plate....lol...He probably thought my car was a threat to him and had to show off..may look like a turbo........but its N/A baby...no worries...your manhood is safe.

[The Truth™]

How are you being treated or notice anything different or anything better now that you can roam around off-base freely?


Too early to tell. I think the anti-base zealots are plotting another dropped charges incident.

[Daniela]

Went to the Maxvalue and the fruit market. Everything seems to be the same so far.

[dweener]

ok, went to ono kau kau..........all american!!
And the food, everything i hoped for.
No more lockdowns please, you are messing up my eating out flow...haha

[dweener]

Usual uneasy looks on the road. No one pays attention to an Asian, I blend in easily until I open my mouth.

haha! Kye, your funny.:thumbup:

[okisteve]

I just returned from paying the rent, hitting Family Mart to pay the bills, and stopping off at the Sushi shop on 329 by Route 6 (or 8) and everyone was very courteous and outwardly friendly. I did have a joker in a Blue Chaser Tour V cut me off and pop his turbo....guess what....Y Plate....lol...He probably thought my car was a threat to him and had to show off..may look like a turbo........but its N/A baby...no worries...your manhood is safe.

Sounds like there'll be some real competition for who's going down first.:thumbdown::thumbdown:

[EpicTrainwreck]

I was harassed, sneered at, bludgeoned with several ladies' purses, and made to feel like some sort of sexual deviant. And then my wife let me go out.

[proudtobnotpc]

I was harassed, sneered at, bludgeoned with several ladies' purses, and made to feel like some sort of sexual deviant. And then my wife let me go out.
Damn I guess there are other wives out there like mine- share the pain bro, share the pain:thumbup:

[Fire4Effect]

Does this mean I can retaliate against those who keyed my car? At least until 2200.

[okitomi]

When I go out I get strange looks from all people…So the same!

[Cerebus]

I went out after i got home from work,noticed some high school girls looking at me so I decided to cross the street and go home:cool:
got the same usual looks and stares though.

[wefukmyung]

I thought it was business as usual. I sat and watched the eye candy from my vantage point at Mihama Starbucks. I just love short dark blue skirts and lots of legs.

[dk]

looking is fine .............................I suppose it is anyway:-|
Just don't try to talk one home or even kiss one:thumbdown:
And absolutely positively DO NOT forcefully take their cell phone. This is a huge no-no in Japan, comparable to rape.

[whatthe...!!]

Went to Coco's and it was a damn zoo. I think every American from Foster was trying to eat there.

[Courtney]

Went to the Maxvalue and the fruit market. Everything seems to be the same so far.

sorry to be such a "newbie" where is this fruit market you speek of?! =)

Today i brought the kiddos to BigDip and Jusco, nothing seemed out of the norm, Everyone staring at the mad white lady with the crazy kids! :scared::thumbup:

[dweener]

sorry to be such a "newbie" where is this fruit market you speek of?! =)

Today i brought the kiddos to BigDip and Jusco, nothing seemed out of the norm, Everyone staring at the mad white lady with the crazy kids! :scared::thumbup:

Mad lady and crazy kids? That sounds like comedy!

[okisteve]

Does this mean I can retaliate against those who keyed my car? At least until 2200.

OK, if you're planning to stick around until then, but the Marines are gone in 2012.

Damn, I forgot my buddy::rolleyes::rolleyes::rolleyes::rolleyes:

[Anterrabae]

Not trying to be a grammer nazi, but it's how are you.

I will tell you later.

oh, the irony

[Alana]

agree its too early to tell, many americans will be out over the next week or two looking for the dirty looks and stares, expecting them, went to the mall this evening, and then to sushi, every one was polite, maybe staring but i dont know if its any more than usual. i really didnt pay that much attention, i was nice and smiled often, as usual.

[badstreetusa]

No dirty looks, just the same ol' Okinawa. Today at the restaraunt I went too they were so happy to see me...

[watzitoou]

I was out all day and got back on base after 2330. When shopping earlier to the bunny holding a flower, sorry don't know the name of it. I got lot of stare's from an elderly family shopping. All the times I have shopped there before, never had any stare's. But then maybe it was cuz I got 4 phone calls during the time I was there and spoke 1/2 Japanese and English!! :scared: Went to my usual places, everyone was so happy to see me and my kids. Went to my Okinawan friends house, they invited us for dinner, ended up staying there until 2300. Here back on KAB, noticed everyone was home except us!! :ohmy:

[Crash]

went to auto box with a friend to get him a wiring kit for his car... no unusual looks there, just smiles and that good ol Okinawan happiness

[swindland]

didn't notice anything:D

[P_chan]

Got a few stares once I went to mcdonalds to pick up some lunch in uniform. Nothing out of the ordinary though.

[Muku]

Got a few stares once I went to mcdonalds to pick up some lunch in uniform. Nothing out of the ordinary though.
I just think that people are more sensitive about it now than before.

All the people that are commenting about the stares probably didnt realize that it was happening all the other times they were off base.

Might be a good thing too in my opinion, in that now they are learning to be a bit more self conscious and low key. Which in my opinion is a good thing. Maybe now more people when going out wont be so loud and obnoxious and so "American"

[P_chan]

All the people that are commenting about the stares probably didnt realize that it was happening all the other times they were off base.

