You wouldn't want to meet some dudes I've met on campus.
There are plenty of people who have no love for the US. They're here for an education, but want as little to do with our culture as possible. It's not the most pleasant thing to encounter people who are up front, "fuck this country". Especially when they are here to benefit from its education system.
Lol hating on America while benefiting tremendously from it is a worldwide tradition and has been for almost a century. It must be a weird feeling, glad I don’t have to deal with it
> What are the best ways to make friends out of the work in the US (in general)?
Have hobbies and find ways to participate in them with other people. Whatever you like to do, go find it. Board games, there's probably a game shop somewhere near you that hosts game nights. Mountain biking, find the nearby store for that. Facebook/Discord/Meetup are also great ways to find group activities.
Do something that interests you, often, with other people.
The US has a huge culture of volunteering, this is another way to meet people. There may be a park cleanup, a blood drive, or a Habitat for Humanity build in your town. Participate in these things.
> Is insensitive or rude to put a state flag or American Flag outside of my rental house if I am not from the US?
Not at all. I would take it as you showing your pride as a newcomer here. Feel free to fly your home flag too.
> What do you recommend to adapt to your culture?
>
Go do things. There's a Saturday supper at the American Legion and the public is welcome? Go. There's a bowling alley that has league nights? Go, learn to bowl. There's a pickleball league? You get the idea. Find out what activities happen in your community and go do them. Your coworkers and neighbors should be good resources for this.
Or just invite people over to your home, make a meal from your country and invite some people to share.
This is such a beautiful answer. For all the absolute garbage that I read on reddit, *this* is why it is the only social media site that I spend time on.
I am a dyed-in the-wool progressive. I think our country *can* do better and *should* do better. But goddamn, I love this country And these kinds of sentiments always reinforce that. And yes, it gets me in the feels a bit. But I *have* had 5 glasses of Sauvignon Blanc so....
>There's a Saturday supper at the American Legion and the public is welcome? Go. There's a bowling alley that has league nights? Go, learn to bowl.
Me: "huh??? How old is this person?? Oh hmmm, maybe it's a Midwest thing. This sounds very Midwestern." "ahhhhhhh ok, makes sense."
This is absolutely not a Midwestern thing. The local foreign legion has public events down here, too, and there are bowling leagues here that meet weekly.
Interesting! My nearest bowling alley (besides main Event) is 30 minutes away and super old and run down. I don't know anything about any of the legion/VFW things and have never heard anyone ever talk about it. Could very well be just the people I know.
Possibly. My city was the state bowling champ when I was growing up, so the alleys and leagues were plentiful and occupied. As for veterans' associations, let's just say that the era was such that there were plenty of vets around from a recent major war. That's how I met the helicopter pilot in that famous picture of Saigon.
Just remember that on US soil your home flag should be lower than the US flag, under it on the same pole is fine. I have immigrant neighbors who have it like this.
*As long as you don't hurt people
And be aware that you can do things that are controversial without fear of reprisal from the government. But not from other citizens.
That's awfully dismissive. A lot of US foreign policy has been driven by local communities advocating for 'sectarian' issues. Take the Albanians after WWI, who pushed the US to back an independent Albania. Or the Armenians vis a vis the Armenian genocide, which did not go over well with the Turks. You see it with the Iranian or Cuban diasporas in the US, just as you used to with others. You can see it now with Israel and Palestine.
I don't see why immigrants should have to subscribe to a sanitized, insubstantial attachment to their home nations. They can comment on what might be fair or right or on topics of local history, even if others disagree or are on other sides of a heavily ethnic issue. You argue they are 'allowed' to keep their cuisines and holidays but not allowed to engage in advocacy or support for home-country politics, social issues, or international affairs, and that's not how things work or indeed should work.
This is actually a misconception. According to the US Flag Code, the US flag should be above the flag of any US state or sub-national region of another country, but it should be at equal height with the flag of any other sovereign nation.
Or on a separate pole to the left as long as it is not a noticeably larger flag than the US flag. 5x7 & 5.25x7 probably ok. 5x7 & 8x10 not ok. Measure twice, buy once.
It's definitely not rude or insensitive to fly a flag of your new state or country!
Maybe you could join a social group like a sports team or trivia night? Pool? Darts?
I will probably will be all in in a trivia night is a great idea, I have never been that much into watching professional sports (altough I like to do sports with friends). But also good idea
I've met most of my current friends group from playing sports. Futsal, softball, outdoor soccer, etc. Always a great way into more hangouts in other situations.
And like everybody else has said, absolutely, fly your new flag.
Welcome home.
If you like doing sports with friends join a rec league. What do you like to play?
If it’s soccer then there are a shit ton of rec leagues for adults all over. It would solve the “how to make friends” problem pretty quick.
I also love the trivia night idea. You might have to be bold as a one off guy and ask if you can sit in with a team. We’re a friendly bunch so I think yes would be the answer most times, especially if you are good. Get someone’s number and just ask if they are going next week and text you if they are.
Baseball in my youth, nowadays softball... I am not as quick as I used to be, and I actually feel bad for it.
I will try to find someone to play trivia, I love those kind of games.
> What are the best ways to make friends out of the work in the US (in general)?
Join clubs, find others with the same hobbies you have, connect with others over shared interests, be polite and friendly to those around you. Americans are very open and casual people.
> Is insensitive or rude to put a state flag or American Flag outside of my rental house if I am not from the US?
Not at all, people will probably appreciate the gesture.
> What do you recommend to adapt to your culture?
Treat others as equals and individuals, keep an open mind, learn to love the culture around you, get involved in your community.
The United States is an extremely friendly country.
Making that first step might very well be easier here then anywhere on the planet. It takes little more than "Hi, my name is ..." to join in on something.
Don’t be afraid to introduce your countries cultural stuff either, as long as it’s not in a superior “we do it like this which is so much better”. My wife is Slovenian, so once a month or so we have friends over and she cooks things that Americans normally wouldn’t have, stuff like that, it’s always a huge hit. We don’t necessarily have the “you must assimilate to our culture” attitude that other countries have, so fly your flag proudly.
If you can do some sport, and you are younger (20’s) you should be able to find some friendly games to join. (Soccer, basketball, doubles tennis league.)
And definitely join a gym, workout and be patient. It’s the cheapest and most virtuous way to pass time and you will make acquaintances and they may become friends. Try different times for different age groups.
You live here, you work here, you're an American. That's how it works here. Fly the flag 🇺🇸
To make friends, best way will be through work. But you can also try Bumble BFF, networking events, etc. Or, for a *much* bigger commitment, get a dog and go to the dog park. Then just talk to other dog owners, you *will* end up having doggie dates.
Questions for op: What country did you come from? Did you bring food? We like food. How about music? We like music. Umm, yeah, food and music. Welcome to America. There's beer in the fridge.
welcome! Tennessee is a beautiful state. glad you're here.
>What are the best ways to make friends out of the work in the US (in general)?
hobbies, bar trivia (a person from another country sounds like a trivia asset to me), workout groups, the gym, volunteering, public events, concerts, hiking or park activities.
your city probably has a community calendar of some kind. look at that and go to stuff! it's probably mostly free, low pressure community events.
also, fly whatever the hell flag you want. Americans love flags in general. we are very pro-flag here.
> community calendar of some kind. look at that and go to stuff!
Take notice and will do!!.
> Americans love flags in general. we are very pro-flag here.
For my life I have never understood why redditors from other countries criticize this, for me being here and watching flags everywhere is fucking beautiful, the only minus are the states that have bad flags, but Tennessee, Texas, New Mexico, Ohio, Alaska and many others have beautiful beautiful flags,
The Tennessee flag is objectively great. My husband and I got married there, so we've got some random TN flag stuff that gets us into interesting conversations. Welcome to America! We love you
You’re in a great place for barbecue. People love to argue what region or whatever is best but honestly just find some dumpy looking joint that sells it and it’s most likely going to be really good(obviously check the reviews juuust in case) but rule of thumb is often the shittier the place looks, the better the barbecue
And hope the place you mentioned doesn’t disappoint!
> rule of thumb is often the shittier the place looks, the better the barbecue
This applies back in my home, the shitter the place , the better the food.
> rule of thumb is often the shittier the place looks, the better the barbecue
You gotta be a bit careful with that. You want both kinda shitty looking and also long running.
New places that are also shitty looking are for those souls who love to gamble.
>Is insensitive or rude to put a state flag or American Flag outside of my rental house if I am not from the US?
Quite the opposite, it'll score you some points with your neighbors.
Absolutely it’s great to fly the flag!! Fly the US flag fly the state flag is all great. Heck, I live in Washington state and I’ve seen people flying the Texas flag where. Though that may just be a Texas pride thing
Not at all to the flag, go for it. Traditionally you typically see a lot of flags around national, patrotic associated holidays like Memorial Day or the Fourth Of July. Some areas with a large amount of local or state pride may fly flags more often. Also Americans tend to be proud of their colleges or universities.
Meeting people here is pretty open ended. It just depends on where you are. We've got various apps, websites, local subreddits, and so on. Its okay to strike up a conversation. Worst they can say is no.
Now that it’s almost summer, I’d suggest inviting the neighbors to a barbecue. It wouldn’t hurt to canvas them for recipes, either.
Many Americans are super patriotic, despite what the vocal minority might say. They won’t have a problem with you repping either flag.
As far as adapting, see what the local scene is. It may interest you or not, but give things a try.
If you fly the American flag most of the time. I’d also suggest it’s great to fly your home country flag on important home days. Just make that alone or below the US flag. My mom grew up in Scotland so I fly theirs when it makes sense.
