The hottest Cultural observations Substack posts right now

India is much dustier than the US, which makes photos look better in cleaner air. It's something people often mention, but it's really felt after living in a less dusty environment.
Payment options in India, like UPI, are super flexible for various transactions, though Apple Pay can be more convenient because it doesn't require entering amounts or PINs.
There's a lot of SMS spam in India, ranging from transaction confirmations to promotions. It's overwhelming and sometimes feels like you'll get a text for any little thing you do.

Japanese cities, like Sapporo, may not be visually pleasing, but they offer a clean and safe environment. The focus is on functionality over beauty.
People in Japan share a strong sense of community, which contributes to the overall well-being of the city. This communal mindset is vital for urban life to thrive.
Children can walk home alone from school in Japan, showcasing the high level of trust and respect in society. This cultural norm is different from what many might see in other countries.

Some common phrases can be confusing or just plain wrong. For example, saying 'I could care less' means you actually care, which is the opposite of what you might want to say.
Many sayings are often used without understanding their true meaning. 'It begs the question' should indicate a follow-up question, not just a topic you'd like to discuss.
There's a misconception about democracy and republics. The United States is both, and the terms shouldn't be used to support undemocratic ideas.

LA has an exceptional bus network which makes it easy to get around without a car.
Walking in LA requires planning, patience, and strong legs due to its size and challenges.
Exploring LA on foot reveals unique aesthetics, from hedges to plane spotting parks, offering a different perspective of the city.

Istanbul is a city with deep historical significance and a sense of completeness.
Istanbul's dichotomous nature reflects a blend of resolved contradictions and ritualized memories.
Devconnect in Istanbul is a tech event set in a city entrenched in history and antiquity.

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Homelessness is visibly growing in places like Eugene, Oregon. Many people are struggling with addiction, making the urban areas feel unsafe.
The Section Eight housing program provides help but also limits people's ability to improve their income. This setup keeps many people in a cycle of poverty.
During the train journey, the landscape reflected the struggles of many towns, showing a lack of hope and job opportunities. There's a sense of despair that impacts people's lives across the country.

You can notice the passage of time by observing people's behaviors, rather than just looking at a clock or calendar.
Certain events and trends, like the busy gym in January, can happen in predictable patterns every year.
Every month has its own unique signs, like holiday decorations or weather changes, which can help you identify the time of year.

Conversations with Gurdjieff touched on the importance of strengthening the feeling of 'I' by emphasizing that it comes as a result of all efforts, and may take time to notice the change.
During challenging times, events that appear to be obstacles can actually lead to valuable insights and growth when viewed from an esoteric perspective.
The journey described illustrates the meeting with Gurdjieff's family, his adaptable nature to various tasks, and the unique cultural setting of Alexandropol where Gurdjieff's family came from, showcasing a mix of Armenian, Greek, and Tartar influences.