Exactly! That's why I've been telling everybody! A coworker of mine was complaining that she was getting stared at more while off base. I just told her that they've always stared and that she just didn't pay attention before.

[hamsterhuey]

Which in my opinion is a good thing. Maybe now more people when going out wont be so loud and obnoxious and so "American"

Now...if only we could get those Okinawans on motorcycles to not rev their engines and sound so..."American":rolleyes:

[slickmetal]

Now...if only we could get those Okinawans on motorcycles to not rev their engines and sound so..."American":rolleyes:

same with all those fart can mufflers....and I care not for your blow off valve either.

[Tigaberra]

Lots of rude looks

[P_chan]

Lots of rude looks

Could you elaborate please? I've haven't noticed any extra looks yet. Sure I get stared at because I'm different looking then everyone else. But when haven't Japanese/Okinawan people off base stared at me? I've always said that a lot of people off base have a staring problem.

Little kids don't count, they stare no matter what.

[Muku]

Lots of rude looks

Could you define a "rude" look please.

Oh and welcome to the board, interesting 1st post.

[Ammoyankee]

While sitting outside waiting for my daughter to finish her Soroban class, I noticed the parents paying close attention when children were playing close to where I was sitting. So, I don't know if that was just abnormal attention for Okinawan parents or they were watching because I was American.

A few weeks ago at Mihama Starbucks, some Okinawa City cops that were driving through went out of their way to give us a hard time for parking our motorcycles on the sidewalk. Yet we have been meeting here quite some time with the blessing of Starbucks. The cops from the Koban around the corner of the building have even told us it was ok to meet there as long as we didn't park our bikes as to block the crosswalk entrances or the blind markings on the ground. While the copper was being pissy with us about parking, little punk local kids on scooters were wheelieing by and doing circles in the middle of the intersection and weren't even wearing helmets. This kind of pissed me off as the cops didn't seem concerned about things actually occurring on the roads.

Other than that, life has been normal. The older people I pass on the sidewalks still give me the pleasantries of the day and life is still good!

[okisteve]

Could you elaborate please? I've haven't noticed any extra looks yet. Sure I get stared at because I'm different looking then everyone else. But when haven't Japanese/Okinawan people off base stared at me? I've always said that a lot of people off base have a staring problem.

Little kids don't count, they stare no matter what.


So let's get it straight. Is staring rude, or not?

I am pretty happy with how little I get stared at by Okinawans. Sometimes I get a very quick glance (people in my area probably never see a gaijin in the stores), but that's all. I spend a lot of time in my garden, which is on a corner where lots of schoolkids and older folks walk by. There are plenty of gaps in the hedge, but I never catch anyone staring in. That takes a lot of self-control because I usually have some music or news playing too. Given how Japanese all avoid eye contact, I suspect they are also taught that it is not good behavior for them to stare at anyone.

[Crazysix]

IM being treated badly beer isnt quit as cold as use to be....its a DAMN CONSPIRACY

[P_chan]

Staring can be rude, depends on the situation. If it's more like a glance, then it's no big deal. But if you're staring at someone like they have a freaking horn growing out of their head then it's rude IMO.

[Tony Stacks]

Staring can be rude, depends on the situation. If it's more like a glance, then it's no big deal. But if you're staring at someone like they have a freaking horn growing out of their head then it's rude IMO.

Is it ok to stare if they do have a horn comming out of their head?

[hankypanky]

So let's get it straight. Is staring rude, or not?

I am pretty happy with how little I get stared at by Okinawans. Sometimes I get a very quick glance (people in my area probably never see a gaijin in the stores), but that's all. I spend a lot of time in my garden, which is on a corner where lots of schoolkids and older folks walk by. There are plenty of gaps in the hedge, but I never catch anyone staring in. That takes a lot of self-control because I usually have some music or news playing too. Given how Japanese all avoid eye contact, I suspect they are also taught that it is not good behavior for them to stare at anyone.

hell i stare at high school girls in skirts everyday:D

[Trail]

You are all in a foreign country, no matter how long you have lived here, you stick out. If you are being stared at, just smile. It's a good way to defuse animosity or an uncomfortable situation.

[P_chan]

Is it ok to stare if they do have a horn comming out of their head?

What do you think? If you saw a burn victim walking down the street with a horribly disfigured face, would you stare at them?

[Tony Stacks]

What do you think? If you saw a burn victim walking down the street with a horribly disfigured face, would you stare at them?


Wow somebody does'nt understand the world of joking.

[vvloc]

Wow somebody does'nt understand the world of joking.

Who doe'snt?

[Muku]

Is it ok to stare if they do have a horn comming out of their head?
Well I have seen quite a few Japanese that stare at the handicap people that sometimes are brought in by a volunteer group at JUSCO.

The staring isnt limited to "gaijin". Many stare at anything out of their ordinary world.