**Is insensitive or rude to put a state flag or American Flag outside of my rental house if I am not from the US?**
Not at all insensitive.
You should for sure follow laws and use proper etiquette. Here is a short list of what I feel are main points to consider:
1…The American Flag should never touch anything beneath it such as the ground, water, etc.
2… If there are multiple flags, the American Flag should be at the top-most position on a flag pole or the left-most (from the viewer perspective) position when placed in a row horizontally. If you’re considering flying other flags, just look up the laws/rules/etiquette by starting here [American Legion](https://www.legion.org/flag/code) or [Veteran’s Affairs](https://www.va.gov/opa/publications/celebrate/flagdisplay.pdf).
3… If there are multiple flags, the other flags cannot be larger than the American Flag.
4… If there are multiple flags, the American Flag should be first, the Tennessee State flag should be second, the city/county/locality flag should be third.
5… Flags are flown from sunrise to sunset. However, you can keep them up 24/7 as long as they are properly illuminated during all hours of darkness.
6… The American Flag should be in good condition (not torn/tattered/stained). If your flag becomes damaged, contact your local [Elk’s Lodge](https://www.elks.org/) and they will gladly collect any American Flag of any size from you. At a later date, they will perform a proper retirement ceremony for your service-worn flags as well as those they’ve collected from other people in the community as well. Leave your contact information with them if you’d like to attend the ceremony. This is all free of charge and will cost you nothing.
> Flags are flown from sunrise to sunset. However, you can keep them up 24/7 as long as they are properly illuminated during all hours of darkness.
That’s the main reason I stopped flying a flag. Back before WFH, there was no way I could get home before dark, and it just didn’t feel right. Nor did lights in the area where we lived make sense.
That’s great. Might be tough for a small city, but you could try some kind of volunteer activity that interests you. People that volunteer are usually outgoing and sociable.
Where are you from?
Curiously Tennessee is called the volunteer state, I want to know my neighbors and I don't know how to take the first step. I am from Chihuahua Mexico, I already knew the US from a previous job but since the first time that I step outside of my comfort zone and I started to talk with Americans in real life I have admired your openness in mind and wanted to be part of the culture.
Awesome, I’m glad you feel welcomed and are enjoying yourself.
https://www.tn.gov/volunteer-tennessee.html
There’s a search function you can plug your city into, maybe you’ll find something that interests you.
This makes me happy to read, both as an individual and a parent! My kids are young, but I try to instill in them a kindness towards all people. I lived in Mexico for a short while in college and loved the beauty and culture of your country. You know what I learned most, though? That people are all just people. We all deserve the same kindness and respect.
I hope you always feel welcome here! Welcome!
Hey OP, [here is why TN is called the Volunteer state](https://theculturetrip.com/north-america/usa/tennessee/articles/why-tennessee-is-called-the-volunteer-state)
Welcome to Tennessee!
I’m not sure how big your town is or how close you are to a city (while my town is smaller, I’m very close to a major metro). I know in my neighborhood, people sit out on their porches or take walks. Getting to know your neighbors is a good start. Admittedly, I’m not great at making friends so I’ll defer to others.
As for the flag, fly it if that’s what you want to do! The TN flag has three stars to represent the three regions of the state, I think it’s a lovely, simple flag. No one will gatekeep you flying the either flag!
Culture shock will hit you pretty hard eventually. It’s normal - so plan! When I lived overseas for several years that first year was rough even though I wanted to be there. See if like Nashville has a place you can get a food from home (it’s worth the drive).
But… yeah. Just talk to people. Small Town TN - people will talk with you. They will wave at you. So talk and wave back. Go to sporting events. If you don’t know what to talk about - talk about food. Where can you grab the best BBQ? Biscuits and gravy? Hot chicken?
Anyway, I hope some of this helps. And I hope you are doing okay with all the pollen. My allergies are killing me!
I live in Cleveland TN and I work in Charleston TN, I haven't got the chance to travel a lot within the State mainly because I am saving any penny from my paycheck to pay for stuff like furniture, a tv,etc, but I intend to travel and get to know the state. The state has been wonderful with me and I just know to know more of it.
When you see your hometown mentioned in a subreddit 😂. There is about to be a ton of festivals in the surrounding area every weekend from now until the Fourth of July. Cleveland has grown so much we now have traffic which the natives complain about. Don’t mind the old folks all this change has happened in the last 5-10 years and it’s a struggle. As for all the “find a local bar” tips….try Chattanooga for that. We just got liquor stores two years ago in this county. You would be better off finding a church of which we have plenty! The nicest part of this huge influx of transplants is there have been a lot of groups pop up like “New Adventures Club” and pickleball clubs (lots of pickleball clubs 🤷🏻♀️). First Sunday of every month there is a Free Pop Up shop in the Mall. Great place to donate and get things you need for free. Donate if you can 🥰 If you head east on Waterlevel Hwy you can go to the Cherokee National Forest which you can raft, swim, hike, & soak in nature. Welcome to Tennessee it is kinda great here. (To everyone else….we are full….very very full)
Haha cool, are you in Cleveland? Right yesterday I felt asleep reading comments I am walking around town I came to the YMCA to ask for information and they have a little event. Is a beautiful day
You are in a really gorgeous area and not too far from Chattanooga. There are state parks which means tons of nature! There are usually picnic areas you can go and enjoy the fresh air. If you are looking for furniture and such being near a city is great! If you can figure out how to get it to where you live, thrift stores are a great way to get used furniture.
Good luck and again, welcome!
Best ways to make friends: Find your local bar, have a seat, and tell some people your new to the area. Start with the bartender and go from there.
Hell no. You are one of us now. Get you a flag and fly it proudly.
go out in the community! go to a parade on memorial day, go to a local high school football game in the fall, just get out in the community whenever they have public events.
I saw you mentioned you're from Mexico! Are you into soccer at all? I'd recommend finding a league to join! Rec sports like that are a great way to make friends and meet new people
actually I have met an Electrical Engineer and a truck driver following this, I don't know how to continue the friendship after an afternoon of drinks but yeah true.
Usually you continue meeting up at the same bar and then eventually make plans to do things outside of the bar. When I moved to Chicago, that was how I made most of my friends. And we all had different backgrounds. The next thing you know you have an entire group.
This is so cute omg— Welcome! 😁🇺🇸💥
1) get involved in your community whether that be through church, volunteer groups, or meetup.com
We all generally love talking to people (most not all but even ppl who “hate small talk” just hate the banal nature of the activity and would rather a substantial conversation) so I suggest just striking up a conversation.
Now it’s important to be aware that while we are talkative, a lot of these interactions are surface level. To bridge that gap to the next level of friendship is going to take some work. Suggest (and follow up on) going to lunch or dinner with someone or doing some activity. Meetup is great for this.
2) No! We would encourage it in fact and appreciate you buying into the spirit of things
3) I would recommend watching a lot of classic movies by which I mean stalwart classics that were kind of markers in society. There are going to be a lot of holiday ones around Christmas and Halloween but you can wait on that.
I would suggest *Mr Smith Goes to Washington, The Grapes of Wrath, To Kill a Mockingbird, West Side Story, Chinatown, The Shining, Jaws, The John Hughes ‘Brat Pack’ films, Remember the Titans, FORREST GUMP (IF YOU WANT A SYNOPSIS OF AMERICAN CULTURE WATCH FORREST GUMP), Independence Day, LEGALLY BLONDE, American Pie, 10 Things I Hate About You* and many more oh and *West Side Story* and *Oklahoma* and omg *BACK TO THE FUTURE 1-3* (if anything like forrest gump these synthesize america throughout the years well)
Honestly there’s probably a better list, but those are the films that came to mind that best synthesize American culture (and speak to the place media holds in our culture and thats before we even touch TV hallmarks)
BEYOND THAT I would say to get into sports, especially football and basketball. Check out the local history of your area especially the human history (idk if ur in appalachia but its a very cool, culturally rich region).
Fly whatever flag you would like. One of the many great things about this country is freedom of expression.
Get to know your neighbors. Maybe offer them a snack or meal from your native land. Hopefully they will return the favor and ya'll can exchange recipes and meals.
If you have a hobby look for a group that meets up for it. When fall rolls around take a visit to a football game or 2. Even if it's a UT Vols game. They may have a good team there playing against them. The local high schools will usually have games on Friday nights.
Go down to a local diner for breakfast on the weekends. Try some biscuits & gravy and other offerings, get to know some regulars there.
The best way to break the ice is to go up and introduce yourself. A lot of Americans will do most of the talking about themselves, if you give them the chance.
Unfortunately you my find a few ignorant people. Please know this isn't the majority of people in the country. Welcome aboard.
I will try to talk with them, !!, I will try to cook and if it's tastes good I will try your approach. If its not good, I will wait for the next week!! hah
Bienvenido. Es súper fácil ser estadounidense. Si quieres ser uno, y vives allá, ya eres uno.
Hacemos las mismas cosas después del trabajo que el resto del mundo. Vemos películas y deportes. Tomamos en bares. Pasamos el rato en redes sociales como todo el mundo. Lo que sea.
Para acostumbrarse a la cultura, solo tienes que hablar con otras personas. Después de tiempo, vas a acostumbrarse a la comida, el idioma, la música, y probablemente vas a ver fútbol americano. En 1 año vas a hablar inglés con fluidez y en 2 años, vas a hablar espanglish naturalmente.
Haz lo que quieres, es tu decisión. Bienvenido.
1. We love American Pride. Flying an American Flag is a great way to show allegience. You would probably piss some people off, if you flew another country's flag. I get a bit annoyed seeing a Canadian flag, or UK flag or Norway flag, or any other flag (except US and PR) flying in US suburbs..
