
sorry sign by qimono. CC0
Read Original Version (CLB5+) You are reading the Simple Version (CLB3-4) “Keep in mind how important it is to be kind. Don’t be too embarrassed by your mistakes. Forgive others’ mistakes easily. Be willing to set aside your own ideas about what is `right’ and approach new situations with curiosity and an open mind.” The first place I went to in Manitoba was a summer fair. This fair had fun rides and games. My nephew and I stood in line for a ride. As we did this, a group of young girls also stood in line behind us. While we were waiting, I noticed that one of my nephew’s shoelaces was not tied. I kneeled down to tie it, and the line moved forward. Suddenly, one of the young girls behind us stepped over my leg and moved ahead of us. She signaled to the rest of her group to come with her. As I began to say something, one girl in their group said sorry to me. She then said to her friend, “Hey, you’re not in our country anymore. You can’t cut in line here.” As the girl who cut in line walked back, I saw that she was confused and upset. She didn’t understand what had happened. To her, it was not a big deal. In her country, cutting in line was normal. For many people who are new to a country, understanding social rules can be hard. These rules are not official, but they guide how people behave in groups and societies. We are not rude or uncivilized. It’s not about one culture or country being better or worse. It’s just that different people do things in different ways. The reasons for these rules can be many things, like the environment or history. Many rules can be hard to understand, especially if you have not lived in that place for a long time. But, trying to understand these rules can help you fit in and adjust quickly. Apart from not cutting in line, here are some other social rules in Canada that I’ve noticed: In the place where I come from, people who sell things on the street, busy roads, loud music, and car horns make up city life. If you want to talk to someone in public, you need to speak loudly. This is what life is like in one of the most crowded cities in the world. Here, it’s normal for people to talk loudly or even shout on their phones. In Manitoba, you don’t need to shout because there is a lot of open space. It’s not common for people to shout or yell. If you talk loudly with your friends or on your phone, people might not like it. In general, being loud, causing trouble, and being overly excited is not okay. So, it’s a good idea to speak softly, especially when you’re in public. This sense of order also applies to the environment. You’ll see that people usually don’t throw trash on the ground. Neighborhoods keep their walkways, parks, and lawns clean. You can’t just cross the street anywhere or stop the bus wherever you want. There are specific places for walking, waiting, biking, and driving. Some norms people will not tell you about: Canadians like to make jokes and often make fun of themselves. This is common in small chats. They do this to make others feel comfortable around them. If you want to join in, remember that making jokes can be hard. If you are not used to the type of jokes that others find okay, don’t do it. Canadians think being polite, respectful, and kind are more important than being funny. As a rule, don’t make fun of how someone looks, how much money they have, or their race, gender, or background. A good rule to remember is: “If you don’t have something nice to say, don’t say anything at all.” In Canada, these things are usually true: Is this too much to remember? Don’t worry, everyone knows that getting used to a new country takes time. Canadians are naturally understanding and helpful. They will know that you’re new and still finding your way. Keep putting yourself in situations where you can talk to people, and keep asking questions! If you make a mistake, say sorry. Don’t be too hard on yourself and keep learning. Please login to tell us what you think.Skip to:
Gabi Cipollone (Olympian)
Quoted from Modern etiquette: Different cultures have different greetings by Mary M. Mitchell, Lifestyle.Noise and decorum
Sense of humour
Community life is important
Article updated August 2, 2024.We'd love to hear from you!