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is 100% dead-on about this. Ask any real Russian and they will explain it as well. The "stans" are cultures within cultures. Not much Russian about most of the Muslims living there. They were invaded and subdued by Russians. That's about it.
For a good comparison imagine you seek a nice lady in Arizona. You know, an [i:09746381df]American[/i:09746381df]. She lives in Arizona. But she happens to be [b:09746381df]Native [/b:09746381df]American (Indian as we called them before politically correct language was the norm).
You can love her and all but could hardly compare her soul, beliefs or culture to those of white Anglo-Saxon Arizonians. :)
Do not fall into denial. You should be assessing all the things the guys in this thread are cautioning you about. I am telling you from first hand experience that just bringing anyone to this country from the east will have major challenges to it. Any added baggage will be the straw that broke the camel's back. Pun intended :lol:
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We don't know that Ivan, (Vanya) is a white (Christian) Anglo-Saxon either.
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Hmm... I think I might step aside from the main stream and offer this:
Is this venture about finding a Russian, or finding a woman who holds similar values, thoughts, interests and desires. Is it about chemistry or culture? For me, [u:fbbd4d3472]and only speaking for me[/u:fbbd4d3472], I don't give a :bleep: where Anna is from. It is all about how we are together that matters most to me. No, I can not put an empty bottle of wine on the table, or offer her a drink standing across a threshold, or give her an even number of flowers... etc. Culture affects who she is, of course, but it's not about culture. I don't like her because she's Russian, I like her because she's Anna.
There are those of us who can not say something similar. They have not taken the time to understand who she is, and how they fit together. I suggest you take that time. Go, visit, meet her family, understand who she is and how the both of you fit each other. If her family has strong religious beliefs, then she will eventually adopt the same. If not, then it's less likely. Don't we all tend to become more like our parents as we age?
It seems to me that you understand the situation, and have the intelligence and maturity to do the right things. Go. Get to know this girl. Be realistic. If it's not right, have the courage to admit it to yourself and to her. This is the hardest part. We make such a financial, time and emotional committment to these things, it's sometimes impossible to step away.
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Sometimes I feel like this website is like a Greek faternity. If you can live through the 'hazing' you will become a strong member of society.
I have noticed that Russian may be the spoken language but Uzbek is the preferred language. It is the cultural heritage left in tact. Another good reason to keep my 'pants on' is to give utmost respect to her cultural beliefs and to avoid any 'shotgun' weddings or would it be more sword-like?
Yes we have only talked lightly of our various relgious beliefs. I will make it a point to add that more into our conversations. I would think it would be an excellent topic. When you discover a persons beliefs you start to understand them better.
I have to admit, even if the posts tend to be harsh at times. If I take the information and process it and not take it personally, then there is some good stuff in there (in between the beatings).
You guys (and Russian brides) are an excellent resource. You are like older brothers who beat you up but are still very good at giving advance. I know you mean well and are full of lot of good experience and information.
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