Cultural Differences

For the past several years I have been going to get my nails done at nail salon that is run by Vietnamese women.  I enjoy going and have developed a friendly relationship with one of the manicurists.  I find it easy to speak with her and I take an interest in learning about her and her culture. I find her to be kind, with a good work ethic and family oriented. In turn, I believe I treat her with respect and kindness.  I have also developed a friendly relationship with a professional massage therapist who is Chinese. Again, I feel safe with her and can be myself without judgement. Both of these women see me for me and are not put off by my Aspergers.

I have experienced a cultural difference between American women and the Asian women I have interacted with. I don’t want to generalize, but I have been able to develop a nice relationship with these Asian women without judgement which has helped me quite a bit. It has been a good experience to find companionship with people that are accepting and kind and allow me to be myself. 

I am currently dating a Vietnamese woman who is kind and accepting of me. She genuinely enjoys being with me, and I enjoy her company too.

– Greg

Gratitude and Mental Health: How to Feel Thankful Despite Challenges

By Darlene Lancer, J.D., M.F.T.

My therapist and I talk about this topic often.  – Greg

Being Thankful When You Don’t Feel That Way

Many Americans struggling with health, financial, or emotional problems find it challenging to feel grateful around Thanksgiving. Some people always have a habit of looking at the negative. One reason for this is that our brains our predisposed to solve problems, and we take what makes us comfortable for granted.

Religion

All world religions stress the importance of gratitude. In Judaism, prayers of gratefulness are an essential component of worship, which orthodox Jews recite one hundred times a day. Gratitude was referred to by Martin Luther as a “basic Christian attitude.” The Quran states that the grateful will given more. Moslem believers are encouraged to give thanks five times a day. Sufi, Hindu, and Buddhist traditions also emphasize giving thanks. read more