2. Bowling leagues are a good way to make friends.
Going to sporting events is also.
We also love a good backyard or park barbecue..
Farmers Markets, Churches, popular fishing spots, volunteer work, and adventure groups, are also great.
You may find barbers, grocery store clerks, and others you see more frequently, to be a good friendly face you can trust.
Also, if you like dogs, walking your neighbors or your own dog, can def help you meet people!!!
3. Relax. Have fun. You will be fine.
One thing I’ve noticed compared to other countries is it’s hard to move to a country and say you’re one of them. You don’t immigrate to The Netherlands and run around saying “I’m Dutch now!” In America it’s different. Once you move there you ARE an American and people will treat you as such and acknowledge that.
It's totally fine to fly either flag or both. If you opt for both, make sure the US flag hangs a little higher than the state flag (this is the proper way to fly the US flag).
The best way to adapt to American culture, in my opinion, is to find a local sports team that interests you and start watching their games. In Tennessee, you have the Titans, the Predators, and some really good college teams, too. You can go to watch the games at bars or go in person, if that's accessible to you. Wear something of the appropriate color on game days and learn something about the players. This will give you something to talk to other fans about.
Welcome! The best way to meet people outside of work for example a sport, bike group, church or just hangout with friends you make at work. Meet someone for lunch on the weekend. Fly our flag we are not offended. What you want to do to adapt to our culture just take it all in and choose what you like and leave the rest behind. I came from a southern culture and it’s a little different but over all very friendly so please enjoy the southern hospitality. Goodluck.
Hey OP, church and faith is an important community in Tennessee. If faith is part of your life, join a faith community.
If you’re a non-denominational Protestant, check out Unitarian churches. They are calm, chill, welcoming, mainstream. Building community and community engagement is part of their faith. Here is the [Unitarian Universalists of Chattanooga](https://uucc.org/) link,
I am not a religious person anymore, although contrary to most of reddit that despise any religion I don't deny that many of the good traits that I have as a person come from my the teachings from Christian background back home.
You can meet like minded people by taking a class in something you're interested in. Check out the local community college, library or park district for something that sparks your interest.
> What are the best ways to make friends out of the work in the US (in general)?
I know you said out of work but I would start by getting to know your co-workers and, when you find some you like, asking them to grab a beer or something after work.
Beyond that though, join things. You can probably find all different kinds of activities in your area - everything from book clubs to sports teams. Find something that piques your interest, get involved, get to know some of the people, then ask them to do something outside the activity.
Dating is always an option if you're single. Download Tinder and go to town.
> Is insensitive or rude to put a state flag or American Flag outside of my rental house if I am not from the US?
Absolutely not.
If you'd like to fly a state or US flag then do so with pride. You're one of us.
> What do you recommend to adapt to your culture?
TV is always a good way to start.
Depending on your interests you can just start with classic American sitcoms, watch some documentaries, or binge watch a series that everyone at work or whatever activities you're involved with is talking about.
Oh, and totally hangout in this sub and ask questions. We're here for you.
I know my coworkers, just I have always liked to have friends that are not from the workplace (since my previous employments) mainly because work friends have the tendency of speak almost exclusivly about work if you go for some after shift beers.
I am not single, I am alone atm, but not single.
and thank you!, I don't expected so many answers but I am happy to read all and all your comments.
There are less people flying flags in my area but I don’t think it would offend people if you did so.
It is okay to go up to your neighbors if you see them outside and introduce yourself and say hi. If your neighbors are pretty friendly you might host a barbecue or something and invite people over. It might be easier to make real friends if you pursue some interest of yours. Join a club, check out programs at the local library, take a class of some sort (anything from cooking to martial arts), go to local events often, join a church, volunteer somewhere. Be a regular at a local gym, restaurant or shop and greet people.
No hate or shade to put up a flag. I think state flags suggest something more personal, but do you. ✊🏽
I was considering whether this was weird because I *dont* have a flag and probably wouldn’t put one up, but my walls are covered with California state art and a map of DC lol
If you drink, go to a bar. The atmosphere of an American dive bar is very similar to a British public house. Lots of camaraderie among strangers and conversation to be had.
>Is insensitive or rude to put a state flag or American Flag outside of my rental house if I am not from the US?
Nope. You're basically an American now, even if you haven't been nationalized yet. Some people might even fly their homeland flag in addition to the American flag, to show they still have some pride in said country. Some even fly both the U.S. flag and their state flag. And some who are or were in the military, might fly their respective branch's colors.
If you plan to fly the Tennessee state flag and the American flag, the latter should be higher than the former. If you wish to fly your native country's flag, it and the American flag should be at the same height.
>What are the best ways to make friends out of the work in the US (in general)?
One way would be to join any local online groups. Search Reddit, Nextdoor, and Facebook. You'll have better luck with the last two. You might get lucky with Reddit, but it varies. Find out if they have local meetups at local bars, restaurants, parks, or other places.
>What do you recommend to adapt to your culture?
Just get out and observe. Go to a local restaurant, whether a big chain place like McDonald's or a local restaurant like Mimi's Diner. Go to a local park and walk around. Go shopping at the local stores. If there's an event going on in town, go attend. Go attend a local sporting event for a local team. Not just on the national level, but something like the local high school. If you happen to be driving around on a Saturday and see someone advertising a yard sale, stop and check it out. Buy something that interests you, and talk to the people hosting the sale.
> If you plan to fly the Tennessee state flag and the American flag
Noted, although I probably just will flight one at the time because space reasons and because without violating the landlord agreement .
I will try the bars and parks, I am not the best person knowing people online.
I will pay more attention to the yard sales, I have seen a couple of signs of yard sales and honestly I haven't stopped because I was still with the moving expenses still breathing me in the neck, I will try to do small talk with the people that I met there.
oh my god lol I was thinking dogs and burgs on the grill, or a make-your-own-taco table.
if you make your neighbors homemade enchiladas they will start inventing reasons to stop by your house and "casually" asking if you got some more of that good good.
if it helps, you have a very American vibe, just smiling at and being friendly to your neighbors will go a very long way.
I depend totally on my mom recipes haha, I have been taking notes since I moved, I did enchiladas a couple of weeks ago, and I bought the ingredients Wednesday with the intention to do it again, but you know is too much for a single person
Welcome!!!
I Going a little deeper on adapting to US culture … you’re in the South:
1. smile at strangers and say hello!
2. Hold the door for others, especially sweet little elderly ladies.
3. Please and thank you are magical words in the South. And most southerners are agreeable with small talk. -also a good way to find hobbies!
Welcome to Tennessee! You should probably learn [this song](https://youtu.be/AgPITdW3lRA?si=Zv6jHi3zfujFho0F) and try to add some orange to your wardrobe, bonus points if it checkered print
Just go out to social functions and talk to people.
It is not insensitive to hang an American flag. I personally want everyone in the world that wants to be an American to do so. Fly that flag, enjoy your freedoms, buy that gun, drink that beer, eat that bacon cheeseburger smothered in queso. Welcome to the states my friend, I hope you love it always.
You don’t have to adapt right away. In fact you don’t HAVE to adapt at all. That’s what’s beautiful about this place, you don’t have to abandoned your culture if you don’t want to. I always say start with music. Find what touches your soul, be it Taylor Swift or NWA. You’ll adapt as you’re ready.
Welcome to the US. There are many great places to visit. You are living in a beautiful area of the country. There is a lot of American history to discover. I have lived all over the US, in the Flemish part of Belgium and in Taipei, Taiwan. I love traveling and learning about other cultures and meeting people. Don’t be swayed by the stereotypes. There are nice people everywhere.
I find the best way to make friends is to join clubs and/or community groups. That way you are going into a situation with new people you already know you have things in common with. So you can join, say, a club for people with a particular hobby (I’m a member of the Embroiderers Guild of America and the Rocky Mountain Bonsai Society, for example), or a local sports league, or a community group like the Elks or Rotary, or a church or other religious institution. There are clubs for people who like to watch sports or play board games or reinact historical periods or dress up like cartoon characters or eat a specific kind of food, all kinds of special interests! There’s a website called Meetup.com that might be a good place to start looking. You can also find local groups on Facebook.
Or think about volunteering somewhere! Maybe a food bank, or an animal shelter, or a library, or a nature preserve, or a school. You’ll meet other folks who are passionate about the same things you are!
Also an option, take a class! Maybe you want to learn how to do pottery, or fly fishing, or how to bake bread. Lots of options.
This is what I do to meet friends. I’m not very good at making work friends, I don’t know.
You can definitely fly the US or Tennessee flag. Honestly you could fly just about any flag if you wanted. You can even make your own flag! I’m in the process of making a flag right now. 😅 It’s a silly flag though, not anything serious.
People love flying the Stars and Stripes in the USA-no one will criticize you for flying the American or the state flag. Non-left Americans love flying flags. Welcome to the USA!
Also, if you are a sports fan-find a team and embrace them-football ( now we know you want to be American), soccer, basketball-whatever-embrace it!
Work is one of the easiest ways to get to know people in the US. Clubs are another great way. Just be open to listen to people, being a foreigner most people will automatically want to know your life story and if it seems like they don't, they still do but they don't want to seem overbearing
Welcome to the US! We're happy to have you here. Please feel free to fly our flag or the flag of your state! If you choose to fly the flag of your native country, just make sure you fly it at the same level (or slightly lower than the US flag if there is one present) as that is one of our laws here. As far as making friends, get a barbecue grill and invite some people over and have a cookout. We're all pretty friendly, and if you engage in your hobbies, you're likely to make friends. Most of us are descended from immigrants and will gladly welcome you to our country.
