Reverse Culture Shock

Carey and I are back in the States for the holidays and it's been a weird adjustment. I must say that, as great as it's been to be with our families and friends here, at times I find myself really missing our life in Guatemala. In the short time we've been back, I've made a few observations about myself and being an American:
1. We are way too busy.
You know something's wrong when half the people in church leave before the last song is over so they can beat the traffic out of the parking lot. I nearly got knocked over by some old lady!
2. Being able to flush your toilet paper is soooo underrated!
3. Being expected to take a shower everyday is soooo overrated!
4. Many of us have a ridiculous sense of entitlement.
I would say the biggest difference between an American and a Guatemalan is that the American expects he is entitled to certain things (money, job, health care, safety, happiness, etc.) and the Guatemalan would count each of these things as blessings, not rights.
5. Can you say, "sticker shock!?"
Carey went to get a haircut recently and I found myself literally angry at the stylist when she told us what it would cost. I guess what someone once said is true, "It's expensive to be alive" (especially in the U.S.).
6. Football is a far superior sport to futbol. (can I get an "Amen!?")
7. Dear fellow Americans: is it really that hard to look someone else in the eye and say hello every once in a while?
8. PTCS: Post Traumatic Chickenbus Syndrome - it takes a while to remember that not all drivers are not out to kill you.
9. Where is everyone?
I think the thing I miss most about Guatemala is the people - there are literally people everywhere...all the time. They're outside my casita, at the market, in the streets, stuffed in vehicles, and on the mountainside working...and I miss seeing them.
10. I feel funny.
Since being back I've sort of felt like a small town boy making his first visit to the big city. I went into a mall recently and felt like I was on crack from the overstimulation.
11. Distance makes the heart grow fonder.
You just can't beat being with family and friends around the holidays : )

Carey and I hope you're all doing well and also able to spend some good, quality time with those you love most this season.
Peace,
Jay & Carey