I was raised with both American and Brazilian etiquette, and while I appreciate the values both cultures have taught me, there are certain social expectations that I find unnecessarily complicated. If I tell someone "no," it is not the end of the world. If I address a problem or concern with you, or if you do the same with me, it does not mean there is personal conflict between us. Open communication should not automatically be interpreted as hostility. Likewise, if I do not want to be touched, it does not mean I dislike you. I simply prefer to have personal boundaries, especially with people I do not know well. Respecting those boundaries should not be seen as a rejection of someone else's character or intentions. I am 25 years old. I know I joke around and can be a giant kid at times, but I also know when to be serious. The older I get, the more I realize that many misunderstandings come from people assuming the worst about each other's intentions. There are moments when I want to disappear into a forest and take a break from society altogether. Still, I believe that people are entitled to their own perspectives and responses. The challenge is learning how to respect those differences without compromising your own values, boundaries, or sense of self. (i felt a little professional here but its just a little thought piece I wanted to share. I wonder how much cultural differences AND particular, social behaviors overlap and if they a play role in how we respond, react and interact with the world around us)