[Freeda]

The culture of The Villagers for the most part that I have seen is to be very friendly, especially when they are approached with friendliness. Smiling broadly in the face of lack of courteousness or when politely providing advice or suggestions to others (like the man hitting outside the ropes) is the best way to 'indoctrinate' others to begin to understand that they have now moved to (or are visiting) the south, and, more specifically TV, where courtesy and graciousness is the standard. Think of it as kindly helping others learn the ways of TV.

It may take a while for some to catch on, but none of us are ever too old to become friendlier, if that is what we are constantly exposed to. Plus, keeping a smile on your face in the presence of others who may not be or appear as happy will keep their attitude from affecting yours, and will keep you more able to see the humorous side of many otherwise negative situations - just smile (and, after you are away from the situation, shake your head, if it is still bothering you) and you'll feel alot of the stress go away.

Another thing I was taught years ago that helps with keeping a negative thought or situation from affecting your own mood is to move your hands in front of you in the motion of 'dusting them off' and then hold them next to each other upright in front of your mouth and 'blow' across them - as if to blow away any remaining 'residue'. It is the figurative act of letting go of something instead of holding onto it.