[ButtCheekz]

It seems to me that eveyone is doing well. Me on the other hand am not. I live in the Awase Area and have all Japanese Neighbors. Before all these wonderful typical retarded Military incidents took place my neighbors were cool, let my girlfriend park in a vacant spot on my neighbors property because her vehicle is so big. Now after all these Shennigans that have gone on, my neighbors have done a complete 180. Now they give me dirty looks, yell at my girlfriend for parking in a vacant spot?!?! It's really getting to the point where I am thinking about moving. It's so sad that the Japanese are so easily taken by what their media tells them...(Hmm what does that sound like? **Cough** Americans..) Anywho, Its really pitiful what happened with all of these but unfortunately it's the nature of the beast. Just be careful out there fellow Americans, my girlfriend almost got run off the road when she was driving my car right after these incidents took place.

[Muku]

It seems to me that eveyone is doing well. Me on the other hand am not. I live in the Awase Area and have all Japanese Neighbors. Before all these wonderful typical retarded Military incidents took place my neighbors were cool, let my girlfriend park in a vacant spot on my neighbors property because her vehicle is so big. Now after all these Shennigans that have gone on, my neighbors have done a complete 180. Now they give me dirty looks, yell at my girlfriend for parking in a vacant spot?!?! It's really getting to the point where I am thinking about moving. It's so sad that the Japanese are so easily taken by what their media tells them...(Hmm what does that sound like? **Cough** Americans..) Anywho, Its really pitiful what happened with all of these but unfortunately it's the nature of the beast. Just be careful out there fellow Americans, my girlfriend almost got run off the road when she was driving my car right after these incidents took place.

Dont know why but I highly doubt that you are going to come back here and answer this but I hope you do, anyway.......:)

Did you or your gf ask your neighbors ahead of time for permission to park there?

Its a shame too that so many American's believe what "their" media tells them too......sounds like a world wide problem of assumptions.

[Sex Wax]

How are you being treated or notice anything different or anything better now that you can roam around off-base freely?

Well, before people treated me indifferently...now, people treat me like I dont even exist!.. I just wish peeps would take the time to get to know me!...I bath every Saturday just like everyone else! I put both feet in my board shorts at the same time the same as regular people (i fall down sometimes). I drink my beer from the open end! Give a bro a hug! Sorry, i must go vomit and pass out in the tub again. KEEP IT REALS!

:barf:

[BleuEneG]

what I notice every time we are around children is that they are fascinated with my daughter. We went to a park this past weekend and it was so cute to see all these little kids just smile at her and follow her lead as she played on the playground equipment. My husband got hungry and went to a little snack stand nearby and he got a hand wave from the guy when we drove by about an hour later.

I think alot of the locals like to see families if we come with he attitude that we are there to not take away from the island as if we are owed something but just enjoy it and spread some joy to the residents. I think when they see a family spending time together and smiling they see us as not so different from themselves. Yeah they still see us as foreingers but we are happy foreingers who want to be their friends.

[socalheart]

Is your child a towhead? The local kids are often attracted to them as an oddity first. Kids typically get along regardless anyhow. On the other thing, going out as a fun-loving family is going to garner a more positive reaction from the locals than a single drunk male. Everyone likes seeing a well-behaved family outting. :)

[P_chan]

You mean they don't like it once a drunk guy breaks into their house and falls asleep on their couch?

[BleuEneG]

Is your child a towhead? The local kids are often attracted to them as an oddity first. Kids typically get along regardless anyhow. On the other thing, going out as a fun-loving family is going to garner a more positive reaction from the locals than a single drunk male. Everyone likes seeing a well-behaved family outting. :)

Wow socal so you think it's the haircolor? hmmm..well my daughter has light brown hair with golden blonde highlights. so maybe that's it.

I am wondering though if maybe some people look at me and think I could possible be asian and here I am with my anglo husband and daughter. So maybe we are not a threat to them plus we are like big happy kids when we are around other children.

[NotSoAverageWife]

I went to the Micky D's outside the housing gate by Foster...the man looked to be a manager or something...but anyways he didn't seem too happy to have my daughter and I in there. He kinda tossed our food on the tray and just had a look on his face that pretty much said it all. Everywhere else, has been just fine though.

[Muku]

I went to the Micky D's outside the housing gate by Foster...the man looked to be a manager or something...but anyways he didn't seem too happy to have my daughter and I in there. He kinda tossed our food on the tray and just had a look on his face that pretty much said it all. Everywhere else, has been just fine though.

Did you guys smell or something? :eek:

[Bones]

As posted by "NotSoAverageWife":

I went to the Micky D's outside the housing gate by Foster...the man looked to be a manager or something...but anyways he didn't seem too happy to have my daughter and I in there. He kinda tossed our food on the tray and just had a look on his face that pretty much said it all. Everywhere else, has been just fine though.

Not sure what your complaint is NSOW, but just going by what I've seen on-base, I wouldn't want a lot of mothers with their kids off-base either.

Running around, yelling, screaming, with those damned sneaker wheelies, etc...

Take them to the Mess Hall, at least they can play with someone their own age. At least: "mentally".

Bones


BTW: I approved this message.

[NotSoAverageWife]

As posted by "NotSoAverageWife":



Not sure what your complaint is NSOW, but just going by what I've seen on-base, I wouldn't want a lot of mothers with their kids off-base either.

Running around, yelling, screaming, with those damned sneaker wheelies, etc...

Take them to the Mess Hall, at least they can play with someone their own age. At least: "mentally".

