You talk very nicely about our people but you seem to think a big part of our population is religious. Religion here is a personal thing yes. But the fact is that the majority of the population here does not believe in a god. They probably didnt want to hurt your feelings because you do believe in god. We do not dislike people who believe in a god we just don't want to be bothered by someone that tells us how the world works and that we should worship something we don't believe exists. Still I have to give you credit for seeing what dutch people really are like.
What I realy appreciate is the fact that he didnt begin about the drugs.. this is the first video i watched about the netherlands without any words of drugs. and i smiled with you at the last minutes what you said about when we become friends and we will do everything for a friend. Thank You !
One of the most astute analysis of my county I have ever heard a foreigner make. I learned a lot about us Dutch from the look you gave me through your eyes. Going door to door really makes you get to know a people I guess. I met some Americans of your religion that went from door to door. We had a lovely talk about religion and my personal believes. I did not envy them, being a missionary in a country consisting mostly out of atheists must have been pretty hard.
this is such a cool video! I'm dutch and I could really relate to what you meant. We are very practical but once you get to know us or when you start to be our friend we can be the best ones. thank you for this video!
Lol I think I grew up in the wrong country. Ppl I used to go to church with would see me at the gas station or grocery store or wherever and say "hey how are you?" I would look at them and Usually say something like.."terrible" or do you rly care? They looked at me like I was nuts. I also was given the title of most blunt in high school. Dutch people sound awesome! My kinda peeps
***** I'm not entirlely sure but I think that should be "we shall welcome thee with open arms" Thou, oblique/objective: thee, possessive: thy/thine. Very archaic :)
I dislike people bothering me with their religion, but I do like your positive attitude and the respectful way you talk about my country. You're welcome here.
Hi Im dutch, i loved your video. I didnt expect a spiritual video like this.. I thought it was just a video about dutch people, but you touched my heart... Its great how you understand us so sood... Not many people do... Rarely people do. If you come to the netherlands again i would be pleased to have a seat and have a deep talk with you! Thanks for this great video. Im not a christian , im more into buddhism but a god is a god for everyone. Thanks Greets from the netherlands (region Brabant)
You seem like a genuine person, and I respect you for it. Even though (as an atheist and scientist) I have a lot of issues with religious movements, my love goes out to you. This is because we are all humans, after all, and you just want to make the world a better place. All the best from a biracial German living in The Netherlands ;)
I am an agnostic Dutch man, and i have very much enjoyed your video. i saw myself in your description of the Dutch thank you, it was very reflective and fun. you seem like a good and nice person, good luck :)
And about the missionary part: It's mainly that many people dislike it when christians can't accept others having different beliefs, and we all know about the practises from the jehova's witnesses and such. When you ring someone's door and open with "what brings you happiness", people usually see what's coming and will merely ask "why are you asking" out of politeness, more or less.
I respect that you came to our atheist country as a missionairy and just did your thing and got interrested in our culture to get your message across. Good luck in your life. Greetings from Holland!!
Really enjoyed your video! I'm dutch and a christian by the way. I recognized what you said and you are totally right haha! Thanks for sharing! Be blessed!
I really liked your video! The things you said at the end were really nice, thank you :) Your video reminded me of my time in America! Every time when i entered a store someone would say "How are you" and every time I would answer them and ask them how they are doing! After a while I got really confused by everyone asking me how i was doing, so i asked someone why everyone wanted to know how i was doing?! And then i realized how stupid it was to actually answer their question.. But even after I knew I shouldn't answer someone I felt like i was ignoring them! So it was really difficult for me! But I love the country and I've had wonderfull conversations with people, who just told us everything about themselves. After talking to someone for an hour I felt like we've been friends for over a year! Basically what i'm trying to say is; I really like your country! :D thank you for making this video :)
It's so cool to hear the genuine opinion about the Dutch from an American. I actually recognise a lot of the characteristics you described. Your pronunciation of the letter 'G' is on point! It's so much fun to ask people who do not speak Dutch to pronounce things like 'Groningen'. And the thing about us being so down to earth is probably true, I hear it from a lot of people.
wel there is a joke in my region of the netherlands a misunary comes the door and saise i have come to bring the light then i say great!!! i just have a broken one in the kitchen
+Nathanaël Viiperi Ik prefereer 'efficiënt' :P. Maar inderdaad, we zijn niet het makkelijkste volkje om als missionaris in rond te lopen, niet zo heel vreemd dat het in het verleden ook weinig succesvol gebeurd is.
That was a touching story, it seems like you really learned a lot about the people of the Netherlands. For anyone traveling to the Netherlands you can learn a lot from this video. My personal advice would be to always be sincere. If you say something to Dutch people make sure it is true, and be prepared to backup what you say. Also try to be direct, being direct is often taken as a sign of respect and honesty. And finally I would like to dissuade you from coming to the Netherlands if you are looking for converts because you will most likely be very disappointed.
