Now that I have been here for a while, though, I have been amazed at how well Finns take care of each other and their friends. For example: when I needed things for my new, very empty apartment, my professor and her friends found silverware, dishes, and even a kitchen table for me to borrow while I am here. When a Finn decides that they are your friend, they really have your back. (And also expect you to have theirs!)
I have also learned to be very careful how I answer the question "Mitä kuuluu (How are you)?" Americans usually ask this question to be polite, and expect a short answer, but if you ask a Finn how he or she is doing, that person is likely to give a very honest response! At the same time, if a Finn asks this question, they really do care whether you are having a good or a bad day, and why. A short, typical American answer can be hurtful, because a Finn may not think you trust them.
As I think about the differences between Americans and Finns - between peaches and coconuts - it is easy to forget that what is polite in one place may be seen as rude somewhere else. As an American living in Finland, I appreciate the depth of conversations. When a Finn asks how you are doing, they really want to know, and it is okay to give an honest answer. In the end, neither way is really right or wrong. It is about learning to be aware of and then to appreciate the differences!