Bones


BTW: I approved this message.

I know what you mean. I see so many kids running around and not know how to act. However, thats not ok with me...and I do not allow my daughter to act like that.

[Gadget]

As posted by "NotSoAverageWife":



Not sure what your complaint is NSOW, but just going by what I've seen on-base, I wouldn't want a lot of mothers with their kids off-base either.

Running around, yelling, screaming, with those damned sneaker wheelies, etc...

Take them to the Mess Hall, at least they can play with someone their own age. At least: "mentally".

Bones


BTW: I approved this message.


If you're saying Japanese/Okinawan kids are better behaved, you don't get out much do you?

Those "sneaker wheelies" are getting to be more popular with the local kids too.

[P_chan]

If you're saying Japanese/Okinawan kids are better behaved, you don't get out much do you?

Those "sneaker wheelies" are getting to be more popular with the local kids too.

I don't think he was hinting at that at all. Maybe you just automatically assumed that's what he meant?

I see where bones is coming from though. Some people really need to control their kids once out in public.

[Muku]

I don't think he was hinting at that at all. Maybe you just automatically assumed that's what he meant?

I see where bones is coming from though. Some people really need to control their kids once out in public.

Gotta agree with you here P, seeing as how Bones has kids of his own and has been living here since before the invasion:dead:

What I often find amusing is people that think just because some guy at Mc D's or any other person in a service related position gives a "gaijin" a look, they automatically intrepret it to be a slight against them. It's almost as if they are looking for an excuse to find something wrong with anyone that looks at them a bit differently, it's a conspiracy.:rolleyes:

[Sex Wax]

Is this the new "A sign"? I'm not sure if I like the idea of patrols being able to come into the bar.

http://www.clubfuji.com/Pics/2008/April%202008/aprilpicspag1/images/DSC03032_JPG.jpg

[BleuEneG]

Gotta agree with you here P, seeing as how Bones has kids of his own and has been living here since before the invasion:dead:

What I often find amusing is people that think just because some guy at Mc D's or any other person in a service related position gives a "gaijin" a look, they automatically intrepret it to be a slight against them. It's almost as if they are looking for an excuse to find something wrong with anyone that looks at them a bit differently, it's a conspiracy.:rolleyes:[/B]

i don't know if looking at someone weird is part of the conspriacy but what the hell does McDonalds put in their food that makes a person depressed the next day? That happy meal today will mean a bummer day tommarrow.

But seriously as I read through these last few threads it does look like it can be taken that your're all going against someone who is new here. All she did was try to join in on the convo and why slam her? i am only speaking up because I know when I first got here I thought I was being recieved in the wrong way too ...this whole forum thing has process for some. Just be aware and give folks the benefit of the doubt.

[P_chan]

But seriously as I read through these last few threads it does look like it can be taken that your're all going against someone who is new here. All she did was try to join in on the convo and why slam her? i am only speaking up because I know when I first got here I thought I was being recieved in the wrong way too ...this whole forum thing has process for some. Just be aware and give folks the benefit of the doubt.

Are you trying to say that if we are skeptical about the details and/or don't agree with what someone says (and they're new to the forum) we shouldn't post an opposing view? User's should just keep their mouth shut and mind their business? All because someone is new to the forum? While I agree we should be welcoming to new members. I don't think anyone should tip toe around a subject a new users brings up, just because they're new. IMHO if someone can't take criticism then they shouldn't post.

[BleuEneG]

Are you trying to say that if we are skeptical about the details and/or don't agree with what someone says (and they're new to the forum) we shouldn't post an opposing view? User's should just keep their mouth shut and mind their business? All because someone is new to the forum? While I agree we should be welcoming to new members. I don't think anyone should tip toe around a subject a new users brings up, just because they're new. IMHO if someone can't take criticism then they shouldn't post.

Leave it to you Pchan to react in such a harmonious way.

[P_chan]

Well, I can't disagree with muku. After all, he is my father:rolleyes:

:edit: I too went to McDonald's yesterday in uniform during my lunch break. Didn't get any big mac's thrown at me. But I did order a double mac (because I was starving) so they probably thoguht I was a fat ass.

[rednek72]

I have to agree with NotSoAverageWife, I went into Mc D's yesterday and the same thing happened. Damn guy looked at me disgusted and threw my food at me, I was thinkin he was rude as hell and then I realized that my fly was open and my manhood was hanginout and that he was just jealous as hell.

:thumbup1: I back bioches

[P_chan]

I have to agree with NotSoAverageWife, I went into Mc D's yesterday and the same thing happened. Damn guy looked at me disgusted and threw my food at me, I was thinkin he was rude as hell and then I realized that my fly was open and my manhood was hanginout and that he was just jealous as hell.

:thumbup1: I back bioches

Then you woke up and realized you just had an homo erotic dream?

[GODH8SU]

I have to agree with NotSoAverageWife, I went into Mc D's yesterday and the same thing happened. Damn guy looked at me disgusted and threw my food at me, I was thinkin he was rude as hell and then I realized that my fly was open and my manhood was hanginout and that he was just jealous as hell.

:thumbup1: I back bioches

Somehow, I really doubt it. Then again, you do have to be hung to screw animals.

