I come from a developing country in Southeast Asia – Vietnam. We are used to the street’s bustle regardless of day or night. So, when I first arrived in Finland, the country’s tranquility took a while to get used to. Silence is considered the key to Finnish character. Finns rarely start a conversation with strangers. Even small talk is rare. They carefully assess the words in communication. They communicate in a cautious and educated manner. True Finns always respect “sacred silence” and view it as healthy, enhancing the ability to think clearly.
However, the Finns are always very enthusiastic and friendly when someone asks for help. When I first came to Finland, I was unfamiliar with transportation and couldn’t find a way to train to Tampere. I asked a few random people standing at that pier. Some people didn’t know but still politely answered and answered me, and others knew they helped me until I got on the right train.
So to me, it is true that the Finns are tranquil, but at the same time, they are friendly and approachable people. They do not judge, do not scorn, do not disparage others. They are educated and polite in their communication.
They are not rude and do not interrupt, but they are always ready to listen to all opinions of the speaker.
I think that is a virtue worth learning from the Finns. Live modestly and simply, speak intelligently and subtly, and always be ready to help those in need.
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