My Essentials of Finnishness

Snowy landscape

Finnishness can be described in as many ways as there are Finns. When I think about Finnishness, what immediately comes to my mind is our pure nature, the sense of safety we enjoy, and the equality that exists in our society.

Beautiful nature

For me, Finnishness means being able to enjoy pure nature. For me, nature is a place to calm down alone, and a place to be together with loved ones. Finnish nature makes so many things possible. I can pick berries and mushrooms, or I can go swimming in the lake. I can ski or go hiking. It is great that there is an Everyman’s right in Finland, which makes it possible for everyone to enjoy nature. Nature gives a lot to all Finns, and that is why it is important to take care of it as well.

Finnish countrysideDog in winter

The sense of safety

We Finns are used to a sense of safety. Finnishness is that I don’t have to be afraid of war, and as a woman, I don’t have to be constantly afraid when I’m walking alone at night. I can trust that I will receive treatment and help if I or someone close to me becomes sick. I can trust the Police. As a student, the sense of safety is created by the fact that I can trust that I will receive financial support from society so that I can support myself during my studies.

Beautiful sky

Equality

Perhaps one of the best things about Finland is that we all have the same opportunities for a good life regardless of the background and socioeconomic status. Finnishness is that I can study for free as high a degree as I wish. Anyone, regardless of wealth, gets health care when they need it. For me, Finnishness is modesty, fairness and equal treatment of others.

 

These three things are only a small part of Finnishness, but  important to me and many other Finns. Although it is cliché to say, it is indeed a lottery win to be born in Finland

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