Chapter 49 Refusing and Accepting Gifts

You: My mother always taught me that when somebody offers you a gift you should first refuse it before you accept it.

David: I think in the American culture, you usually directly say whether you want or don't want something.

You: In China during Spring Festival, it's customary for relative to give younger children money. After celebrating at home, my parents used to take me to visit some of our relatives. When they offered me money, I always refused it until they shoved it into my pocket. That was the only way I could accept it. But now we can accept gifts directly and just say "thank you".

David: So the traditions and customs are changing?

You: Yes, I think these Chinese people are accepting the western culture.

David: How about you? Do you think it is important to learn some western customs?

You: Yes. We should learn western customs and cultures so we can establish friendships with people from different countries.

David: You're right. I think it's a good thing. It's meaningless and silly to try to understand people whose culture you do not understand.