H.R.C. Jansen Dat er groei is sluit niet uit dat mensen teleurgesteld kunnen zijn in de mate van die groei. De jongeman in de video waarschuwt daar ook voor.
Im dutch myself but the walking up to somebody and saying hello only really counts in city's and other busy arreas. But where i live in a small town for example it is actually pretty normal to walk up to somebody and say hello. and btw nice video keep up the good work!
I think that the netherlands arent very religious at all. Noord-Braband and Limburg are the most religious. But when you go to a city where students live/study they probably believe in science anyways :P
Katja Cecil oke, maar dat is gewoon een nederlands iets. ik bedoel hoe vaak ga je langs iemand zonder van tevoren te bellen. (bij mij komt het weinig voor...)
You're 3000% true about our bluntness, even though we might sound rude to foreigners with our extreme honesty, we find it rude if people don't tell us the truth. Honesty is valued here a lot lmao
Greatly enjoying these videos. Love your attitude, and you all seem very well adjusted. Going abroad, learning a new language and meeting people with different perspectives on life is something that every young adult should get to do.
I'm dutch as well, and I think this is a great video. Maybe because we're so down to earth when we ask: 'how's your day' and we really mean it, because we're just asking something in order to wanting to genuinely know the answer. What we say, we mean. And that is practical, that is down to earth❤️
You're spot on about alot of observations on the Dutch. One of the reasons why you find hard times knocking on doors is that there is a christian group called 'Jehova's getuigen' (i believe they are the same as the watchtower group) which sends their followers door to door telling about how people are doomed if they aren't following their specific brand of christianity. Many people have become experienced at turning them away. Also the superficial fakeness that is wielded alot by americans is not so much offensive, it's more annoying than anything else. you know it's over the top exaggerated interest because that person has some motive or wants to sell something. It's one of the things about the american culture that will never lift off here. On the religion part, 2/3 of america thinks religion is an important part in their life whereas about 2/3 of the Netherlands don't think it's important.
this was fun to watch! as a dutchman I am one of the majority who is not religious and often times I have taken offence to missionaries, but this guy comes across as very astute and open-minded.
You should run for president. You are a very good person and the world needs just that right now. Thank you for your wise words in all your videos, I've very much enjoyed them and please don't give up on this world; I won't. Good luck to you and may God be with you.
OMG !!! you are dutch and like kingdom hearts ( by looking at you're pic) !? bro I'm to you have no idea how hard it is to find someone who knows kingdom hearts where I am
That Man First of all, I am always open and honest, so don't tell me I am not, you don't know me. Second, yes there are a lot of people on their cell phones, but that doesn't mean that they won't be friendly when you approach them. And Indeed, William Brons is right, it depends on where in the Netherlands you are. I grew up in a smaller village, so that's different from the big cities. But still, even in the big cities, I know the majority of the people is very open minded, very friendly and helpful. Lastly, I don't think the bs comment is very nice. You can make your point without using words like that.
That Man yes i was born and raised in spain and moved to holland with my dutch parents when i was 7 so yes i have have to admit i like spain more but holland is also good
Pretty much spot on about the Dutch culture, although there's hardly any religion here. Atleast I don't know any religious people at all, living in Drenthe.
I truly enjoyed your video! I'm glad you like the Dutch culture so well! I'm Dutch and I don't think I even know what to answer on the American "What's up? " or "How are you doing?" I have a question by the way. I'm not an atheist but don't follow any religion either and I'm really happy that way. I'm really interested in various religions. What if missionaries knock on my door? Is it possible to just talk about the vision of Mormon's without them trying to convert you?
DutchyDubs For sure you can talk with missionaries. They'll want to share with you their testimonies about the Gospel and invite you to learn more, but it's always your choice. Missionaries are used to people having lessons to learn more about the church without the people joining the church. Though if someone comes to know that what the church teaches is true, they'll often naturally want to become a member of it. You should totally talk with missionaries if you ever see them! It'll make their day. Missions are quite hard. You work for 1.5-2 yrs paying your own way, doing missionary work for about 60-70 hours/week, dealing with lots of rejection, sharing something they find very valuable with people who often don't take the time to listen. So if you listen, I'm sure it will be a blessing for them! nice to meet you! Alex
DutchyDubs I am not Dutch, I am South American, but I live in Amsterdam for 13 years. I can tell you, when US Americans ask you "what's up?" or "how are you doing?", it should be addressed in the exact same way as the typical dutchie question "hoe gaat het?" (for non-Dutch speakers, "how is it going?"), which Dutch people always (ALWAYS!) answer with "ja, goed! en met jouw?" ("yeah, good! and with you?"). Unless you are close friends, Dutch people also don't really want to know how you truly are doing when they ask that question. In fact, more than an actual inquiry of how you are truly doing, for Dutch people the "hoe gaat het?" question is simply an expression of desire that you are doing well, without really wanting to know the truth, especially if it is a negative one, let alone details about it. I must add, to finalise this and put it in context, that I presume missionaries - due to their caring nature - have a very different approach to human interaction and social communication than the average Dutch person would have.
yamilams I don't agree... they say "ja, goed!" but they really go "ugh.. why is this person even asking me..." if they're depressed or they do it out of habit because they are used to non-dutch... only when they are actually feeling good, they'll say it cheerfully.. but some people find it just as annoying as feeling pressured by social habit saying "gezondheid" ("bless you") after someone sneezes... most people respond out of respect for those that find it important, just like birthdays.. not everyone likes them or the fact that we grow older every year.
