Russia

While Russia deals with the aftermath of its second terrorist attack in two days, I thought I might focus on some positive things about the country. My wife is from Russia, and I’ve spent a little time there. The thing I really love about the above video is it illustrates two characteristics that many Russians embody; ingenuity and a complete disregard for superfluous boundaries.

Complacency is a universal problem among humans, but I’ve noticed that most of the Russians I’ve met would fix a broken washing machine without considering calling a repairman. While in Russia, I saw an internet cafe’s grand opening and not so grand closing in a three week period. The reason? Russians won’t spend cash on something they can do at home for less money. Phrases often heard around my house include: “don’t waste that”, “save it”, “why waste your money”, “I’ll fix it” and my favorite, “let’s save money and drink in tonight.” As the picture below illustrates, Russians will solve a problem with what’s in front of them, not a trip to Target.