Customs from Around the World That Could Benefit Your Home Country

In a globalized world, it's fascinating to observe the unique customs and practices observed in different countries. While some may seem strange or unusual, they can offer valuable lessons for improvement in other parts of the world. In this article, we'll explore some customs from around the globe that could be beneficial to our own home countries.

Construction Scaffolding

Ecuadorians often wish people 'happy birthday' and may God bless this next year of your life. While this is an interesting custom, one that really caught my eye was the construction scaffolding in Rome. Unlike in New York City, where scaffolding usually covers the entire building, in Rome, it closely resembles the building underneath. The result is a striking and aesthetically pleasing look. If implemented in urban areas with heavy construction, this could significantly improve the appearance of the city and make it more visually appealing.

Traffic Light Countdowns

In the Philippines, there is a system where countdown numbers are displayed next to traffic lights. This helps everyone know exactly when the lights will change from red to green, ensuring smoother traffic flow. This system could easily be adopted in the United States to reduce traffic congestion and improve road safety. The implementation of such a system would not only benefit drivers but also enhance the overall efficiency of the traffic infrastructure.

Social Valued Cooking Skills

Cooking is a socially valued skill in many countries, including Spain, Italy, and the United Kingdom. This cultural emphasis on cooking, especially among men, has a positive impact on society. It fosters a sense of community and shared responsibility, encouraging men and women to contribute to the family and social gatherings. Learning to cook is no longer just a 'woman's thing' but a valued skill that can bond families and friends.

Social Responsibility and Personal Cleanliness

In Japan, there is a strong emphasis on personal and societal responsibility. When visitors come across trash, it is their duty to carry it until they find a trash can or until they get home. This custom ensures that the streets remain clean and tidy, which is a remarkable contrast to the frequent littering in the United States. Implementing a similar system could significantly improve the cleanliness of cities and promote a sense of duty towards the environment.

Same-Sex Marriage Recognition

The issue of same-sex marriage is a significant concern, especially in places like Hong Kong, where the Hong Kong High Court recently refused to recognize same-sex marriages. The frustration and appeal to the government to allow such marriages are evident. Same-sex couples in many countries around the world face legal and social discrimination. Recognizing and legalizing same-sex marriages would promote equality and protect these individuals from discrimination. Although it seems unlikely under the current administration, long-term change is possible with advocacy and public support.

Looking to other countries for inspiration and practical implementations is a valuable lesson we can all learn. By adopting some of these customs and practices, our home countries can become more vibrant, efficient, and inclusive places to live. Whether it's improving construction aesthetics, enhancing traffic flow, promoting cooking skills, or ensuring societal responsibility, there's always room for improvement. The world is a treasure trove of unique customs, and our task is to learn from them and implement those that could benefit us.

Let's strive to make our home countries better by embracing positive customs from around the globe.