***** and to cappie2000: I guess I was not clear enough. Indeed, dutch people NEVER ask "hoe gaat het met jou?" to people they don't know. I never said they do. All I'm saying is that when dutchies ask that (which they do only to people they do know), they mean it (unless you are good friends) only as a formality.
i live in the netherlands and a missionary came to my door(she spoke dutch)spreading the word of jesus, they asked me then if i was intrested in hearing more about it. i said no.and there were no hard feelings, i was being honest and wished every one to be honest with me. gues this is a great thing about the netherlands. its funny you mentioned the exact thing
I am not religious, but I find it very very interesting what people have to say about my culture, and the way we do things, or at least, what it seems like to others. it makes it easier to look at your own culture with open eyes. it's interesting
The first notion is so true and it is one of the things i love about dutch people. Quite different from the UK where things are either wrapped up in hollow compliments or pretending not to notice.
as a Dutch guy i felt i owed you a response to your video. you were talking a lot about us and most of the time you were right. you could have done your speech in 2.5 minutes though, instead of more than 17 minutes. but i guess that's just my Dutch efficiency speaking :) as far as the titel of your video goes: you nailed it. talking about nailing it, i respect you for being a missionary and i enjoy your position about 4 times a week. keep up the good work.
The Netherlands just the size of a dot on the worldmap and below sea-level...i am dutch and i love my little country..the haring the cheese stampot and most of the people...come to visit us one day..you will like it...thank you for the positive comments..greetings from The Netherlands..
I am an ex-exchange student from the Netherlands (rotterdam) and i love this video. I was placed in Indiana and people found me rude and mean, even people who didn't know me. I am not religios soo that was weird to the most people to. But this guy takes the words out of my mouth how i could never discribe my way of doing things. Btw is was an awesome high school year.
Dear author… I hope you will read this. I don’t know your name, but… I’ve been crying for the most part of this video. Your video is God’s blessing for me. He knew… I worked with Dutch people in the past and since then this love’s been driving me so intensively! Right now I’m waiting for my mission call. And you can easily guess what is my greatest desire. I love them so much! While I was listening to your sincere words, I felt the Holy Spirit very strongly… I’ve come across your “report” coincidentally. But you know - to the same extent as I do - that there are no coincidences in this life. Special thanks for mentioning Groningen! You answered several questions which I really had no person to address to. God does wonderful things. You were definitely encouraged by the Spirit to make this video. Oh may He bless you for this!
6:15. "They are not wasting your time". Klopt ! (Correct). Of course it differs from area to area but a lot of people consider wasting someone's (always precious) time to be a little bit impolite (if not worse). I have a thing with history so please don't mind me but I think its origins lay in the fact that during the days of greater Calvinist influence (coincidently the Dutch Golden Age) there was the idea that people were full of sin and that they had to work hard and be productive (in the eyes of the Lord, basically) so wasting someone's time was wasting someone's life (remember all those Vanitas portraits ? Its meaning was crystal clear: Memento Mori) - in a way. Of course the present generation wouldn't see it this way but that's where it has its origins.
nice video man really got me. I like how passionate you are about what you do although i expected a different video when i clicked on it i kept watching till the end.
Wow, that's quite logical, about not saying 'how are you?' to strangers. Never tought about it, but why would you tell someone who doesn't know you what's going on in your life. You'll always say; I'm fine or something..
+Nathanaël Viiperi To be honest, I'm Dutch and I didn't know that saying ''how are you doing'' to strangers was a thing in other country's :') But when you ask someone nicely, its not like they are offended like he said in the video. It's just not so common. Most of the time we only wish people a nice day and stuff like that.
+Max Tilman idk know about you guys. (I'm Dutch too I'm from the south) but here it's actually really normal to talk to for instance the cashier about something small you know. The weather for instance but not about how their life is. That's too personal. But that doesn't mean we don't talk to strangers right? I'd talk to anyone really just not about how my personal life is. Or do you think differently?🙊🙊😅
+MessiahNerves so if a stranger comes up to you you tell them your life story? (Don't mean to be rude and I know this sentence sounds like overreacting but I'm honestly wondering that😅🙊)
+Max Tilman yeah but still. It's the timing. When I'm seriously wandering around a bit or going to a friend I'm not really rushing. If someone would ask me something then, I'd take my time I guess. But it also depends on personality
When you're asking Dutch people to listen to your story, just by starting a conversation when you meet them in the streets, you better make sure you don't give them the feeling that you want to sell anything to them. If we have the feeling you're trying to sell us something, we will turn away, because if we want to buy something we go the store where this item is available. Chances are very low we will buy something just because someone starts a conversation with you.
