We visited the Folklore Center where we played games that were common in Old Russia. It reminded me of Williamsburg, VA, or Old World Wisconsin, where you can also see people in authentic costumes, doing activities from the past. These games were used here as a way to teach young people about values, and also as a meeting place for the community. Young men and women could socialize appropriately under the watchful eyes of their parents. We laughed a lot, and I thought it was a fun experience. We had a nice cup of tea and some well-earned blini, too.
I wonder about how the traditions of the past are preserved here. There is a lot of history in the buildings, and the language, but my hosts haven't ever been to the Folklore Center.
They are from Ukraine, so maybe their traditions are different. Or maybe, like Rochesterians, they don't go to the tourist attractions in their own town. Before I came here, I was expecting to see more of the effects of the Soviet Union around me, but the city is bustling, and colorful, the people are friendly, and the shelves in the stores are full. This morning I saw a Mercedes, a Lexus, and a BMW during my 5 minute walk to school. Globalization is evident everywhere.
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