Owl simulation

I have now experienced the Owl simulation on both sides: the American and the X-ian. Last spring I was the American. I could not stop talking. I learned a lot about myself: that I am not comfortable with silence. I didn't realize how much I talked and how much I stared. So I remember to tell myself that silence and quiet are OK. I do not need to fill the void with words!

Now, several months later, I had the privilege of being the X-ian. Having a culture that minimizes eye-contact as a form of respect was interesting. Within a few minutes, eye contact felt intimidating. I was able to view the American culture and form of communication from an outside and separate perspective. Plus, it was fun having the our "man-peh" sit in the background while we women made the decisions. :)