This video was amazing. I am a dutch guy and everything he said is true. Thanks for clearing a few things up I love to try to spread Gods word but like he said if you try to in their head they block you off. So for now I am going to start to spreid Gods love instead of Gods word. Well good luck with your mission
so many things you said are true, so many things.... it scares me. I've been doing research to look at the Netherlands from foreigners perspective because a friend of mine is in Japan now and looks back to Holland like a foreigner now.
You are absolutely correct about asking someone "how are you" or a similar remark.....let me give you a hint ; when you (for example) need directions anywhere in the Netherlands, just walk up to any person and say ; "excuse me, can you help me ? " No Dutch citizen will deny or refuse helping you the best they can at that point........just don't start by asking 'how I am doing' because first of all it's none of your bussiness, and second I indeed know that is not what you want to know hahahahahaaaa... Great video by the way , and love from the Netherlands (or Holland)...... Jack.
i think you have a really good spirit..thanks for the true and nice things you said..about us.. i endoyed your video greetings from the Netherlands.(Almere)
Last year and this year i had you guys on my door. I gave a drink and we discussed many things like, history, politics, films, religion and many other things. With 2 guys i even watched a part of Batman Begins(cause they knocked on the door while was watching). On the last encounter we even prayed together. I think we both enjoy the experience and learn a lot of eachother. I will never be a member of your church but it's allways fun to meet you guys :)
I do not share the same views on life as the people in your videos, but from a cultural/anthropological point of view they are very interesting and I really enjoy them. Just wanted to let you know.
If you ring the doorbell of this happy dutch agnostic I'll tell you right off the bat I'm not interested and will not be convinced to buy or believe anything. If you need help, though, I will be devoted to help you any way I can, because I like to bring more good to the world. I recognise this about other dutch people in your talkings.
Moi,Its a nice video! I am from Holland, Drenthe, Close to Assen. I'm going to school in groningen.All what you say is true. So funny to hear someone talk about Netherlands.groetjes, Blanca
I'm from the middle of Holland, but I live in the north. I live in a part of Friesland where there's a lot of people who want Friesland to be an independant country.
this is rather accurate, but the how are you doing thing depends on the personality, I love talking to strangers, doesnt matter if they're foreign or not :)
I think your analysis of Dutch social interaction is on point, including the differences in local culture and although you clearly mentioned it, I do think you cant stress enough that - for most Dutch people - religion is indeed a very personal and private thing; a relation between them and God first and mostly, and only then involving family, friends and (in some cases) the closed community of the church they attend. I still believe it's one of the top 5 things that defines them as a person (for religious people obviously), but they won't easily share or acknowledge it. You'll see it reflected in their core believes and moral standards though... And yes, we Dutchies usually have a hard time adapting to the more 'superficial' American way (as we would put it), but at the same time it's like the oil that lubricates an engine; a necessity (or tool) to keep an engine (or social interaction) running smoothly and thus has it uses and positive effect. The lack of it in The Netherlands is reflected in the way we lack 'customer service'; I'll bet that any American would find (for example) the average service in a restaurant appalling and perhaps even rude... because it is :)
I'm from the Rotterdam area and you are spot on hahahaha :"D. We are very honest people up front, which really isn't meant to be offensive, as you said :). People from the south and (upper) north tend to be a little more reserved. Dutch people also usually don't talk about money.
+Ayla ASMR True. I live in Rotterdam now for 1 and a half year. And the Dutch are very honest. But you do talk about money, mainly how to spend as little as possible or how to save it.
They just dont like "fakeness" or when people overreact. Just be honest and they will appreciate you
I don't share your religious views but I have so much respect for you. The way you captured the dutch culture as an outsider is amazing.
P. Simons
Amazing? Really? Have you seen the blog StuffDutchPeopleLike?
Salmagundiii No and how is that relevant?
You talk very nicely about our people but you seem to think a big part of our population is religious. Religion here is a personal thing yes. But the fact is that the majority of the population here does not believe in a god. They probably didnt want to hurt your feelings because you do believe in god. We do not dislike people who believe in a god we just don't want to be bothered by someone that tells us how the world works and that we should worship something we don't believe exists. Still I have to give you credit for seeing what dutch people really are like.
Rotterdam is a harbor city. It's very blue collar. They're very direct, even for Dutch standards.
Another Dutch here, don't know how I got here but watched it all. You really know how to tell a story, you got good vibes.
One of the first video's on youtube where someone not Dutch pretty much hit the jackpot. You are absolutly right on your description of Dutch people.
What I realy appreciate is the fact that he didnt begin about the drugs.. this is the first video i watched about the netherlands without any words of drugs. and i smiled with you at the last minutes what you said about when we become friends and we will do everything for a friend. Thank You !
BasForSure Thanks for watching! :)
waarschijnlijk kijken echt alleen nederlanders dit
nie waar ook Belgen 😃
im dutch and what you said was right, cause we dont matter if a strangers life is good, so keep up the good work Prepare to serve!
thanks!
