The word for a bribe is actually "vzyatka"! I don't have a meaningful comment, but I've always admired and appreciated the tact and sensitivity with which you approach Russia related topics, Gregory. It's understandably rare in the western world and is so heart warming. Seeing how you treat a culture I know well, I can be sure it's the same with the other parts of the world, that I learn about from your podcast and blog.
I've always thought of gift giving as a way of showing the recipient that you know them and what they appreciate — a little bit like "I see you". Personally I don't like getting cash and so when my mum gives me cash every year, it's always a little fraught. It feels like an acknowledgement that she doesn't really know me (she doesn't) and that can sting a little. However, knowing my mum as I do, I recognise that she's a practical person and giving cash means I can buy what I like.
In Japan and Thailand, giving cash in envelopes for the new year (mostly for children), weddings, and funerals is standard (in Japan: crisp bills for weddings; old ones for funerals). I've grown to appreciate the practicality of it, both as sender and receiver.
Since the pandemic, electronic bank transfers via phones are now ubiquitous in Thailand. So in a new twist, it seems that electronically transferring funeral money to the grieving family on the spot is now an option. It's so practical but almost funny to be scanning QR codes or asking the family for their bank details at a funeral and then forwarding them the payment slips (because Thai banks don't show who the senders are)...!
I want to send out a "Thank you" for the recommendation of the "The Ten Minute Bible Hour". I enjoy the indepth teaching with historical context and the like.
As a former teacher, I can tell you that the best gift you can give your children's teachers is well-behaved students. 🩵
The word for a bribe is actually "vzyatka"! I don't have a meaningful comment, but I've always admired and appreciated the tact and sensitivity with which you approach Russia related topics, Gregory. It's understandably rare in the western world and is so heart warming. Seeing how you treat a culture I know well, I can be sure it's the same with the other parts of the world, that I learn about from your podcast and blog.
I've always thought of gift giving as a way of showing the recipient that you know them and what they appreciate — a little bit like "I see you". Personally I don't like getting cash and so when my mum gives me cash every year, it's always a little fraught. It feels like an acknowledgement that she doesn't really know me (she doesn't) and that can sting a little. However, knowing my mum as I do, I recognise that she's a practical person and giving cash means I can buy what I like.
In Japan and Thailand, giving cash in envelopes for the new year (mostly for children), weddings, and funerals is standard (in Japan: crisp bills for weddings; old ones for funerals). I've grown to appreciate the practicality of it, both as sender and receiver.
Since the pandemic, electronic bank transfers via phones are now ubiquitous in Thailand. So in a new twist, it seems that electronically transferring funeral money to the grieving family on the spot is now an option. It's so practical but almost funny to be scanning QR codes or asking the family for their bank details at a funeral and then forwarding them the payment slips (because Thai banks don't show who the senders are)...!
I want to send out a "Thank you" for the recommendation of the "The Ten Minute Bible Hour". I enjoy the indepth teaching with historical context and the like.
Congrats on making it to the Vogue list!
Also YES on audio!