Most Americans believe...

that the Oriental peoples are a wiser more serene lot than the rest of us. I mean with so many intellectual philosophies and Confucius and Zen it's understandable.

Well, shit! Imagine how balloon popping was an article I just read about China.

It seems there is a tavern over there that allows, no encourages, violent behavior. Clients may break glasses with impunity. It's OK. In fact, for a modest surcharge (about $6.00 American) one may attack the waiters!

Apparently this is considered some sort of stress release and is good for business.

It's nothing really unique when you stop and think about it. For years, in bars throughout the U.S, customers have been breaking glasses and assaulting waiters.

The only difference is, all you had to pay for was the broken glasses.




QUOTE OF THE DAY:

In the beginning there was nothing...which exploded - KOS blog



Mexico (as I see it):

Animals in Mexico are not treated with the same reverence as they are in the U.S., in fact, they are viewed with suspicion by many people. Many men and most women and children are afraid of dogs. They are wary of cats also and consider them sinister.

Here 'A dog's life' is a phrase with some grit attached to it. Some are pets and are treated decently but most wander the streets dodging cars and stones stealing meals where ever they can. Consequently dogs cannot be trusted to respond well to kissy noises and fondling as many tourists have learned.

Cats? Well what can be said of cats? They are second class citizens in most every country around the world and Mexico is no exception. Their only asset is that they fair better on the streets than dogs. Not because they are better thought of but because they keep to themselves and avoid even the slightest opportunity to chum up with people.

Birds are no different. Wild birds are not amenable to hopping among busy pedestrians pecking at whatever crumbs are dropped. Folks do not think it's particularly cute or useful. Pigeons, naturally, are the exception but nobody can seriously think of a pigeon as a bird. They are pigs with wings.

The wild birds in Mexico, like dogs and cats, avoid contact with people. So, when Leti wanted to have birds in her garden I built a couple of feeders and began putting out seed. I was surprised that no birds came to the feeders. Eventually the seed was carried off by ants.

I could see birds eying the feeders but, apparently, they thought it was some sort of trap. Lots of Mexicans trap and sell wild birds for indoor cages.

Perhaps a month went by before a few sparrows came to visit. Then, a few more. A dove or two. A pair of woodpeckers and some more sparrows. After a bit some more sparrows came, enough so they might be referred to as a flock. Until now, when it could be said the garden is inundated with birds. Every entrance into the garden causes an explosion of flying feathers as they make for high ground.

What started as a half cup a day of bird seed has now grown into a three kilo a week jones. Leti is pleased. The pet store (feed store, actually) owner is pleased. And, it's fun for me too. Where else can one go into a pet store and browse the glass counter cases filled with bird stuff including a selection of razors to be tied to the legs of one's fighting chicken?

And you guys only eat chickens I bet.