It’s been said that if my head were not attached to my body, I would lose it. I’ve been known to lose keys, cell phones, earrings (notoriously bad for this one), and once a small child. So, it’s no surprise that I’ve lost my purse here – twice. What is surprising, though, is that both times it’s been returned to me with everything intact; nothing, not even the cash, missing. I’m pretty sure of all the places we’ve traveled to or lived in, Switzerland is the only place this would happen.
The safest country in world?
Throughout the years, Switzerland has been thought to be the safest country in Europe, if not the world. This long-standing accolade has been attributed to various factors, such as the country’s gun laws, mandatory military service for all eligible males, and the country’s maintained neutrality.
However, a report released in 2011 did show crime was on an upward trend in Switzerland. We have noticed more warnings about pickpockets on the trains since we arrived, but with my purse incidents, I would never guess it.
People here are very aware of how safe their country can be. Never before have I seen stands where fresh bread and flowers are left out with a money box. It’s all on the honor system, and you just take what you need while leaving your payment. There is no one standing guard, and it works. I’ve been told that these sort of stands can be found in rural areas in the U.S. (though I grew up in one and don’t recall seeing any), but you find them in more metropolitan areas here as well.
Taking pride
The Swiss are a proud lot, and integrity is up there on the list of priorities. There is a lot of national pride here, with Swiss flags flying high from public spaces and private residences. And, for all that is holy, don’t offend the Swiss by confusing them with Swedish people or the country as part of the European Union.
This pride can also be seen in the famous Swiss organization and cleanliness. People in stores here actually help the staff keep the shop in order. When items are out of place or knocked to the floor, no matter who walks by, the item is picked up and replaced. If a person sees a bit of trash on the ground, he will pick it up and throw it away. The approach seems to be more of a caring about your place as a whole instead of a singular idea about only what is convenient for you.
I can’t help to think that if we all took this attitude how much nicer public spaces and everything else would be all over the world. Instead of thinking “I didn’t drop it; it’s not my responsibility,” what if we all thought “This will help my community; it makes this place better for not only me but everyone to enjoy?”
-Monica
