Getting Used To Things…Or Not
Even though I know it to be true – I still shock myself when counting the months that I have been living here in Italy. The first six months after officially moving have nearly flown by, now just a memory for me. Now it’s August, the mandatory month of vacation for my husband (and many others in certain industries). Most everyone in Italy takes time off in mid-August to go on vacation. I suppose it’s just too hot and humid to do anything else.
Lately I’ve been in a reflective mood and realized there are still so many things that I need to get used – or perhaps I will never get to that point? Besides politics, corruption and injustices that I never can understand properly or accept…there are lots of little cultural things. I’m starting to think I sound like a total dork, but one of those things are topless girls. Seriously, I am so not used to see women topless. Now, at the beach I suppose I’m getting used to it since I realize women just don’t want horrible tan lines. However, in regular advertisements, TV shows and magazines…not the X-rated kinds, but normal ones…it’s totally okay for women to be topless and nearly all naked.
I have nothing against the female nude and must agree that the female body is just prettier to look at (sorry guys). However, I still freeze a bit in terror when I come across said advertisements or magazine spreads. It’s like, oops – oh wait – no, it’s just a regular magazine…hmm. I just have to get used to the culture, right?
I’m not sure it’s something I will ever get used to. Or the fact that many folks can look at these magazines with their parents and gossip about it. Gosh, I must come from the most conservative family ever it seems! What happened to the boundaries!?!?
Posted on August 13, 2009 at 11:40 pm | italy, life thoughts
2 Responses to “Getting Used To Things…Or Not”
Leave a Reply
That’s funny. I’m so sure your husband gets a mandatory vacation. sigh I hope it is a wonderful month for you.
Hi! I found your blog via Blog it Forward via Tiny Ass Apartment…and oddly enough I believe my friend Nadine had contacted you about meeting but you were busy with your wedding…I’m american and been living in Tuscany for over 6 years, first in Florence and now in Prato. Anyway, I TOTALLY understand what you’re talking about. I’ve been here for SIX YEARS and I’m still not used to the toplessness. And I guess it’s not just the nudity but the outright sexism. Anyway if you wanna comiserate in real life, you’ve got my email. We are trying to get a bunch of us non-italians outside of florence together so if you’re ever interested, let us know!