One of the most astute analysis of my county I have ever heard a foreigner make. I learned a lot about us Dutch from the look you gave me through your eyes. Going door to door really makes you get to know a people I guess.
I met some Americans of your religion that went from door to door. We had a lovely talk about religion and my personal believes. I did not envy them, being a missionary in a country consisting mostly out of atheists must have been pretty hard.
this is such a cool video! I'm dutch and I could really relate to what you meant. We are very practical but once you get to know us or when you start to be our friend we can be the best ones. thank you for this video!
You are a very good person. i am happy people here treated you nicely.
Lol I think I grew up in the wrong country. Ppl I used to go to church with would see me at the gas station or grocery store or wherever and say "hey how are you?" I would look at them and Usually say something like.."terrible" or do you rly care? They looked at me like I was nuts. I also was given the title of most blunt in high school. Dutch people sound awesome! My kinda peeps
Yeah its awesome here
Yup awsome here
Just come 😃
***** I'm not entirlely sure but I think that should be "we shall welcome thee with open arms" Thou, oblique/objective: thee, possessive: thy/thine. Very archaic :)
SAME .
I dislike people bothering me with their religion, but I do like your positive attitude and the respectful way you talk about my country. You're welcome here.
Hi Im dutch, i loved your video.
I didnt expect a spiritual video like this.. I thought it was just a video about dutch people, but you touched my heart... Its great how you understand us so sood... Not many people do... Rarely people do.
If you come to the netherlands again i would be pleased to have a seat and have a deep talk with you!
Thanks for this great video.
Im not a christian , im more into buddhism but a god is a god for everyone.
Thanks
Greets from the netherlands (region Brabant)
There would be very few people that will tell someone their dutch is bad. Most dutch people would switch to english in stead.
Yes we would!
that's true but not all btw am from belgium
+Wannes Biermans Yeah, there's your problem
You seem like a genuine person, and I respect you for it. Even though (as an atheist and scientist) I have a lot of issues with religious movements, my love goes out to you. This is because we are all humans, after all, and you just want to make the world a better place.
All the best from a biracial German living in The Netherlands ;)
I am an agnostic Dutch man, and i have very much enjoyed your video. i saw myself in your description of the Dutch thank you, it was very reflective and fun. you seem like a good and nice person, good luck :)
And about the missionary part: It's mainly that many people dislike it when christians can't accept others having different beliefs, and we all know about the practises from the jehova's witnesses and such. When you ring someone's door and open with "what brings you happiness", people usually see what's coming and will merely ask "why are you asking" out of politeness, more or less.
I respect that you came to our atheist country as a missionairy and just did your thing and got interrested in our culture to get your message across. Good luck in your life. Greetings from Holland!!
Really enjoyed your video! I'm dutch and a christian by the way. I recognized what you said and you are totally right haha!
Thanks for sharing! Be blessed!
Yoica De Jong Thanks! That's wonderful you are Christian too!
***** Hi and a other Dutch Christian here ! Bless you
I really liked your video! The things you said at the end were really nice, thank you :) Your video reminded me of my time in America! Every time when i entered a store someone would say "How are you" and every time I would answer them and ask them how they are doing! After a while I got really confused by everyone asking me how i was doing, so i asked someone why everyone wanted to know how i was doing?! And then i realized how stupid it was to actually answer their question.. But even after I knew I shouldn't answer someone I felt like i was ignoring them! So it was really difficult for me!
But I love the country and I've had wonderfull conversations with people, who just told us everything about themselves. After talking to someone for an hour I felt like we've been friends for over a year! Basically what i'm trying to say is; I really like your country! :D thank you for making this video :)
+Aranka Kwakkernaat thanks for watching!
It's so cool to hear the genuine opinion about the Dutch from an American. I actually recognise a lot of the characteristics you described. Your pronunciation of the letter 'G' is on point! It's so much fun to ask people who do not speak Dutch to pronounce things like 'Groningen'. And the thing about us being so down to earth is probably true, I hear it from a lot of people.
wel there is a joke in my region of the netherlands
a misunary comes the door and saise i have come to bring the light then i say great!!! i just have a broken one in the kitchen
boeftim :) nice joke!
+boeftim savage
+boeftim That english is awesome :P I'm dutch aswell :D
+boeftim your English is better than a lady I work with who is American born.
+Prepare to Serve! Groningers are most "nuchter" in the netherlands :)
So true about loving people and learning to accept the things they do and that making all the difference.
Wat zijn we trouwens een bot volk :'). "Hallo mag U ik iets vragen over.." (ziet bijbel). "Nee, doei."
+Nathanaël Viiperi Ik prefereer 'efficiënt' :P. Maar inderdaad, we zijn niet het makkelijkste volkje om als missionaris in rond te lopen, niet zo heel vreemd dat het in het verleden ook weinig succesvol gebeurd is.