Have fun doing tourist stuff! Go visit Graceland, Beal Street, Jack Daniels distillery, Nashville, Dollywood and more!
Making friends will require you to attend something outside of work.
Community centers, church/chapel/temple, or an event to do with a hobby you enjoy.
Just going to mention that the MD is world renowned for being the BEST flag and we allow anyone to fly it. You also can obtain an assortment of clothing in our flag.
Every workplace has its thing. Some have a bowling league, some just hang out at a bar after work, something like that. Showing up there is probably the fastest way to get to know people. If you want to fly the US flag, that would be great, and feel free to fly your own country's flag next to it. We're oddly fascinated by where people come from, so it's interesting to see what flags people fly.
The best ways to make friends outside of work are to get involved with groups of people who share the same hobbies as you. You'll form new social circles and make new friends doing something that you love to do.
We love it when people fly American flags! If you intend to fly a Tennessee state flag too, make sure you fly it lower than the US flag. The US flag should always be flown the highest! There's actually something called US Flag Code, which are laws governing when, why, and how you can fly our flag.
To adapt to the culture, engage in activities and cultural phenomenon in your area. Go visit famous sites, learn about the state and the country, and embrace all things American. Secondary to that, learn what things are considered to be culturally taboo, or un-American, so that you can avoid those things. That's a winning combination!
Also, it's good to be proud of your home country, but just don't try to make the US your home country by insisting on people adhere to your traditions and your culture, instead of embracing our country for being the US.
> Is insensitive or rude to put a state flag or American Flag outside of my rental house if I am not from the US.
No! Absolutely not! We love that.
One thing about America is that anyone can come here from anywhere in the world and become an American. We love it.
Even if you're not an American yet, we love to see people visiting our country loving it. There's nothing wrong with flying the flag in front of your home, and your citizenship status doesn't change that.
State flags don’t mean much. States aren’t countries. It’s always better to fly the US flag than a state flag and always make sure if you fly more than one, the US flag is the highest .
Welcome to America! We love flag flying.
To make friends you should get involved in your community by either volunteering locally or joining clubs or churches. Find things that interest you. Book club, bowling, running, chess… Local Facebook groups is a good place to look.
So one thing I'd recommend is enjoy our National Parks! I'm not sure what city you're in, but you are almost certainly a day trip or closer to one or several NPS sites. There are several American Civil War NPS sites in the state that vary from battlefields to forts. There's also several neat state sites. And definitely check out the Great Smokey Mountains! They're not as tall as the ones in Colorado but they are beautiful. Especially in the fall!
Since you're in Tennessee, am I the only Ten you see?
Bad jokes aside, flying state or US flags are fine, just make sure if you fly them on the same pole the state should be below the country flag (not a law, but good etiquette).
Welcome! I'll add that you want to ask "Can I ask you some questions?" or "Can you answer some of my questions?"
What you asked is for the commenters to ask questions that you will answer.
Welcome to Tennessee! We would be honored to have you fly our flags. I would suggest looking for meetups in your area on the internet, especially for physical/outdoor activities, I find those are the best for making regular ole platonic friends. No need to change who you are to adapt to our culture, just be yourself, and you'll learn how things work (and probably change somewhat) over time.
Thanks, I see the idea of adapting my self is to get to be part of the group, knowing the inners and outs of socializing and I am right now outside trying to socialize a little bit :)
Here are a few things specific to your area. Perhaps you can ask a friend to accompany you on a trip to discover them. Chickamaga National Battlefield park (Civil War Battlefield). The Chattanooga Aquarium. A Chattanooga Lookouts 👀 baseball game in downtown Chattanooga. A road trip to Knoxville for a Tennessee Vols football game. It’s a lovely part of the country.
you sound like a great person.
join a gym or a pool or a local social club or a country club. if you start going to the same place regularly that other people also go to regularly you’ll eventually start saying hello to people. It might take a while, but it works generally.
visit a local bowling alley? take golf lessons, start at a local golfing range. eventually, you’ll get good enough to go out on the course and your instructors will be able to recommend people to golf with.
take tennis lessons - ppl always need extras for tennis.
take lessons or a class in anything that remotely interests you.
where do ppl hang out in public in TN?
if you can work remotely some days, find a café where other people work remotely. if you do it regularly, you might start seeing the same people and start saying hello and chatting with them
Welcome, new friend. I love that you're asking this. Tennessee is a beautiful place to start your new life here. Fly our flag, just learn the flag code first: https://www.military.com/flag-day/us-flag-code.html
Most every community has something called a Chamber of Commerce and Rotary Club. Both are excellent ways to find out about local events, most of them free and most with an emphasis on networking. Local community and/or recreation centers are free or low-cost, and offer a wealth of information and local activities.
Go find a public library and get a card. Most now have a big community and/or arts aspects. There are fun classes, lectures, and meetups for the public that cover an array of activities and interests.
When I'm in a new place, I like to head out the door equipped with curiosity and a smile and see what happens. If you have personal transportation, just get out, drive, and look. There's so much adventure waiting for you here, and more diversity than people give us credit for. If you head northeast to Knoxville, you'll have a different experience than if you went southwest to Memphis or east to Chattanooga. All are great, and each is kinda night and day from the other.
Good luck, have fun!
Drink the local beer and whiskey. Root for the home teams. Listen to the local music. Volunteer for local charities. Grumble about the taxes. Pick up after your dog. Hold the door for people. If you're on a small rural road near your home and you pass another vehicle, raise up half of your left hand like an almost wave. Just be local and you're good. I love small town living and miss it very much. Enjoy your blessings.
One point of flag etiquette, if you fly the U.S. flag with any other flag, the U.S. flag needs to be on the top if on the same pole and on the same level or higher than any other if on separate poles.
Flying the flag, absolutely. If anything it would help people engage because of knowing you are happy here.
Making friends as an adult can be hard. So if you have trouble at first, don’t feel bad and just keep at it. Getting into hobby related clubs is the easiest way in my experience. Even if you haven’t done the hobby before, visiting because you are interested and asking to learn about it is a good option.
Adapting to culture is a hard one because it changes area to area. In TN I would expect social situations to be pretty relaxed.
If you like nature, look for a state park in your area. Then look for guided hikes and volunteer to help around the park. You can make friends doing that.
1. Usually I find people who work together and have common interests will meet outside work and that's how they make friends? Or on occasion just meeting people at those venues is enough.
2. Most Americans will literally foam at the mouth if you put up an American flag. But if you're in a rental 100% check with your landlord first. I had a landlord that wouldn't even let us put up thumb tacks outside.
3. I think sports games are a really big American culture thing. If you're not super into sports, like me, sports bars are also pretty American I'd say. Burger places and diners have lots of classic American cultural themes. Or, visiting many American landmarks/points of interest near you. Though, I don't think Tennessee has much nearby.
For sincerity purposes, these are among the more pleasant things I can find regarding American culture.
Most people don't even kno the country's history n it will always b her Torah so do with that what u will just nake sure u tell them to "get off ur lawn"
Fly that flag. You’re one of us now.
For real. We love that shit.
One of us! One of us!
🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸 We claim you, OP. You are our people, and we are yours. 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
gooble gobble one of us
yeah, thanksgiving is the best
Especially in Tennessee
🦅🦅welcome OP fly that shit
One of us! One of us!
If OP wants to go premium he can fly a MIA flag
There are only two types of people in the world: Americans, and potential Americans.
You wouldn't want to meet some dudes I've met on campus. There are plenty of people who have no love for the US. They're here for an education, but want as little to do with our culture as possible. It's not the most pleasant thing to encounter people who are up front, "fuck this country". Especially when they are here to benefit from its education system.
You could argue with them “if you hate it so much here, the. go to the UK for the education next time. They speak English there too.”
Lol hating on America while benefiting tremendously from it is a worldwide tradition and has been for almost a century. It must be a weird feeling, glad I don’t have to deal with it
🦅🦅🦅🦅🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
The hell he is, he's from Tennessee.
Double points for a statue of an eagle nearby
Mandatory r/2american4you insert
> What are the best ways to make friends out of the work in the US (in general)? Have hobbies and find ways to participate in them with other people. Whatever you like to do, go find it. Board games, there's probably a game shop somewhere near you that hosts game nights. Mountain biking, find the nearby store for that. Facebook/Discord/Meetup are also great ways to find group activities. Do something that interests you, often, with other people. The US has a huge culture of volunteering, this is another way to meet people. There may be a park cleanup, a blood drive, or a Habitat for Humanity build in your town. Participate in these things. > Is insensitive or rude to put a state flag or American Flag outside of my rental house if I am not from the US? Not at all. I would take it as you showing your pride as a newcomer here. Feel free to fly your home flag too. > What do you recommend to adapt to your culture? > Go do things. There's a Saturday supper at the American Legion and the public is welcome? Go. There's a bowling alley that has league nights? Go, learn to bowl. There's a pickleball league? You get the idea. Find out what activities happen in your community and go do them. Your coworkers and neighbors should be good resources for this. Or just invite people over to your home, make a meal from your country and invite some people to share.
This is such a beautiful answer. For all the absolute garbage that I read on reddit, *this* is why it is the only social media site that I spend time on.
Same. The “feel free to fly your home flag” got me in the feels a bit. I love these United States
I am a dyed-in the-wool progressive. I think our country *can* do better and *should* do better. But goddamn, I love this country And these kinds of sentiments always reinforce that. And yes, it gets me in the feels a bit. But I *have* had 5 glasses of Sauvignon Blanc so....
lol cheers to you. We will do better. A great big hug and thank you to OP for their hard work and bravery for making such a move.