[Gadget]

I don't think he was hinting at that at all. Maybe you just automatically assumed that's what he meant?

I see where bones is coming from though. Some people really need to control their kids once out in public.

Well, I did put "If" in front of my statement, but the reality is that "some people" as you put it, include Japanese/Okinawan parents too. Maybe it's because I spend so little time on base and end up seeing far more misbehaving children off base.

Mind you, I'm talking specifically about children misbehaving with their parents right there with them, not about kids doing things they wouldn't otherwise do in front of their parents (like shoplifting at Mihama etc)

For example, I take my daughter to the Chiban Clinic instead of the med clinic on base. They have an aquarium in it, and it never fails when I go there (yesterday included after I posted), despite there being a sign (in Japanese) that says "dont touch the glass", children are always walking up to the aquarium and tapping on the glass.

Now, kids are kids and they're going to do what they want unless their parents tell them otherwise, so my problem isn't with the kids, it's really with the parents who watch them touch the glass and then laugh or don't say anything.

Just like the dumbass ones who let their 2 year old kid wander all over a resturant without their shoes on because they'd rather do that than scold or spank the little bugger and tell him/her to sit still.

[P_chan]

Well, I did put "If" in front of my statement, but the reality is that "some people" as you put it, include Japanese/Okinawan parents too.

I never said that ANYONE was excluded.

[Jazz]

Yeah, way too many Okinawan/Japanese Moms are lazy as hell and seem to value their own time and freedom too much to discipline their kids. It drives me crazy when I see the kids running around the restaurant and the Mom sitting there BS'n with her friend as if her kids aren't even there! Also when the young like 2-3 year olds are running around the streets with no parent in sight. Parent's are either at Pachinko or just think the magic spirit of Okinawa will protect their kids and they don't need to. I guess it's the same thought they have about the kids bouncing all over inside the car while driving!

[Gadget]

P-chan, No but you said you understood where Bones was coming from and he was specifically talking about American kids so it appeared you were too.

Maybe not what you meant, but the written word is easier misunderstood than the spoken sometimes

[Muku]

Just like the dumbass ones who let their 2 year old kid wander all over a resturant without their shoes on because they'd rather do that than scold or spank the little bugger and tell him/her to sit still.
Why is there is there an assumption that the person that does this is a dumbass?:rolleyes:

There are exceptions to every rule of course and each situation is different.

However I will go so far as to say that it appears to me at least that American parents generally speaking want their kids to be little angels and be seen and not heard. Whereas Japanese parents allow their kids to be just that kids. Both have their good points and both have their bad points as well.

I think there are plenty of dumbass parents on both sides of the fence and I agree that there are times I would like to see the parents be proactive in disciplining their children as well.

In my observations since living here at least there doesn't seem to be a rush for kids to grow up and be adults. In America however there is a greater push for kids to mature faster and be adults before they are actually ready for it. And I think that is where many misunderstandings occur, because to me anyway, many American's equal children of a certain age here developmentally anyway, to one's in the US, and they forget all too often that just because a person is a certain age doesnt mean they are the same. A typical 14 year old here is not the same as a typical 14 year old back in the US.

[BleuEneG]

Why is there is there an assumption that the person that does this is a dumbass?:rolleyes:

There are exceptions to every rule of course and each situation is different.

However I will go so far as to say that it appears to me at least that American parents generally speaking want their kids to be little angels and be seen and not heard. Whereas Japanese parents allow their kids to be just that kids. Both have their good points and both have their bad points as well.

I think there are plenty of dumbass parents on both sides of the fence and I agree that there are times I would like to see the parents be proactive in disciplining their children as well.

In my observations since living here at least there doesn't seem to be a rush for kids to grow up and be adults. In America however there is a greater push for kids to mature faster and be adults before they are actually ready for it. And I think that is where many misunderstandings occur, because to me anyway, many American's equal children of a certain age here developmentally anyway, to one's in the US, and they forget all too often that just because a person is a certain age doesnt mean they are the same. A typical 14 year old here is not the same as a typical 14 year old back in the US.

Yes yes Muku..I have observed this too and here is another very important factor to consider. Okinawan children seem happy!

I guess i have just been lucky so far becasue I have not seen these raving brats that some of you are speaking of that run around restaruants and tap on glass to kill fish. But what I have seen in my few months here is that there is a joy to these children that is more often than not missing from thier American counterparts.

I see far more Japanese children laugh and play freely.they seem more creative in their games and play as well. I have interacted with several children out in town while their parents watch and these kids seem to be more polite and friendly for the most part. And I have yet to see one whining and demanding as is so common with American children. I wonder why this is?

So there is something that is going right here. I am far from the perfect parent or judge of good parenting skills but maybe like you say..kids are allowed to be kids.

[thistle]

I would be interested to jump into this discussion, someone needs to move it to a new thread.
The original thread title is misleading, it is discussing a whole lot of stuff which is nothing to do with how american's are treated off-base.

[Sex Wax]

How are you being treated or notice anything different or anything better now that you can roam around off-base freely?

Well, I went down to Sunabe Gyros today to get my fix, and there were these two chicks out on the seawall trying to stay out of the rain, and they said "Hey arent you the guy that used to get drunk and streak around?"