+Maarten Kok Heel vroeger werden missionarisen vermoord en onthoofd dus we hebben onze gewoontes verbeterd.
+Nathanaël Viiperi Het is een 50/50 vraag, ja of nee. Ieder antwoord zou dus niet vreemd moeten zijn.
hahahaha precies
Echt he
That was a touching story, it seems like you really learned a lot about the people of the Netherlands. For anyone traveling to the Netherlands you can learn a lot from this video. My personal advice would be to always be sincere. If you say something to Dutch people make sure it is true, and be prepared to backup what you say. Also try to be direct, being direct is often taken as a sign of respect and honesty. And finally I would like to dissuade you from coming to the Netherlands if you are looking for converts because you will most likely be very disappointed.
+Franciscus van der Maat beetje te kort door de bocht. mormoonse kerk groeit in nederland en 80% is door het veldwerk langs de deur.
H.R.C. Jansen Dat er groei is sluit niet uit dat mensen teleurgesteld kunnen zijn in de mate van die groei. De jongeman in de video waarschuwt daar ook voor.
Mee eens.
You're spot on about us dutch people and you seem like a real cool guy. God bless you🙏🏽
I find it very admirable how full of love this man's heart is. And also how he has such a deep understanding of Dutch culture. Good job!
You seem to miss the Netherlands quite a lot, perhaps you should think about moving there permanently.
Im dutch myself but the walking up to somebody and saying hello only really counts in city's and other busy arreas. But where i live in a small town for example it is actually pretty normal to walk up to somebody and say hello. and btw nice video keep up the good work!
I think that the netherlands arent very religious at all. Noord-Braband and Limburg are the most religious. But when you go to a city where students live/study they probably believe in science anyways :P
Not my town, like it's mostly what you grew up with!
Yes, we grew brains.
+Chiara Joosten I am Living in Holland about 6 months so I have so many friends but none of them are religious.
even in Brabant there arent much religios ppl...
Yep Brabant too. In our school there aren't any religious people in VWO.
rotterdammers sound rude but they just like to get to the point without any hassle
Im from Rotterdam
Joey Mohamedajoeb Depends on your own culture, just like he said in the video ;) It's normal for us.
voetball droeftoeter
Qauzy i'm from den haag and utrecht, but i olso don't like ppl on my door.
Katja Cecil oke, maar dat is gewoon een nederlands iets. ik bedoel hoe vaak ga je langs iemand zonder van tevoren te bellen. (bij mij komt het weinig voor...)
I am dutch and everything you have said is right! It's amost scary how well you describe our culture.
You're 3000% true about our bluntness, even though we might sound rude to foreigners with our extreme honesty, we find it rude if people don't tell us the truth. Honesty is valued here a lot lmao
Greatly enjoying these videos. Love your attitude, and you all seem very well adjusted. Going abroad, learning a new language and meeting people with different perspectives on life is something that every young adult should get to do.
I'm dutch as well, and I think this is a great video. Maybe because we're so down to earth when we ask: 'how's your day' and we really mean it, because we're just asking something in order to wanting to genuinely know the answer. What we say, we mean. And that is practical, that is down to earth❤️
i love your positivity
You're spot on about alot of observations on the Dutch. One of the reasons why you find hard times knocking on doors is that there is a christian group called 'Jehova's getuigen' (i believe they are the same as the watchtower group) which sends their followers door to door telling about how people are doomed if they aren't following their specific brand of christianity. Many people have become experienced at turning them away.
Also the superficial fakeness that is wielded alot by americans is not so much offensive, it's more annoying than anything else. you know it's over the top exaggerated interest because that person has some motive or wants to sell something. It's one of the things about the american culture that will never lift off here.
On the religion part, 2/3 of america thinks religion is an important part in their life whereas about 2/3 of the Netherlands don't think it's important.
This is so beautiful! It's just what I needed! THANK YOU!
😊❤🙏
You are an insightful man my friend :-)
this was fun to watch! as a dutchman I am one of the majority who is not religious and often times I have taken offence to missionaries, but this guy comes across as very astute and open-minded.
You should run for president. You are a very good person and the world needs just that right now. Thank you for your wise words in all your videos, I've very much enjoyed them and please don't give up on this world; I won't. Good luck to you and may God be with you.
Haha this is spot on! As a Dutchie, I love it! ♥
OMG !!! you are dutch and like kingdom hearts ( by looking at you're pic) !? bro I'm to you have no idea how hard it is to find someone who knows kingdom hearts where I am
+zoom0391 True! There are not really a lot of KH fans here in The Netherlands. There are plenty of KH fans out there though ;P
thats wy i love social media XD
This made me proud to be a Dutch person
That Man First of all, I am always open and honest, so don't tell me I am not, you don't know me. Second, yes there are a lot of people on their cell phones, but that doesn't mean that they won't be friendly when you approach them. And Indeed, William Brons is right, it depends on where in the Netherlands you are. I grew up in a smaller village, so that's different from the big cities. But still, even in the big cities, I know the majority of the people is very open minded, very friendly and helpful. Lastly, I don't think the bs comment is very nice. You can make your point without using words like that.
