Aug. 21, 1996
As I sat outside the other night, peering
at the skyline of Seattle from the most spectacular vantage point in the city, I embarked on an
animated conversation with a young Dane about the merits of our two countries. There was no
competition. We seemed engaged in a mutual admiration society. Neither of us could say enough
wonderful things about the other's homeland.
Why am I so attracted to that tiny European country? My views may appear as huge generalizations, but they still represent my impression of a nation and its people, and it is this impression, accurate or not, which has formed my personal opinion.
Danes tend to be positive, warm, friendly, and intelligent people. They are liberal to a fault and value highly the most important things in life: family, education, and culture, and they are willing to put their money where their mouthes are. Taxes may be high, but the services they provide aremost often worth the price.
I traveled throughout Denmark in the summer of 1995, and as an American tourist I actually felt wanted and respected. My habits, tastes, and idiosyncrasies weren't challenged, questioned, or ridiculed. The subtle effects that this kindliness produced were not lost on me. I felt comfortable, at home, and at ease with my "foreignness." Obviously, the fact that most Danes spoke English beautifully appealed to a chatterbox like me. But that was merely a bonus. What attracted me most to the Danes and Denmark was and is the liberalism and open-mindedness of so many of the people.
There is a healthy attitude towards life in Denmark and a commonsense approach to living it. Several years ago, a young Danish friend innocently asked me why I held a certain opinion which represented very traditional American thinking. I opened my mouth to answer, but suddenly could not for the life of me give him any rationale. His position on the topic was so forthright and logical, while mine was so convoluted and nonsensical. My opinion changed.
There is an anal side to the Danes. As a group they tend to dress, decorate, and
design predictably. Styles reflect their orderliness and tidiness. But
these trappings are superficial. The Danes are at ease with themselves and their values. They don't
fear what is natural in life. They enjoy it. And I respect and enjoy them.
