Guest Post–Life in Turkiye, by Uncle Spike–Monday, March 30, 2015

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I love learning about other places.  That’s why I love blogging and reading other blog posts.

Yesterday, Uncle Spike (former Brit now living in Turkey)  did a really nice post on Turkiye (Turkey).  He graciously said I could share it with you.

Please read on…I think you will enjoy this post as much as I did.

Western influences continue to transform Türkiye; now whilst some are for the better, that does not account for everything of course, and sometimes I cringe at the needless westernisation that heavily line the vast pockets of the very few – corruption here is a national sport, and one at which we very much excel.

Of course, the populous remain very much Turkish at heart, such as majority blind acceptance of authoritarianism and one of the highest ratios of military/police to population, limited freedoms most westerners cannot fathom, educational challenges you’d scarcely believe, and a highly polarised society which is bordering on levels that raise interesting questions about our future security; particularly considering our regional conflicts that seem to be escalating every week and surround our borders.

But on balance, and having lived in a few countries over many years, and here for a decade, I find the moral fibre of the culture surpasses the negatives. We have unparalleled respect for family, seniority and authority that set the it quite apart from the west (although that may be a contributory factor to some of our challenges too).

If you see six young lads walking down the street, there’s no sense of surprise at all when they greet you with formal politeness, or offer to help an elderly person. When we are out, our only child (7) is readily accepted by much older kids to join in their play (it’s the same on the school bus). But in turn, he automatically greets then as abi/abla (elder brother/sister); such is the cultural difference.

Teachers are revered, as are the elderly. Homes for the elderly… what are they? Never heard of one. Here we look after our own, just as they did for us. That is almost without exception, and something I really value, and probably on the long list of reasons for my immigration. On balance, the financial and political hardships experienced are outweighed by the very Turkishness of daily life.

BUT… as much as changes creeps through, there are some things that don’t change, like roadside services away from the metropolitan areas. Happy weekend folks.

SPIKE

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If you want to read more of his posts…he is an orchardist with all sorts of fruit trees and olive trees. Randomly he will post some step by step recipes he and his family enjoy.  Head over here!

Your friend,

Linda

 

19 thoughts on “Guest Post–Life in Turkiye, by Uncle Spike–Monday, March 30, 2015”

  4. Linds, thanks so much for sharing. As a retired CNA and an in-home-health care giver I really relate to the care of our elderly. It is so true about being able to live in your own home and for as long as you can. We all treasure our independence. True respect for others is the key to peace! Will check out Uncle Spike’s blog.

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  6. Hi, thanks for stopping by Pooch Smooches today. What an interesting post about Turkey. Having lived in 3 countries (albeit 3 not super different countries – US, Canada and Bermuda) I’m always interested in hearing about others who move away from their “home”. At first as I read about the difficulties there, I was thinking, gosh I don’t think I could live there. By the end, I was thinking, hmm… maybe we should move there!. Very interesting post!

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  7. Linda

    The bond between Australia and Turkey is one of the strongest of all international bonds – forged
    through a war and as enemies. The Turks won the one in question – now celebrated here and at
    Gallipoli (Anzac Cove on the Dardanelles – the entrance to the Black Sea) – ANZAC DAY 25th April.

    The Bondship between enemies once – a long time ago – have resulted in a true friendship
    between Australia/New Zealand and Turkey.

    This year is the 100th anniversary and at Gallipoli where the numbers have been allotted for the service in a lottery form – the place will be swarming with Aussies and Kiwis (NZ).
    The seas off Gallipoli will be full of anchored large cruise ships with visitors.

    I watch the Dawn Service held at Gallipoli – Australian time about 11.00 am or a bit later.
    It is one of the most somber but moving ceremonies related to war that anyone can imagine.
    A joint venture between – Australia / New Zealand / Turkey.
    The number of young visitors from Australia and NZ is like “A rite of life pilgrimage”.

    I look daily at your blog still. You amaze me with your work ethos.
    Best wishes for an excellent blog on Colorado life.
    Colin

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