That Man " a bad culture" no it's not we have an amazing culture!
That Man it does not all culture is good here
That Man yes i was born and raised in spain and moved to holland with my dutch parents when i was 7 so yes i have have to admit i like spain more but holland is also good
That Man "I never said its a bad culture"Your last comment......"Its such a bad culture to be honest"
Nuchter means something like clear thinking without to much emotion
Pretty much spot on about the Dutch culture, although there's hardly any religion here. Atleast I don't know any religious people at all, living in Drenthe.
steven hofman 54% van de nederlanders hebben een religie en zeggen in God te geloven. Dat is meer dan de helft.
Whistler4u Source? Ik ken namelijk geen enkel gelovig iemand :o echt helemaal niemand.
steven hofman CBS cijfers. Makkelijk te Googelen
Whistler4u link ;)? Ik kan ook zeggen ja zoek zelf maar op... dat werkt niet hoor.
steven hofman Ik zou iets opzoeken voordat ik een ongefundeerde mening zou spuien. cbs.nl voor al je statistieken.
GRONINGEN hey hey hey. The happiest city in Europe :D
I love his mentality, and do recognize our behavior in what he describes!
I truly enjoyed your video! I'm glad you like the Dutch culture so well! I'm Dutch and I don't think I even know what to answer on the American "What's up? " or "How are you doing?"
I have a question by the way. I'm not an atheist but don't follow any religion either and I'm really happy that way. I'm really interested in various religions. What if missionaries knock on my door? Is it possible to just talk about the vision of Mormon's without them trying to convert you?
DutchyDubs For sure you can talk with missionaries. They'll want to share with you their testimonies about the Gospel and invite you to learn more, but it's always your choice. Missionaries are used to people having lessons to learn more about the church without the people joining the church. Though if someone comes to know that what the church teaches is true, they'll often naturally want to become a member of it. You should totally talk with missionaries if you ever see them! It'll make their day. Missions are quite hard. You work for 1.5-2 yrs paying your own way, doing missionary work for about 60-70 hours/week, dealing with lots of rejection, sharing something they find very valuable with people who often don't take the time to listen. So if you listen, I'm sure it will be a blessing for them! nice to meet you! Alex
DutchyDubs I am not Dutch, I am South American, but I live in Amsterdam for 13 years. I can tell you, when US Americans ask you "what's up?" or "how are you doing?", it should be addressed in the exact same way as the typical dutchie question "hoe gaat het?" (for non-Dutch speakers, "how is it going?"), which Dutch people always (ALWAYS!) answer with "ja, goed! en met jouw?" ("yeah, good! and with you?"). Unless you are close friends, Dutch people also don't really want to know how you truly are doing when they ask that question.
In fact, more than an actual inquiry of how you are truly doing, for Dutch people the "hoe gaat het?" question is simply an expression of desire that you are doing well, without really wanting to know the truth, especially if it is a negative one, let alone details about it.
I must add, to finalise this and put it in context, that I presume missionaries - due to their caring nature - have a very different approach to human interaction and social communication than the average Dutch person would have.
yamilams I don't agree... they say "ja, goed!" but they really go "ugh.. why is this person even asking me..." if they're depressed or they do it out of habit because they are used to non-dutch... only when they are actually feeling good, they'll say it cheerfully.. but some people find it just as annoying as feeling pressured by social habit saying "gezondheid" ("bless you") after someone sneezes... most people respond out of respect for those that find it important, just like birthdays.. not everyone likes them or the fact that we grow older every year.
***** and to cappie2000: I guess I was not clear enough. Indeed, dutch people NEVER ask "hoe gaat het met jou?" to people they don't know. I never said they do. All I'm saying is that when dutchies ask that (which they do only to people they do know), they mean it (unless you are good friends) only as a formality.
DutchyDubs The world is my country, science my religion. Christiaan Huygens
all what i sense is that you are a good person and touched my heart.
God bless you. greetings from Amsterdam.
Not religious at all but almost got jealous on you for your strong believe and love. You are some awesome guy. Grtz from 010
i live in the netherlands and a missionary came to my door(she spoke dutch)spreading the word of jesus, they asked me then if i was intrested in hearing more about it. i said no.and there were no hard feelings, i was being honest and wished every one to be honest with me. gues this is a great thing about the netherlands. its funny you mentioned the exact thing
This is hilarious :D Like that thing about walking up to people and saying how are you doing is so true!
I am not religious, but I find it very very interesting what people have to say about my culture, and the way we do things, or at least, what it seems like to others. it makes it easier to look at your own culture with open eyes.
it's interesting
Nuchter means to things it also means that you didn't drink alcohol.
Thanks man, i really enjoyed your video about dutch culture, its spot on.
