Ode to the South
So, this past Fourth of July found me in Wilmington, NC, enjoying a long, action-packed weekend of old friends, new friends, sun, sand, and of course—everyone’s favorite American tradition—booze.
First let me apologize for being remiss with last week’s post, although I see no one else has posted in the interim either. Regardless, I was otherwise engaged last week, and here’s why…
I have visited Wilmington (at the southern tip of North Carolina) for the past 3 Fourths of July, and it just keeps getting better. Several of my friends from high school have decided to make it their home, and I always enjoy spending time with them. But what makes it truly special for me is the new people I meet every time I go.
The South is just
So.
Damn.
Friendly.
I’m amazed by it every time I go. Suddenly what you’re wearing or what you do for a living no longer matter (a welcome respite from what I’m used to in my day-to-day), and all that matters is who you are and what you’re drinking (mostly so someone can buy you your next round).
Don’t get me wrong—I love where I live. There’s nothing like the pace of New York City, not to mention the night life. But the South has a certain charm that keeps drawing me back for more. So much, in fact, that it has started me thinking about whether I might want to end up there someday.
As one of my friends so aptly described it, “living [in Wilmington] is like one big vacation.” From what I’ve seen, I have to agree.
What is it about the South that makes people so friendly and cordial? Is it the slower pace of life? Are people socialized to actually care about one another, instead of seeing each other as simply obstacles and annoyances on the way to yet another subway ride? When I’m confronted with the alternative, I can’t help but wonder why people in the North are so unfriendly.
Although at the start of my trip I felt like an asshole Northerner, I was soon brought out of my shell. I started making friends at the drop of a hat, I picked up a nice little—albeit unnoticeable to anyone but me—southern drawl. I got some SUN, which anyone who lives in the mid-Atlantic region knows is a rarity this summer. And I had the time of my life.
Yes, I am continually drawn to the South and its charm. And I’m going back. I’ve already started planning my return trip.
July 10th, 2009 at 10:51 am
all that and we’re amazingly slow moving here! i have never been to wilmington even though i live not too far away in cola, south carolina. i need to make a visit to the home of Dawson’s Creek!
July 10th, 2009 at 12:23 pm
That’s how we’re brought up
July 10th, 2009 at 1:52 pm
Its the way we’re raised. Although, most people argue that Texas really isn’t the south…but we still think it is! We’re still friendly, and charming!
Glad you enjoyed your time!
July 10th, 2009 at 3:29 pm
I know exactly what you mean. My husband is from the south and I have a ton of family there. It is such a different atmosphere but in a GOOD way. Friendly is a foreign word in some places around the US it seems. Like just being friendly BECAUSE no reason in particular you know? Love it!
July 10th, 2009 at 9:31 pm
I have this conversation often with a friend from Raleigh because I have such a huge crush on the South. He contends that the charm and friendliness over there masks some pretty dark attitudes. I figure that as a native, he would know.