Chasing the spirit #3: Core beliefs.
Here in the final part of this short series is another selection of thoughts from the mind of a Russian friend and colleague concerning the Russian mindset and its place on the world. I write of course as if there is a single, unified mind; a notion that is patently ridiculous of course. That’s the paradox, we accept that everyone is an individual and then ask what are a nation of people are “like” – as a whole. I have mentioned this before; that Russia is big enough for everything to found true, should you look hard enough, -as is the case with every nation on Earth.
As outsiders it is easy to fall back on lazy stereotypes and the dubious information that they blithely proclaim. Although if everything is true, somewhere; then logically examples that fit the stereotype can be found true also. Surely, such a generalisation is “born” because its statement reoccurs over and over again? There must be a reason why it’s message constantly reappears. Partly this is through ignorance and superficial knowledge, but also there is (or was) a colonel of truth, -even if misunderstood- that exists at its heart. Over to my colleague:
“Russian mentality includes both the European and Asian ways of thinking but at the same time has very specific features of its own. For example: in ordinary life, many Russians seek solitude and isolation, rarely socialising in crowds or at large-scale events. The desire to avoid their own countrymen appears the most apparent when on vacation abroad. This behavior is not typical amongst other peoples, and foreigners may perceive it as something strange, even inexplicable. From the Russian perpective however; this is behaviour is quite normal and can be easily explained.”
Liquid and gas
Allow me to interject here. In the original text there now followed an elaborate analogy where other nations are compared to “water”; flowing together, whereas Russian people are “gas”; remaining disperesed until the pressure of an imposed crisis forces them togeter in an impenetrable bond. Consider this the shortened version! Let’s continue:-
“In such critical moments Russians become the most powerful people on Earth; it is the power of unity, spirit and truth, which has been shown many times throughout Russian history. And this is also another feature that differentiates Russians from other Nations. The majority of people in Russia -or raised in Russian culture- have a unique sense of meaning and ultimate truth. Perhaps that’s why they find it hard to live in this imperfect world; knowing, after all, how life should be.
Due to such over-sensitivity and natural wisdom, Russians can hardly be called ordinary, down-to-earth, simple or easygoing in all respects. Most Russians avoid formal or superficial communication, refraining from talk about “nothing” or indulging pointless pastimes in the company of indifferent and boring people, – it is simply not interesting. Similarly; pretence and double standards are not the characteristics of a ‘normal’ Russians.
If you are able to understand and accept such traits, then the Russian people will reveal their best in return and you will not be bored. Be ready though, for unexpected turns, sincere and active interaction, attentive and thoughtful communication, varied emotions and independent judgments. Your genuine interest and understanding will be rewarded with warm, beneficial communication. This may not be immediate, but after some time they will become your closest and faithful friends. Like no one else, they know what is real, enduring friendship and how to appreciate it.
Words of warning
It follows then that Russians prefer to avoid contact with cowardly, hypocritical, superficial people, or those that are dwell soley in the ordinary or mundane. They dislike liars and traitors, the disrespectful, selfish and indifferent, the materially minded, the ignorant and rude, or those without a sense of humor. For such people, it will be very difficult to find a common language with the Russians.
In addition, if you want a long conversation with the Russians, you should know that Russian people have from time to time need “выяснять отношения” (vyyasnyat’ otnosheniya); to sort things out or to clear up a situation. Here they will share the accumulated questions, thoughts and concerns of each party and may argue, complain and criticise. This happens quite often, even between best friends, relatives and colleagues. However, this does not counter the fact that the participants still respect or even love each other. It’s just part of the normal process of interaction and communication between people.
You may not be ready for this of course; if you can be hurt by criticism or emotional statement, if you cannot accept a difference of opinion or plain speaking. If you find it hard to forgive or to make an effort to find compromise then you’d better not start to communicate or interact with these complex, strong and interesting people.”
Another fascinating incite. Again, feel free to agree or disagree, but at least try to understand. I have adapted this work from it’s English translation. Many thanks to the original author who prefers to remain nameless, however you can find the original (translated) work and a lot more on Live Journal.
