Colombia and the United States

Lately, I've been thinking about the differences and similarities between Colombia and the United States.

Being from Colombia, I have been able to experience two different cultures in my life. Similarities and differences exist between Colombia and the U.S. For instance, the U.S is a country on immigrants, has a multicultural society, and is made up of different races, religions, and political beliefs. In Colombia, however, it is strange to see people from other cultures. The majority of people in Colombia are Catholic. Catholics are against abortion and the death penalty. On the other hand, the U.S. is a Protestant country that allows the death penalty and abortion.

The U.S. is a powerful and wealthy country that offers many great opportunities for its people. People have the opportunity to receive a good education, have laws to govern working conditions, and have availability of good medical coverage. In contrast, Colombia is a poor country and cannot offer its people the same educational, legal, and medical services.

People in the U.S. are concerned about the needs of their children and the elderly. In Colombia, however, I can find people of all ages begging for money or food and sleeping in the streets. Poverty in Colombia is one of the biggest reasons why many people are in the illegal drug business. Colombia is a big producer and exporter of illegal drugs, and the U.S is a major market for these drugs. Both governments, I am happy to say, have been working hard to eliminate the production and sale of illegal drugs.

Technology in the U.S is available everywhere, but in Colombia, there is a need to find resources to upgrade and expand the infrastructure. The U.S is a major exporter and importer of many agricultural products. In the same way, Colombia’s economy has a traditional agricultural base and is known especially for its word-famous coffee and fruit production.

Another similarity between the U.S.  and Colombia is the value of the family. To both cultures, the family is the most basic but important part of our lives. We always want to have good and happy families. Family is the place to share happiness and sadness and encourage ourselves when we are in difficult problems. As a result, we can get over all the problems in our lives and live happily. Also, people in both countries are warm, friendly, and very polite. I have noticed people in U.S. say “thank you” a lot. In Colombia, it is similar the most common expressions are please, could you do me a favor, and thank you.