And I said "Yeah, that was me."

One of the girls said "You are old now."

So I said, "You will be old one day also, but not as cool as me."

So I guess the thing that got different for me is: I apparently got "old" in the last few months. So.

:thumbup1:

[NotSoAverageWife]

Ya know...I'm not asking anyone to "tip toe" around me. But I also do not expect to have neg. attitudes thrown to me for no reason either. I have done nothing, to anyone.

[Muku]

But I also do not expect to have neg. attitudes thrown to me for no reason either. I have done nothing, to anyone.
Note to self here;
Remember never to have a bad day around NotSo Average Wife and make sure that if I ever work at McDonalds that if and when she comes in to ensure that some other person serves her so I do not rain on her parade.

[P_chan]

I don't think anyone had a negative attitude. I just thought to myself that there has to be more to the story. After all, if you go to any resturant over here I doubt they'll be giving you dirty looks and throwing your food at you. I frequent McDonalds a lot (too much), and I've never had anything but awesome customer service.

Now in the states.....that's a different story.

[silviasichigo]

I get treated like a king when I walk amongst my subjects, The hoodies bow down and service me the way they should and I.... Wait sorry I dozed off there a minute must have daydreamedtyped, Treated normally :)

[NotSoAverageWife]

I don't think anyone had a negative attitude. I just thought to myself that there has to be more to the story. After all, if you go to any resturant over here I doubt they'll be giving you dirty looks and throwing your food at you. I frequent McDonalds a lot (too much), and I've never had anything but awesome customer service.

Now in the states.....that's a different story.

I agree, I have never had a problem there, thats the same one we always go to. Maybe the guy was just having a bad day?...I don't know....but there is nothing else to the story. Sorry....It was just me and my daughter, right after they lifted the lockdown. Everything else has been great...

[P_chan]

I agree, I have never had a problem there, thats the same one we always go to. Maybe the guy was just having a bad day?...I don't know....but there is nothing else to the story. Sorry....It was just me and my daughter, right after they lifted the lockdown. Everything else has been great...

Well then, who is throwing negative attitudes at you?

[Muku]

I don't think anyone had a negative attitude. I just thought to myself that there has to be more to the story. After all, if you go to any resturant over here I doubt they'll be giving you dirty looks and throwing your food at you. I frequent McDonalds a lot (too much), and I've never had anything but awesome customer service.

Now in the states.....that's a different story.
I agree with you P Chan but then again one never knows.....:rolleyes:

I am under the impression from some people here that just because not every Japanese person smiles and treats them like a Queen on a pedestal, or King for that matter then something automatically is obviously wrong on the Japanese side and the American's are getting crapped on and discriminated against. Hell they bitch about the local help in AAFES too.

Shit I think I would be throwing food at everyone if I had to work at McD's for the money that they pay.....and it wouldnt matter if it were a Japanese or AMerican for that matter. That McDonalds too probably counldnt survive without the base either I would be willing to bet and anytime I have been there the staff worked hard at trying to speak English and went out of their way to be extremely polite.

Like I wrote before......can't have a bad day around some people here if you are Japanese.

[Muku]

Well then, who is throwing negative attitudes at you?

This guy P
I went to the Micky D's outside the housing gate by Foster...the man looked to be a manager or something...but anyways he didn't seem too happy to have my daughter and I in there. He kinda tossed our food on the tray and just had a look on his face that pretty much said it all. Everywhere else, has been just fine though.

The one that "kinda" tossed the food on the tray..................
read between the lines I hate Americans and the same guy with the look that said it all.

[NotSoAverageWife]

It happened in a few topics. They didn't say it to me in a quote or whatever, but was morelike the flow of the convo going on, you can see where it was going. Atleast to me. Maybe it was just them being their normal goofy self...and I didn't pick up on it because I don't know everyone...IDK So if that is the case, then I apologize.
But someone else noticed it too....
I just didn't come here to argue with people...I just thought this would be something neat and new...

[NotSoAverageWife]

OMG
What a joke

[P_chan]

It happened in a few topics. They didn't say it to me in a quote or whatever, but was morelike the flow of the convo going on, you can see where it was going. Atleast to me. Maybe it was just them being their normal goofy self...and I didn't pick up on it because I don't know everyone...IDK So if that is the case, then I apologize.
But someone else noticed it too....
I just didn't come here to argue with people...I just thought this would be something neat and new...

So you're saying that you just read between the lines? Just because someone questions something you say doesn't mean they're acting "negative" towards you.

I honestly think (and still think) that your story is only partly true. Maybe you did something or were acting in a rude manor without noticing it. Which is why I think there is more to the story. But like muku said, we will never know.

:edit: Now maybe he "tossed" your food on the tray because he was busy and running around filling other orders. Ever think that? And maybe the whole "dirty look" thing was just part of your imagination?

[NotSoAverageWife]

Ok, I'm done. I don't know why this mess got blown up like it did. But I'm going to stop it here. It's not worth my time or your time.

[P_chan]

Ok, I'm done. I don't know why this mess got blown up like it did. But I'm going to stop it here. It's not worth my time or your time.

There is only one person blowing up in here, and it's you.

