I’m originally from Brazil, so it’s weird to think about My Experiences of Finnishness. However, after a few minutes, I realized that I could see so much in myself that came from the Finnish culture. Finns are reserved, straightforward, and kind. Maybe the kindness is the favorite of all because here I was warmly welcomed by a family who little knew about me.
One example of this kindness is the struggle that foreigners find when they try to learn the Finnish language. Finns are, in general, shy about their English skills, but they switch the conversation to English straight away so as not to make foreigners struggle with Finnish. This applies from grocery stores to a doctor’s appointment. I say struggle because of course you need to practice the language if you want to learn, but Finns end up not supporting the learning by being so kind all the time.
From Finland, I learned to say no, and take time and space for myself. Appreciate fully all the seasons of the year: summer to use all your energy, autumn to disconnect, winter to recharge, and spring to new beginnings.
Finland is not perfect, but I learned to pay attention to the little things, especially in nature and that’s my favorite thing about the country and the people: close contact to nature.
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