Hey Ian,

I hesitate too to try and pinpoint differences to culture. I have noticed, though, that although I'm usually a blab mouth, I seem to be more comfortable with silences than others when I'm in America. Again, I can't compare with other places, so I end up saying 'America'. But I have no trouble letting a conversation end naturally and have silence.

When in groups, it's interesting to see who feels the need to start a new conversation first. I've grown up with the thought that when a group conversation dies down, it means a ghost is passing through. So I usually end up fantasizing/wondering what kind of a ghost might be among us...while others might be restlessly trying to come up with something witty to say.

I dunno. Interesting posting.