Sure you didn't "blow up" on the guy at McDonalds?:rolleyes:

Maybe next time I won't ask questions and just agree blindly with whatever you (or anyone else) says.:thumbdown:

[BleuEneG]

This thread reminds me of a question someone asked me once..."Would you rather be right, or happy?"

[P_chan]

This thread also reminds me of a saying I once heard....."It's all in your head."

[BleuEneG]

:This thread also reminds me of a saying I once heard....."It's all in your head."

ha ha..touche

[Bones]

As posted by Muku:

I am under the impression from some people here that just because not every Japanese person smiles and treats them like a Queen on a pedestal, or King for that matter then something automatically is obviously wrong on the Japanese side and the American's are getting crapped on and discriminated against. Hell they bitch about the local help in AAFES too.

Thanks, Muku. I was about to launch a diatribe of my own last night, about exactly the same thing. Thanks for saving me the trouble. My rant would have been much longer, but what you wrote pretty much sums up my rant in a few short lines.

Good post!!!:old:

Bones

[Muku]

As posted by Muku:



Thanks, Muku. I was about to launch a diatribe of my own last night, about exactly the same thing. Thanks for saving me the trouble. My rant would have been much longer, but what you wrote pretty much sums up my rant in a few short lines.

Good post!!!:old:

Bones

Thanks Bones....great minds think alike!:eek: :thumbup1:

[okisteve]

Why is there is there an assumption that the person that does this is a dumbass?:rolleyes:

In my observations since living here at least there doesn't seem to be a rush for kids to grow up and be adults. In America however there is a greater push for kids to mature faster and be adults before they are actually ready for it. And I think that is where many misunderstandings occur, because to me anyway, many American's equal children of a certain age here developmentally anyway, to one's in the US, and they forget all too often that just because a person is a certain age doesnt mean they are the same. A typical 14 year old here is not the same as a typical 14 year old back in the US.

Muku, that is a great understatement! Especially considering the people here with a military influence in their lives, which I can't help but feel has a strong effect on kids. There is no comparison with children growing up in a very laid-back culture.

[okisteve]

This thread also reminds me of a saying I once heard....."It's all in your head."

So whose head is it actually in? Come on, all she said was that she got a sour look from a guy in a restaurant. I didn't read that she felt like she was being singled out for anything or that she expected more from a McDonald's employee.

It's far more likely that he was really just having a bad day than reacting to AvgHW. Japanese just don't react negatively quickly and personally very much because it quickly becomes embarrassing for them. So more likely he was hung over or had just been bawled out by the buchou.

And then everyone got very defensive, like it had to be at least a little bit HER fault. What is the logic there? Kenka uten noka?

[P_chan]

So whose head is it actually in? Come on, all she said was that she got a sour look from a guy in a restaurant. I didn't read that she felt like she was being singled out for anything or that she expected more from a McDonald's employee.

It's far more likely that he was really just having a bad day than reacting to AvgHW. Japanese just don't react negatively quickly and personally very much because it quickly becomes embarrassing for them. So more likely he was hung over or had just been bawled out by the buchou.

And then everyone got very defensive, like it had to be at least a little bit HER fault. What is the logic there? Kenka uten noka?

Never said it HAD to be her fault. Just that there was probably more to the story. Then I explored other possibilities. Such as maybe she did something unintentionally or the guy was just having a bad day. Or maybe it was just really packed and he was trying to orders up as fast as he could? Or, maybe it was really just all in her head, you never know. I hit on several of those possibilities (like you just mentioned), did you miss them?

[proudtobnotpc]

If this is out of place than I apologize but that having been said Americans need to check the arrogance at the door. This is not America. Now go ahead and attack but I will not lose this one.

[Bones]

As posted by OkiSteve:

And then everyone got very defensive, like it had to be at least a little bit HER fault. What is the logic there? Kenka uten noka?

Be glad to answer that for you Steve.

Unlike a lot of the folks posting these days, I've been stationed all over the world. And I've had some experiences, when it comes to dealing with different nationalities, different services, different governments, etc...

I think that the closest person to "Hit The Nail Right On The Head", as it relates this thread, is Muku.

People being deployed these days, do not take the time to study the environment that they are moving in to. They automatically "assume" that they are moving to another state, and everything will work out fine.

For the most part, things will work out well. But there are lazy idiots out there who think like: "I'm moving, I'm here for you, serve me!!!"

That won't happen.

If you want the local population to help you, you get off of your "High Horse", participate in community events, and "EARN" the respect of the your neighbors. Because as we have seen recently, for every nice thing that you do, some idiot is going to ruin it for everyone else out there. Really, Fast!

The respect of your neighbors is earned, not given.

Bones

[NotSoAverageWife]

I agree. But I think my post was misunderstood. I didn't bash the guy over and over...and make it sound like how dare him do that. As I said before, thats the same McD. we always go too, and everyones always friendly, hell everywhere for that matter. So I was alittle taken back that day. After P said something about maybe he had a bad day...I did say yeah...maybe he did have a bad day. So I did acknowledge that very well could have been why. I also said this was right after the lockdown was lifted...and we only went to McD cause my daughter had been wanting to go. So it could have been I thought his action was toward me cause I was worried that people did hate us after all that had gone on. If I could I would tell more people, that I love it here, I love the chance that I have to see somewhere like this. I think it's an amazing place. I have told people on myspace about coming here and how wonderful the people are and the festivals and so on. I have been trying to learn some of the language, cause I want them to see us make an effort.
But I have tried to learn about Okinawa. So I hope your statement wasn't meant about just me when you said "I'm moving, I'm here for you, serve me!!!" Because I do not feel like that at all and would never think such. So I apologize if my post came off wrong. I would never mean for it to sound so ugly.

