Cultural Moment

My husband and I had a lively conversation with a lady on Sunday about the economy in Japan vs. the USA. Her husband is employed by the government here, so my husband commented that he had job security. She agreed, but stated that with the economy the way it is, the government is short on money and so there have been cutbacks. My husband asked what kind of cutbacks. They do not heat the offices, because it is too expensive. He is only permitted to have a little space heater at his feet. He is very cold at work. Our high temps were in the 40’s last week. That is cold when there is no heat in the building!!! An English teacher commented recently that the classrooms are not heated. The students bring blankets to class. Try to imagine that in the USA!!!