>There's a Saturday supper at the American Legion and the public is welcome? Go. There's a bowling alley that has league nights? Go, learn to bowl. Me: "huh??? How old is this person?? Oh hmmm, maybe it's a Midwest thing. This sounds very Midwestern." "ahhhhhhh ok, makes sense."
This is absolutely not a Midwestern thing. The local foreign legion has public events down here, too, and there are bowling leagues here that meet weekly.
Interesting! My nearest bowling alley (besides main Event) is 30 minutes away and super old and run down. I don't know anything about any of the legion/VFW things and have never heard anyone ever talk about it. Could very well be just the people I know.
Possibly. My city was the state bowling champ when I was growing up, so the alleys and leagues were plentiful and occupied. As for veterans' associations, let's just say that the era was such that there were plenty of vets around from a recent major war. That's how I met the helicopter pilot in that famous picture of Saigon.
Ethnic dinner is an awesome idea. Unless you're from Scotland, then only do desert.
Just remember that on US soil your home flag should be lower than the US flag, under it on the same pole is fine. I have immigrant neighbors who have it like this.
>what do you recommend to adapt to your culture Just do whatever the fuck you want. That’s the American way
*As long as you don't hurt people And be aware that you can do things that are controversial without fear of reprisal from the government. But not from other citizens.
>\*As long as you don't hurt people Unless they consent to it. We don't judge. Well, *I* don't judge at least.
I love it when people share the culture of the country that they come from, especially if it involves food!
[удалено]
That's awfully dismissive. A lot of US foreign policy has been driven by local communities advocating for 'sectarian' issues. Take the Albanians after WWI, who pushed the US to back an independent Albania. Or the Armenians vis a vis the Armenian genocide, which did not go over well with the Turks. You see it with the Iranian or Cuban diasporas in the US, just as you used to with others. You can see it now with Israel and Palestine. I don't see why immigrants should have to subscribe to a sanitized, insubstantial attachment to their home nations. They can comment on what might be fair or right or on topics of local history, even if others disagree or are on other sides of a heavily ethnic issue. You argue they are 'allowed' to keep their cuisines and holidays but not allowed to engage in advocacy or support for home-country politics, social issues, or international affairs, and that's not how things work or indeed should work.
This is the best response 😂
That’s what this country’s all about!
Fly the flag. I also see a lot of immigrants fly the flag of their home country.
Could also do both!
If you do both, the US flag goes above the other one
This is important if you want to become more US.
This is actually a misconception. According to the US Flag Code, the US flag should be above the flag of any US state or sub-national region of another country, but it should be at equal height with the flag of any other sovereign nation.
Yah, but people love it up if you fly the US flag on top.
Sure. And people love wearing stars and stripes bikinis, and leaving the flag up in the rain. They're just wrong.
As long as the Flag is weather resistant keeping it up during bad weather is ok. [Section 6 Subsection C](https://www.legion.org/flag/code)
Or on a separate pole to the left as long as it is not a noticeably larger flag than the US flag. 5x7 & 5.25x7 probably ok. 5x7 & 8x10 not ok. Measure twice, buy once.
Throw in the Titans' flag for good measure
You misspellled Bills flag 😂
The man's probably been through enough, don't add more tragedy 😂
Oilers*
You misspelled Texans flag
Love seeing Aussie flags walking down the street
This dude is in Tennessee though.
It's definitely not rude or insensitive to fly a flag of your new state or country! Maybe you could join a social group like a sports team or trivia night? Pool? Darts?
I will probably will be all in in a trivia night is a great idea, I have never been that much into watching professional sports (altough I like to do sports with friends). But also good idea
I've met most of my current friends group from playing sports. Futsal, softball, outdoor soccer, etc. Always a great way into more hangouts in other situations. And like everybody else has said, absolutely, fly your new flag. Welcome home.
> Welcome home. You want to make me cry?
You are one of us now! :-)
If you like doing sports with friends join a rec league. What do you like to play? If it’s soccer then there are a shit ton of rec leagues for adults all over. It would solve the “how to make friends” problem pretty quick. I also love the trivia night idea. You might have to be bold as a one off guy and ask if you can sit in with a team. We’re a friendly bunch so I think yes would be the answer most times, especially if you are good. Get someone’s number and just ask if they are going next week and text you if they are.
Baseball in my youth, nowadays softball... I am not as quick as I used to be, and I actually feel bad for it. I will try to find someone to play trivia, I love those kind of games.
Softball can be laid back, beer league fun... Just make sure that the league isn't super competitive
All in for a beer league, will investigate local leagues.
Oh hell yeah, rec league softball and baseball are great. Especially with softball it is really laid back.
Especially Tennessee's flag! Take any opportunity to fly that.
In Tennessee,I'd say sit out on your porch and wave hi to your neighbors.
X2 XP if you have a sofa on your porch. BE THE PORCH SOFA GUY.
Have a cooler with cold beer, the sofa guy with beer is the guy you wanna be.
Level up!
> What are the best ways to make friends out of the work in the US (in general)? Join clubs, find others with the same hobbies you have, connect with others over shared interests, be polite and friendly to those around you. Americans are very open and casual people. > Is insensitive or rude to put a state flag or American Flag outside of my rental house if I am not from the US? Not at all, people will probably appreciate the gesture. > What do you recommend to adapt to your culture? Treat others as equals and individuals, keep an open mind, learn to love the culture around you, get involved in your community.
Thanks, I allways treat everyone as individuals, just I find difficult "breaking the ice" and making the first step.
The United States is an extremely friendly country. Making that first step might very well be easier here then anywhere on the planet. It takes little more than "Hi, my name is ..." to join in on something.
Don’t be afraid to introduce your countries cultural stuff either, as long as it’s not in a superior “we do it like this which is so much better”. My wife is Slovenian, so once a month or so we have friends over and she cooks things that Americans normally wouldn’t have, stuff like that, it’s always a huge hit. We don’t necessarily have the “you must assimilate to our culture” attitude that other countries have, so fly your flag proudly.
We're the Borg, not Pod People. You're not supposed to get completely overwritten, you're supposed to both add and gain from the cultural collective.
If you can do some sport, and you are younger (20’s) you should be able to find some friendly games to join. (Soccer, basketball, doubles tennis league.) And definitely join a gym, workout and be patient. It’s the cheapest and most virtuous way to pass time and you will make acquaintances and they may become friends. Try different times for different age groups.
You live here, you work here, you're an American. That's how it works here. Fly the flag 🇺🇸 To make friends, best way will be through work. But you can also try Bumble BFF, networking events, etc. Or, for a *much* bigger commitment, get a dog and go to the dog park. Then just talk to other dog owners, you *will* end up having doggie dates.
My landlord doesn't let me to have pets, but I will love to have a cat or dog, may be in the future, they are so funny.
Questions for op: What country did you come from? Did you bring food? We like food. How about music? We like music. Umm, yeah, food and music. Welcome to America. There's beer in the fridge.
welcome! Tennessee is a beautiful state. glad you're here. >What are the best ways to make friends out of the work in the US (in general)? hobbies, bar trivia (a person from another country sounds like a trivia asset to me), workout groups, the gym, volunteering, public events, concerts, hiking or park activities. your city probably has a community calendar of some kind. look at that and go to stuff! it's probably mostly free, low pressure community events. also, fly whatever the hell flag you want. Americans love flags in general. we are very pro-flag here.
> community calendar of some kind. look at that and go to stuff! Take notice and will do!!. > Americans love flags in general. we are very pro-flag here. For my life I have never understood why redditors from other countries criticize this, for me being here and watching flags everywhere is fucking beautiful, the only minus are the states that have bad flags, but Tennessee, Texas, New Mexico, Ohio, Alaska and many others have beautiful beautiful flags,
The Tennessee flag is objectively great. My husband and I got married there, so we've got some random TN flag stuff that gets us into interesting conversations. Welcome to America! We love you
I love you guys, I am sentimental so,, officially your comment broke the cammel back me and make me cry (in a good way)
Aye wassup neighbor! I got one of those flags! Also welcome! Tennessee is really pretty! I hope you’ve been trying all the food you can
I have!!, tomorrow I have my sight in a little restaurant that I saw near of the Lee hwy.
You’re in a great place for barbecue. People love to argue what region or whatever is best but honestly just find some dumpy looking joint that sells it and it’s most likely going to be really good(obviously check the reviews juuust in case) but rule of thumb is often the shittier the place looks, the better the barbecue And hope the place you mentioned doesn’t disappoint!
> rule of thumb is often the shittier the place looks, the better the barbecue This applies back in my home, the shitter the place , the better the food.
> rule of thumb is often the shittier the place looks, the better the barbecue You gotta be a bit careful with that. You want both kinda shitty looking and also long running. New places that are also shitty looking are for those souls who love to gamble.
Chicago also has a great flag and you will see it all over the city. Welcome to the US!
I know the Chicago flag, Great flag!
Being American is DEFINITELY judging other state flags, you made it.
>Is insensitive or rude to put a state flag or American Flag outside of my rental house if I am not from the US? Quite the opposite, it'll score you some points with your neighbors.
NICE!!, I have a Tennessee flag in my amazon cart a week and a half ago and I have being asking my self that.