[Tigaberra]

Could you define a "rude" look please.

Oh and welcome to the board, interesting 1st post.

Well mostly the old timers were giving me the stink eye when I was at the Jusco's (not the one in American village) I was in the home store area and there were a few Japanese people that were following me and my friend around making sure we didn't steal anything. Every time we turned a corner the lady followed us "straightening" things. I know the tactics of a store clerk, I used to work at Wet Seal and I had to follow suspects around to catch them stealing.

[okisteve]

Resurrection, and it's not even Easter. Well, where's the real Muku these days, anyway?????

[P_chan]

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y177/Tubbyofspork/threadnecromancer.jpg

[okisteve]

That was a very short post, even for you P_chan

[OCanadaOurHomeAndNativeLand]

Resurrection, and it's not even Easter. Well, where's the real Muku these days, anyway?????
His son supposedly has an account on here...can't for the life of me remember the user name. Could be still around...

[dk]

Both accounts are temporarily banned.

[OCanadaOurHomeAndNativeLand]

I stand corrected.

[dk]

there were a few Japanese people that were following me and my friend around making sure we didn't steal anything.
Maybe it's not because you're American but because you look suspiciously like a thief. Or your friend does.

[Tigaberra]

Maybe it's not because you're American but because you look suspiciously like a thief. Or your friend does.

I was pregnant... wearing clothes from Old Navy....

[Sex Wax]

http://www.clubfuji.com/Ash/thread%20necro.jpg

[Tigaberra]

Hey i'm just replying to what someone posted to me months ago, I just didn't get the opportunity to explain what I meant by "rude looks"

[okisteve]

So you posted here under a different name???

[Tigaberra]

So you posted here under a different name???

Uh no.... click on my picture and find the posts I have made, I posted it back in April, I think maybe my display picture wasn't up at the time (obviously cause my son wasn't born)

[DJ Tak]

Uh no.... click on my picture and find the posts I have made, I posted it back in April, I think maybe my display picture wasn't up at the time (obviously cause my son wasn't born)


And damn near every post you have made is anti-Japanese.

[Tigaberra]

And damn near every post you have made is anti-Japanese.

it only got turned that way because of P-Chan, he brought it up in another thread.

[okisteve]

Uh no.... click on my picture and find the posts I have made, I posted it back in April, I think maybe my display picture wasn't up at the time (obviously cause my son wasn't born)

Uh, OBVIOUSLY!

JC, I have only had one drink and already you are ugly.

[dk]

I was pregnant... wearing clothes from Old Navy....
I hear that's what all the hooligans are wearing these days.

How about your friend?

Also, pregnant women aren't to be trusted. :grin1:

[Bones]

Well, from what I've read of "Tigaberra's" threads is to be believed, perhaps we should have gone to "America Fest".:scratchchin::old:

All joking aside, I tend to agree with the majority of the posters out there. She is one confused little lady.

Bones

[Trail]

Also, pregnant women aren't to be trusted. :grin1:

I resent that statement.... :90:

[Trail]

:eek:
BTW dk, are those your anal beads in this bananas right hand? :14a:

[Bones]

Why would anyone actually own up that?:-|

[P_chan]

it only got turned that way because of P-Chan, he brought it up in another thread.

But I'm not japanese? So you're basing your bias views about japanese people on an american?

[Odie]

Just to throw in my 2 cents. Just because it seems like a store owner or clerk is following a person around that doesn't necessarily mean they think you are out to steal something. They could also be keeping an eye out to see if there is something they could help you with or maybe influence you to buy. If they don't see you admiring the item then they can't tell you how it's "10% off" or something of the like.

My husband and I went to a furniture store and a clerk shadowed us throughout the entire store, now unless he thought we were going to walk out of the store with a dinning table under my skirt he must have had other intentions than to try to bust us for stealing. Just a possibility to consider.

[okisteve]

Just to throw in my 2 cents. Just because it seems like a store owner or clerk is following a person around that doesn't necessarily mean they think you are out to steal something. They could also be keeping an eye out to see if there is something they could help you with or maybe influence you to buy. If they don't see you admiring the item then they can't tell you how it's "10% off" or something of the like.

My husband and I went to a furniture store and a clerk shadowed us throughout the entire store, now unless he thought we were going to walk out of the store with a dinning table under my skirt he must have had other intentions than to try to bust us for stealing. Just a possibility to consider.


Odie, you also have to consider that many a "guest" here COULD hide a dining table under her skirt. :smile4:

[jrademacher]

same says the results and me

[okisteve]

same says the results and me

Say whaaat?

[vvloc]

Say whaaat?

You echo my thoughts entirely.

[jrademacher]

i dont know how that got there or what that even means someone must be using my identity