Thoughts about Germans!

I lived in Germany for about 7 years. I married a German girl and my children were born there. As to how I see the Germans: They are hard headed, very determined, very hard working and intelligent people and if you changed anything about them, they wouldn't be German. I remember what my German Landlord told me many years ago. He said, if your going to be a ditchdigger, just make sure you are the BEST ditchdigger, and nothing less. That is the Germans. A proud people and if they like you, that is good. If not, leave! That was over 40 years ago, but I still miss Germany, and the Germans.

I'm aware there are many who have various perceptions of the Germans (as they have with pretty much any group of people on the planet). I had a great many German friends at university and found them to be no different to myself other than the language of course. In comparison to the other Brits though i found them to be generally more polite and easy going with less anger and malice. Many of my fellow Brits tend to be rather ignorant, horrible tourists and oblivious to other languages and ways of life. A bit like the perception of Mr Bush and his blinkered view of countries which aren't America (hehe). I learned to speak German so i guess that helped my friendship at uni.

I've visited Germany quite a few years ago and enjoyed it immensely. I found the German people to be understanding -- they tolerated my attempts to speak German, lol! They are also very accommodating. I doubt if there is anything that I would change. The Germans are people, just like other nationalities, and have their share of good and bad, just like everyone else. What turns me off is an obnoxious person of ANY nationality.

I think of them as a Robust people. With lots of Vigor! They laugh hard - and have great music.... They are also a strong people and strict/stern but over all just. They are a sturdy people - with a bold physique, square shoulders and square jaws. :) I also think that they are a proud people.