How To Bond with a Russian
I’ve heard people say, “Russian people are so aloof to strangers, so unfriendly.” Well, that’s because you don’t know how to properly start a conversation with a Russian.
You don’t start off happily smiling, asking how their day is — weirdo. You start by loudly complaining. Just wait — another Russian will join right in.
Doesn’t matter what it’s about. There’s always a reason. The price of onions, bad drivers, weather, the bank, the homeowners association — you pick. Be loud, be upset, point fingers. Soon, you’ll find a group of Russians grumbling, nodding, and pointing fingers right beside you. Now that you’re complaining together, you’re no longer strangers.
Suddenly you realize, “Oh… we are cut from the same cloth… brother.” Life is shit, but at least I’m not alone.
And here’s the thing — it works with anybody. Not just Russians. It works with the Turkish, with Sri Lankans, with Americans—with anyone. If you want to quickly befriend a grumpy-looking person, complain next to them. “Screw them! And them! And them!” They’ll turn to you and say, “WOW. I feel the same way! Oh my God, you get me. Brother.”
It’s harder to bond over something positive. Say, “The sun is out, beautiful weather,” and the person next to you will likely reply, “It is! And it’s hurting my eyes.”
“Lovely day!” – “You’ve got to be kidding.”
“Awful weather” – “That’s the beginning of a beautiful friendship… Brat”.