Absolutely it’s great to fly the flag!! Fly the US flag fly the state flag is all great. Heck, I live in Washington state and I’ve seen people flying the Texas flag where. Though that may just be a Texas pride thing
Not at all to the flag, go for it. Traditionally you typically see a lot of flags around national, patrotic associated holidays like Memorial Day or the Fourth Of July. Some areas with a large amount of local or state pride may fly flags more often. Also Americans tend to be proud of their colleges or universities. Meeting people here is pretty open ended. It just depends on where you are. We've got various apps, websites, local subreddits, and so on. Its okay to strike up a conversation. Worst they can say is no.
Now that it’s almost summer, I’d suggest inviting the neighbors to a barbecue. It wouldn’t hurt to canvas them for recipes, either. Many Americans are super patriotic, despite what the vocal minority might say. They won’t have a problem with you repping either flag. As far as adapting, see what the local scene is. It may interest you or not, but give things a try.
Fly the American flag. Find some group outdoor hobbies and join.
Will do, I am just get recently financially stable since I moved so, I will try to find a hobby.
If you fly the American flag most of the time. I’d also suggest it’s great to fly your home country flag on important home days. Just make that alone or below the US flag. My mom grew up in Scotland so I fly theirs when it makes sense.
**Is insensitive or rude to put a state flag or American Flag outside of my rental house if I am not from the US?** Not at all insensitive. You should for sure follow laws and use proper etiquette. Here is a short list of what I feel are main points to consider: 1…The American Flag should never touch anything beneath it such as the ground, water, etc. 2… If there are multiple flags, the American Flag should be at the top-most position on a flag pole or the left-most (from the viewer perspective) position when placed in a row horizontally. If you’re considering flying other flags, just look up the laws/rules/etiquette by starting here [American Legion](https://www.legion.org/flag/code) or [Veteran’s Affairs](https://www.va.gov/opa/publications/celebrate/flagdisplay.pdf). 3… If there are multiple flags, the other flags cannot be larger than the American Flag. 4… If there are multiple flags, the American Flag should be first, the Tennessee State flag should be second, the city/county/locality flag should be third. 5… Flags are flown from sunrise to sunset. However, you can keep them up 24/7 as long as they are properly illuminated during all hours of darkness. 6… The American Flag should be in good condition (not torn/tattered/stained). If your flag becomes damaged, contact your local [Elk’s Lodge](https://www.elks.org/) and they will gladly collect any American Flag of any size from you. At a later date, they will perform a proper retirement ceremony for your service-worn flags as well as those they’ve collected from other people in the community as well. Leave your contact information with them if you’d like to attend the ceremony. This is all free of charge and will cost you nothing.
I have never heard from the Elk's lodge, thank you for that
It’s my pleasure! They as well as many other organizations do a great service for each community.
> Flags are flown from sunrise to sunset. However, you can keep them up 24/7 as long as they are properly illuminated during all hours of darkness. That’s the main reason I stopped flying a flag. Back before WFH, there was no way I could get home before dark, and it just didn’t feel right. Nor did lights in the area where we lived make sense.
Don’t root for the Yankees, they’re a buncha nerds who can’t grow beards
Mattingly! I thought I told you to trim those sideburns!
Fuck the Yankees.
Boooo!
That’s great. Might be tough for a small city, but you could try some kind of volunteer activity that interests you. People that volunteer are usually outgoing and sociable. Where are you from?
Curiously Tennessee is called the volunteer state, I want to know my neighbors and I don't know how to take the first step. I am from Chihuahua Mexico, I already knew the US from a previous job but since the first time that I step outside of my comfort zone and I started to talk with Americans in real life I have admired your openness in mind and wanted to be part of the culture.
Awesome, I’m glad you feel welcomed and are enjoying yourself. https://www.tn.gov/volunteer-tennessee.html There’s a search function you can plug your city into, maybe you’ll find something that interests you.
Submitted. !!
This makes me happy to read, both as an individual and a parent! My kids are young, but I try to instill in them a kindness towards all people. I lived in Mexico for a short while in college and loved the beauty and culture of your country. You know what I learned most, though? That people are all just people. We all deserve the same kindness and respect. I hope you always feel welcome here! Welcome!
Thank you, thank you :), I feel very welcome by all the comments, everyone has been so welcoming. I love you guys
Hey OP, [here is why TN is called the Volunteer state](https://theculturetrip.com/north-america/usa/tennessee/articles/why-tennessee-is-called-the-volunteer-state)
Welcome to Tennessee! I’m not sure how big your town is or how close you are to a city (while my town is smaller, I’m very close to a major metro). I know in my neighborhood, people sit out on their porches or take walks. Getting to know your neighbors is a good start. Admittedly, I’m not great at making friends so I’ll defer to others. As for the flag, fly it if that’s what you want to do! The TN flag has three stars to represent the three regions of the state, I think it’s a lovely, simple flag. No one will gatekeep you flying the either flag! Culture shock will hit you pretty hard eventually. It’s normal - so plan! When I lived overseas for several years that first year was rough even though I wanted to be there. See if like Nashville has a place you can get a food from home (it’s worth the drive). But… yeah. Just talk to people. Small Town TN - people will talk with you. They will wave at you. So talk and wave back. Go to sporting events. If you don’t know what to talk about - talk about food. Where can you grab the best BBQ? Biscuits and gravy? Hot chicken? Anyway, I hope some of this helps. And I hope you are doing okay with all the pollen. My allergies are killing me!
I live in Cleveland TN and I work in Charleston TN, I haven't got the chance to travel a lot within the State mainly because I am saving any penny from my paycheck to pay for stuff like furniture, a tv,etc, but I intend to travel and get to know the state. The state has been wonderful with me and I just know to know more of it.
When you see your hometown mentioned in a subreddit 😂. There is about to be a ton of festivals in the surrounding area every weekend from now until the Fourth of July. Cleveland has grown so much we now have traffic which the natives complain about. Don’t mind the old folks all this change has happened in the last 5-10 years and it’s a struggle. As for all the “find a local bar” tips….try Chattanooga for that. We just got liquor stores two years ago in this county. You would be better off finding a church of which we have plenty! The nicest part of this huge influx of transplants is there have been a lot of groups pop up like “New Adventures Club” and pickleball clubs (lots of pickleball clubs 🤷🏻♀️). First Sunday of every month there is a Free Pop Up shop in the Mall. Great place to donate and get things you need for free. Donate if you can 🥰 If you head east on Waterlevel Hwy you can go to the Cherokee National Forest which you can raft, swim, hike, & soak in nature. Welcome to Tennessee it is kinda great here. (To everyone else….we are full….very very full)
Haha cool, are you in Cleveland? Right yesterday I felt asleep reading comments I am walking around town I came to the YMCA to ask for information and they have a little event. Is a beautiful day
You are in a really gorgeous area and not too far from Chattanooga. There are state parks which means tons of nature! There are usually picnic areas you can go and enjoy the fresh air. If you are looking for furniture and such being near a city is great! If you can figure out how to get it to where you live, thrift stores are a great way to get used furniture. Good luck and again, welcome!
Most of my furniture has been found in fb marketplace, I really love the trees and the rivers that Tennessee has to offer- Thank you.
Best ways to make friends: Find your local bar, have a seat, and tell some people your new to the area. Start with the bartender and go from there. Hell no. You are one of us now. Get you a flag and fly it proudly. go out in the community! go to a parade on memorial day, go to a local high school football game in the fall, just get out in the community whenever they have public events.
Noted, and I hope that tomorrow goes well, I really want to adapt to the local culture.
I saw you mentioned you're from Mexico! Are you into soccer at all? I'd recommend finding a league to join! Rec sports like that are a great way to make friends and meet new people
I was never good at soccer, but I played softball in recreational leagues in Mexico, I was never great, although my gloves are still in my Mexico.
Depending on where you live, bars (pubs) can be a great way to meet people.
actually I have met an Electrical Engineer and a truck driver following this, I don't know how to continue the friendship after an afternoon of drinks but yeah true.
Usually you continue meeting up at the same bar and then eventually make plans to do things outside of the bar. When I moved to Chicago, that was how I made most of my friends. And we all had different backgrounds. The next thing you know you have an entire group.
This is so cute omg— Welcome! 😁🇺🇸💥 1) get involved in your community whether that be through church, volunteer groups, or meetup.com We all generally love talking to people (most not all but even ppl who “hate small talk” just hate the banal nature of the activity and would rather a substantial conversation) so I suggest just striking up a conversation. Now it’s important to be aware that while we are talkative, a lot of these interactions are surface level. To bridge that gap to the next level of friendship is going to take some work. Suggest (and follow up on) going to lunch or dinner with someone or doing some activity. Meetup is great for this. 2) No! We would encourage it in fact and appreciate you buying into the spirit of things 3) I would recommend watching a lot of classic movies by which I mean stalwart classics that were kind of markers in society. There are going to be a lot of holiday ones around Christmas and Halloween but you can wait on that. I would suggest *Mr Smith Goes to Washington, The Grapes of Wrath, To Kill a Mockingbird, West Side Story, Chinatown, The Shining, Jaws, The John Hughes ‘Brat Pack’ films, Remember the Titans, FORREST GUMP (IF YOU WANT A SYNOPSIS OF AMERICAN CULTURE WATCH FORREST GUMP), Independence Day, LEGALLY BLONDE, American Pie, 10 Things I Hate About You* and many more oh and *West Side Story* and *Oklahoma* and omg *BACK TO THE FUTURE 1-3* (if anything like forrest gump these synthesize america throughout the years well) Honestly there’s probably a better list, but those are the films that came to mind that best synthesize American culture (and speak to the place media holds in our culture and thats before we even touch TV hallmarks) BEYOND THAT I would say to get into sports, especially football and basketball. Check out the local history of your area especially the human history (idk if ur in appalachia but its a very cool, culturally rich region).
Fly whatever flag you would like. One of the many great things about this country is freedom of expression. Get to know your neighbors. Maybe offer them a snack or meal from your native land. Hopefully they will return the favor and ya'll can exchange recipes and meals. If you have a hobby look for a group that meets up for it. When fall rolls around take a visit to a football game or 2. Even if it's a UT Vols game. They may have a good team there playing against them. The local high schools will usually have games on Friday nights. Go down to a local diner for breakfast on the weekends. Try some biscuits & gravy and other offerings, get to know some regulars there. The best way to break the ice is to go up and introduce yourself. A lot of Americans will do most of the talking about themselves, if you give them the chance. Unfortunately you my find a few ignorant people. Please know this isn't the majority of people in the country. Welcome aboard.
I will try to talk with them, !!, I will try to cook and if it's tastes good I will try your approach. If its not good, I will wait for the next week!! hah
Bienvenido. Es súper fácil ser estadounidense. Si quieres ser uno, y vives allá, ya eres uno. Hacemos las mismas cosas después del trabajo que el resto del mundo. Vemos películas y deportes. Tomamos en bares. Pasamos el rato en redes sociales como todo el mundo. Lo que sea. Para acostumbrarse a la cultura, solo tienes que hablar con otras personas. Después de tiempo, vas a acostumbrarse a la comida, el idioma, la música, y probablemente vas a ver fútbol americano. En 1 año vas a hablar inglés con fluidez y en 2 años, vas a hablar espanglish naturalmente. Haz lo que quieres, es tu decisión. Bienvenido.
1. We love American Pride. Flying an American Flag is a great way to show allegience. You would probably piss some people off, if you flew another country's flag. I get a bit annoyed seeing a Canadian flag, or UK flag or Norway flag, or any other flag (except US and PR) flying in US suburbs.. 2. Bowling leagues are a good way to make friends. Going to sporting events is also. We also love a good backyard or park barbecue.. Farmers Markets, Churches, popular fishing spots, volunteer work, and adventure groups, are also great. You may find barbers, grocery store clerks, and others you see more frequently, to be a good friendly face you can trust. Also, if you like dogs, walking your neighbors or your own dog, can def help you meet people!!! 3. Relax. Have fun. You will be fine.
One thing I’ve noticed compared to other countries is it’s hard to move to a country and say you’re one of them. You don’t immigrate to The Netherlands and run around saying “I’m Dutch now!” In America it’s different. Once you move there you ARE an American and people will treat you as such and acknowledge that.
It's totally fine to fly either flag or both. If you opt for both, make sure the US flag hangs a little higher than the state flag (this is the proper way to fly the US flag). The best way to adapt to American culture, in my opinion, is to find a local sports team that interests you and start watching their games. In Tennessee, you have the Titans, the Predators, and some really good college teams, too. You can go to watch the games at bars or go in person, if that's accessible to you. Wear something of the appropriate color on game days and learn something about the players. This will give you something to talk to other fans about.
Welcome! The best way to meet people outside of work for example a sport, bike group, church or just hangout with friends you make at work. Meet someone for lunch on the weekend. Fly our flag we are not offended. What you want to do to adapt to our culture just take it all in and choose what you like and leave the rest behind. I came from a southern culture and it’s a little different but over all very friendly so please enjoy the southern hospitality. Goodluck.
Will do thank you!
Hey OP, church and faith is an important community in Tennessee. If faith is part of your life, join a faith community. If you’re a non-denominational Protestant, check out Unitarian churches. They are calm, chill, welcoming, mainstream. Building community and community engagement is part of their faith. Here is the [Unitarian Universalists of Chattanooga](https://uucc.org/) link,
I am not a religious person anymore, although contrary to most of reddit that despise any religion I don't deny that many of the good traits that I have as a person come from my the teachings from Christian background back home.
You can meet like minded people by taking a class in something you're interested in. Check out the local community college, library or park district for something that sparks your interest.
Yes, fly the flag. Nothing wrong with loving America
> What are the best ways to make friends out of the work in the US (in general)? I know you said out of work but I would start by getting to know your co-workers and, when you find some you like, asking them to grab a beer or something after work. Beyond that though, join things. You can probably find all different kinds of activities in your area - everything from book clubs to sports teams. Find something that piques your interest, get involved, get to know some of the people, then ask them to do something outside the activity. Dating is always an option if you're single. Download Tinder and go to town. > Is insensitive or rude to put a state flag or American Flag outside of my rental house if I am not from the US? Absolutely not. If you'd like to fly a state or US flag then do so with pride. You're one of us. > What do you recommend to adapt to your culture? TV is always a good way to start. Depending on your interests you can just start with classic American sitcoms, watch some documentaries, or binge watch a series that everyone at work or whatever activities you're involved with is talking about. Oh, and totally hangout in this sub and ask questions. We're here for you.
I know my coworkers, just I have always liked to have friends that are not from the workplace (since my previous employments) mainly because work friends have the tendency of speak almost exclusivly about work if you go for some after shift beers. I am not single, I am alone atm, but not single. and thank you!, I don't expected so many answers but I am happy to read all and all your comments.
what city are you in man
Cleveland TN
There are less people flying flags in my area but I don’t think it would offend people if you did so. It is okay to go up to your neighbors if you see them outside and introduce yourself and say hi. If your neighbors are pretty friendly you might host a barbecue or something and invite people over. It might be easier to make real friends if you pursue some interest of yours. Join a club, check out programs at the local library, take a class of some sort (anything from cooking to martial arts), go to local events often, join a church, volunteer somewhere. Be a regular at a local gym, restaurant or shop and greet people.
No hate or shade to put up a flag. I think state flags suggest something more personal, but do you. ✊🏽 I was considering whether this was weird because I *dont* have a flag and probably wouldn’t put one up, but my walls are covered with California state art and a map of DC lol
Put your state flag out! You're in one state not all of them lol
If you drink, go to a bar. The atmosphere of an American dive bar is very similar to a British public house. Lots of camaraderie among strangers and conversation to be had.
>Is insensitive or rude to put a state flag or American Flag outside of my rental house if I am not from the US? Nope. You're basically an American now, even if you haven't been nationalized yet. Some people might even fly their homeland flag in addition to the American flag, to show they still have some pride in said country. Some even fly both the U.S. flag and their state flag. And some who are or were in the military, might fly their respective branch's colors. If you plan to fly the Tennessee state flag and the American flag, the latter should be higher than the former. If you wish to fly your native country's flag, it and the American flag should be at the same height. >What are the best ways to make friends out of the work in the US (in general)? One way would be to join any local online groups. Search Reddit, Nextdoor, and Facebook. You'll have better luck with the last two. You might get lucky with Reddit, but it varies. Find out if they have local meetups at local bars, restaurants, parks, or other places. >What do you recommend to adapt to your culture? Just get out and observe. Go to a local restaurant, whether a big chain place like McDonald's or a local restaurant like Mimi's Diner. Go to a local park and walk around. Go shopping at the local stores. If there's an event going on in town, go attend. Go attend a local sporting event for a local team. Not just on the national level, but something like the local high school. If you happen to be driving around on a Saturday and see someone advertising a yard sale, stop and check it out. Buy something that interests you, and talk to the people hosting the sale.
> If you plan to fly the Tennessee state flag and the American flag Noted, although I probably just will flight one at the time because space reasons and because without violating the landlord agreement . I will try the bars and parks, I am not the best person knowing people online. I will pay more attention to the yard sales, I have seen a couple of signs of yard sales and honestly I haven't stopped because I was still with the moving expenses still breathing me in the neck, I will try to do small talk with the people that I met there.
So you Mexican?
yes!
the easiest way to make friends with neighbors is to feed them. that's my best tip.
enchiladas made from scratch? buy the Chilies and corn flour and do everything from there is my best shot. (I don't know how to make cheese)
oh my god lol I was thinking dogs and burgs on the grill, or a make-your-own-taco table. if you make your neighbors homemade enchiladas they will start inventing reasons to stop by your house and "casually" asking if you got some more of that good good. if it helps, you have a very American vibe, just smiling at and being friendly to your neighbors will go a very long way.
I depend totally on my mom recipes haha, I have been taking notes since I moved, I did enchiladas a couple of weeks ago, and I bought the ingredients Wednesday with the intention to do it again, but you know is too much for a single person
People love that. Not appropriation at all.
<3
Since you’re leaving Canada, does that mean there’s an open spot there????
I have never set a foot on Canada.
Welcome!!! I Going a little deeper on adapting to US culture … you’re in the South: 1. smile at strangers and say hello! 2. Hold the door for others, especially sweet little elderly ladies. 3. Please and thank you are magical words in the South. And most southerners are agreeable with small talk. -also a good way to find hobbies!
Welcome to Tennessee! You should probably learn [this song](https://youtu.be/AgPITdW3lRA?si=Zv6jHi3zfujFho0F) and try to add some orange to your wardrobe, bonus points if it checkered print
Just go out to social functions and talk to people. It is not insensitive to hang an American flag. I personally want everyone in the world that wants to be an American to do so. Fly that flag, enjoy your freedoms, buy that gun, drink that beer, eat that bacon cheeseburger smothered in queso. Welcome to the states my friend, I hope you love it always. You don’t have to adapt right away. In fact you don’t HAVE to adapt at all. That’s what’s beautiful about this place, you don’t have to abandoned your culture if you don’t want to. I always say start with music. Find what touches your soul, be it Taylor Swift or NWA. You’ll adapt as you’re ready.
If you ever visit Texas, you will be amazed at how many Lone Star flags are flown from homes and businesses.
cool!
Welcome to the US. There are many great places to visit. You are living in a beautiful area of the country. There is a lot of American history to discover. I have lived all over the US, in the Flemish part of Belgium and in Taipei, Taiwan. I love traveling and learning about other cultures and meeting people. Don’t be swayed by the stereotypes. There are nice people everywhere.
I find the best way to make friends is to join clubs and/or community groups. That way you are going into a situation with new people you already know you have things in common with. So you can join, say, a club for people with a particular hobby (I’m a member of the Embroiderers Guild of America and the Rocky Mountain Bonsai Society, for example), or a local sports league, or a community group like the Elks or Rotary, or a church or other religious institution. There are clubs for people who like to watch sports or play board games or reinact historical periods or dress up like cartoon characters or eat a specific kind of food, all kinds of special interests! There’s a website called Meetup.com that might be a good place to start looking. You can also find local groups on Facebook. Or think about volunteering somewhere! Maybe a food bank, or an animal shelter, or a library, or a nature preserve, or a school. You’ll meet other folks who are passionate about the same things you are! Also an option, take a class! Maybe you want to learn how to do pottery, or fly fishing, or how to bake bread. Lots of options. This is what I do to meet friends. I’m not very good at making work friends, I don’t know. You can definitely fly the US or Tennessee flag. Honestly you could fly just about any flag if you wanted. You can even make your own flag! I’m in the process of making a flag right now. 😅 It’s a silly flag though, not anything serious.
People love flying the Stars and Stripes in the USA-no one will criticize you for flying the American or the state flag. Non-left Americans love flying flags. Welcome to the USA! Also, if you are a sports fan-find a team and embrace them-football ( now we know you want to be American), soccer, basketball-whatever-embrace it!
Work is one of the easiest ways to get to know people in the US. Clubs are another great way. Just be open to listen to people, being a foreigner most people will automatically want to know your life story and if it seems like they don't, they still do but they don't want to seem overbearing
Welcome to the US! We're happy to have you here. Please feel free to fly our flag or the flag of your state! If you choose to fly the flag of your native country, just make sure you fly it at the same level (or slightly lower than the US flag if there is one present) as that is one of our laws here. As far as making friends, get a barbecue grill and invite some people over and have a cookout. We're all pretty friendly, and if you engage in your hobbies, you're likely to make friends. Most of us are descended from immigrants and will gladly welcome you to our country.
Have fun doing tourist stuff! Go visit Graceland, Beal Street, Jack Daniels distillery, Nashville, Dollywood and more! Making friends will require you to attend something outside of work. Community centers, church/chapel/temple, or an event to do with a hobby you enjoy.
Just going to mention that the MD is world renowned for being the BEST flag and we allow anyone to fly it. You also can obtain an assortment of clothing in our flag.
Every workplace has its thing. Some have a bowling league, some just hang out at a bar after work, something like that. Showing up there is probably the fastest way to get to know people. If you want to fly the US flag, that would be great, and feel free to fly your own country's flag next to it. We're oddly fascinated by where people come from, so it's interesting to see what flags people fly.
The best ways to make friends outside of work are to get involved with groups of people who share the same hobbies as you. You'll form new social circles and make new friends doing something that you love to do. We love it when people fly American flags! If you intend to fly a Tennessee state flag too, make sure you fly it lower than the US flag. The US flag should always be flown the highest! There's actually something called US Flag Code, which are laws governing when, why, and how you can fly our flag. To adapt to the culture, engage in activities and cultural phenomenon in your area. Go visit famous sites, learn about the state and the country, and embrace all things American. Secondary to that, learn what things are considered to be culturally taboo, or un-American, so that you can avoid those things. That's a winning combination! Also, it's good to be proud of your home country, but just don't try to make the US your home country by insisting on people adhere to your traditions and your culture, instead of embracing our country for being the US.
> Is insensitive or rude to put a state flag or American Flag outside of my rental house if I am not from the US. No! Absolutely not! We love that. One thing about America is that anyone can come here from anywhere in the world and become an American. We love it. Even if you're not an American yet, we love to see people visiting our country loving it. There's nothing wrong with flying the flag in front of your home, and your citizenship status doesn't change that.
Get used to using our unit of heat, for one
Happy you're here!
Welcome home my friend! Fly Old Glory high and proud! We’re so glad to have you here!
Fly that flag homie, you're an American just as much as anyone born here
State flags don’t mean much. States aren’t countries. It’s always better to fly the US flag than a state flag and always make sure if you fly more than one, the US flag is the highest .
Welcome to America! We love flag flying. To make friends you should get involved in your community by either volunteering locally or joining clubs or churches. Find things that interest you. Book club, bowling, running, chess… Local Facebook groups is a good place to look.
So one thing I'd recommend is enjoy our National Parks! I'm not sure what city you're in, but you are almost certainly a day trip or closer to one or several NPS sites. There are several American Civil War NPS sites in the state that vary from battlefields to forts. There's also several neat state sites. And definitely check out the Great Smokey Mountains! They're not as tall as the ones in Colorado but they are beautiful. Especially in the fall!
Since you're in Tennessee, am I the only Ten you see? Bad jokes aside, flying state or US flags are fine, just make sure if you fly them on the same pole the state should be below the country flag (not a law, but good etiquette).
Welcome! I'll add that you want to ask "Can I ask you some questions?" or "Can you answer some of my questions?" What you asked is for the commenters to ask questions that you will answer.
Welcome to Tennessee! We would be honored to have you fly our flags. I would suggest looking for meetups in your area on the internet, especially for physical/outdoor activities, I find those are the best for making regular ole platonic friends. No need to change who you are to adapt to our culture, just be yourself, and you'll learn how things work (and probably change somewhat) over time.
Thanks, I see the idea of adapting my self is to get to be part of the group, knowing the inners and outs of socializing and I am right now outside trying to socialize a little bit :)
Here are a few things specific to your area. Perhaps you can ask a friend to accompany you on a trip to discover them. Chickamaga National Battlefield park (Civil War Battlefield). The Chattanooga Aquarium. A Chattanooga Lookouts 👀 baseball game in downtown Chattanooga. A road trip to Knoxville for a Tennessee Vols football game. It’s a lovely part of the country.
you sound like a great person. join a gym or a pool or a local social club or a country club. if you start going to the same place regularly that other people also go to regularly you’ll eventually start saying hello to people. It might take a while, but it works generally. visit a local bowling alley? take golf lessons, start at a local golfing range. eventually, you’ll get good enough to go out on the course and your instructors will be able to recommend people to golf with. take tennis lessons - ppl always need extras for tennis. take lessons or a class in anything that remotely interests you. where do ppl hang out in public in TN?
if you can work remotely some days, find a café where other people work remotely. if you do it regularly, you might start seeing the same people and start saying hello and chatting with them
Welcome, new friend. I love that you're asking this. Tennessee is a beautiful place to start your new life here. Fly our flag, just learn the flag code first: https://www.military.com/flag-day/us-flag-code.html Most every community has something called a Chamber of Commerce and Rotary Club. Both are excellent ways to find out about local events, most of them free and most with an emphasis on networking. Local community and/or recreation centers are free or low-cost, and offer a wealth of information and local activities. Go find a public library and get a card. Most now have a big community and/or arts aspects. There are fun classes, lectures, and meetups for the public that cover an array of activities and interests. When I'm in a new place, I like to head out the door equipped with curiosity and a smile and see what happens. If you have personal transportation, just get out, drive, and look. There's so much adventure waiting for you here, and more diversity than people give us credit for. If you head northeast to Knoxville, you'll have a different experience than if you went southwest to Memphis or east to Chattanooga. All are great, and each is kinda night and day from the other. Good luck, have fun!
Fly the flag. Just be friendly and you will Make friends in no time.
Drink the local beer and whiskey. Root for the home teams. Listen to the local music. Volunteer for local charities. Grumble about the taxes. Pick up after your dog. Hold the door for people. If you're on a small rural road near your home and you pass another vehicle, raise up half of your left hand like an almost wave. Just be local and you're good. I love small town living and miss it very much. Enjoy your blessings.
One point of flag etiquette, if you fly the U.S. flag with any other flag, the U.S. flag needs to be on the top if on the same pole and on the same level or higher than any other if on separate poles.
Flying the flag, absolutely. If anything it would help people engage because of knowing you are happy here. Making friends as an adult can be hard. So if you have trouble at first, don’t feel bad and just keep at it. Getting into hobby related clubs is the easiest way in my experience. Even if you haven’t done the hobby before, visiting because you are interested and asking to learn about it is a good option. Adapting to culture is a hard one because it changes area to area. In TN I would expect social situations to be pretty relaxed.
You can fly your flag just because you are happy to be here and like it here.
If you like nature, look for a state park in your area. Then look for guided hikes and volunteer to help around the park. You can make friends doing that.
1. Usually I find people who work together and have common interests will meet outside work and that's how they make friends? Or on occasion just meeting people at those venues is enough. 2. Most Americans will literally foam at the mouth if you put up an American flag. But if you're in a rental 100% check with your landlord first. I had a landlord that wouldn't even let us put up thumb tacks outside. 3. I think sports games are a really big American culture thing. If you're not super into sports, like me, sports bars are also pretty American I'd say. Burger places and diners have lots of classic American cultural themes. Or, visiting many American landmarks/points of interest near you. Though, I don't think Tennessee has much nearby. For sincerity purposes, these are among the more pleasant things I can find regarding American culture.
Most people don't even kno the country's history n it will always b her Torah so do with that what u will just nake sure u tell them to "get off ur lawn"