The first notion is so true and it is one of the things i love about dutch people. Quite different from the UK where things are either wrapped up in hollow compliments or pretending not to notice.
as a Dutch guy i felt i owed you a response to your video.
you were talking a lot about us and most of the time you were right.
you could have done your speech in 2.5 minutes though, instead of more than 17 minutes.
but i guess that's just my Dutch efficiency speaking :)
as far as the titel of your video goes: you nailed it.
talking about nailing it, i respect you for being a missionary and i enjoy your position about 4 times a week.
keep up the good work.
The Netherlands just the size of a dot on the worldmap and below sea-level...i am dutch and i love my little country..the haring the cheese stampot and most of the people...come to visit us one day..you will like it...thank you for the positive comments..greetings from The Netherlands..
I am an ex-exchange student from the Netherlands (rotterdam) and i love this video. I was placed in Indiana and people found me rude and mean, even people who didn't know me. I am not religios soo that was weird to the most people to. But this guy takes the words out of my mouth how i could never discribe my way of doing things. Btw is was an awesome high school year.
Best description of Dutch people I have heard so far!
The amount of cuteness is too d*mn high (>.
I think you have it down well, your positive attitude is almost limitless.
Dear author… I hope you will read this. I don’t know your name, but… I’ve been crying for the most part of this video. Your video is God’s blessing for me. He knew…
I worked with Dutch people in the past and since then this love’s been driving me so intensively! Right now I’m waiting for my mission call. And you can easily guess what is my greatest desire. I love them so much!
While I was listening to your sincere words, I felt the Holy Spirit very strongly… I’ve come across your “report” coincidentally. But you know - to the same extent as I do - that there are no coincidences in this life.
Special thanks for mentioning Groningen!
You answered several questions which I really had no person to address to. God does wonderful things. You were definitely encouraged by the Spirit to make this video. Oh may He bless you for this!
Любовь Синицына Thanks for such a nice comment! Wish you the best on your mission!
***** Thank you! BTW yesterday your video itself was a missionary work for someone in the Netherlands :D
6:15. "They are not wasting your time". Klopt ! (Correct). Of course it differs from area to area but a lot of people consider wasting someone's (always precious) time to be a little bit impolite (if not worse).
I have a thing with history so please don't mind me but I think its origins lay in the fact that during the days of greater Calvinist influence (coincidently the Dutch Golden Age) there was the idea that people were full of sin and that they had to work hard and be productive (in the eyes of the Lord, basically) so wasting someone's time was wasting someone's life (remember all those Vanitas portraits ? Its meaning was crystal clear: Memento Mori) - in a way. Of course the present generation wouldn't see it this way but that's where it has its origins.
You look like my physics teacher
Lol
This is so great, because you're really right about it. And very funny.
nice video man really got me. I like how passionate you are about what you do although i expected a different video when i clicked on it i kept watching till the end.
Wow, that's quite logical, about not saying 'how are you?' to strangers. Never tought about it, but why would you tell someone who doesn't know you what's going on in your life. You'll always say; I'm fine or something..
+Nathanaël Viiperi To be honest, I'm Dutch and I didn't know that saying ''how are you doing'' to strangers was a thing in other country's :') But when you ask someone nicely, its not like they are offended like he said in the video. It's just not so common. Most of the time we only wish people a nice day and stuff like that.
+Max Tilman idk know about you guys. (I'm Dutch too I'm from the south) but here it's actually really normal to talk to for instance the cashier about something small you know. The weather for instance but not about how their life is. That's too personal. But that doesn't mean we don't talk to strangers right? I'd talk to anyone really just not about how my personal life is. Or do you think differently?🙊🙊😅
well you dutch so its obv for you since you are dutch but in USA its much diffrent and its polite to ask I think
+MessiahNerves so if a stranger comes up to you you tell them your life story? (Don't mean to be rude and I know this sentence sounds like overreacting but I'm honestly wondering that😅🙊)
+Max Tilman yeah but still. It's the timing. When I'm seriously wandering around a bit or going to a friend I'm not really rushing. If someone would ask me something then, I'd take my time I guess. But it also depends on personality
When you're asking Dutch people to listen to your story, just by starting a conversation when you meet them in the streets, you better make sure you don't give them the feeling that you want to sell anything to them. If we have the feeling you're trying to sell us something, we will turn away, because if we want to buy something we go the store where this item is available. Chances are very low we will buy something just because someone starts a conversation with you.
I respect your beliefs.. I like your positivity. I love your passion. I'm open for new things, but I'm not religious. But I respect you for you.
I could feel the love you have for the country and I'm pretty sure Nederland loves you back. At least this Dutch girl does.
Thnks bro youre the first guy thats not saying things that is not true thumbs up
As a dutchmen (Living in Gouda), I really found this a nice video/funny to a bit :P
Gouwenezen, unite!
YAY xD
True!!
What you said it just the truth.
Great video!
Much love to The Mission in Rotterdam Feijnoord! Good work analyzing local culture.
This video was amazing. I am a dutch guy and everything he said is true. Thanks for clearing a few things up I love to try to spread Gods word but like he said if you try to in their head they block you off. So for now I am going to start to spreid Gods love instead of Gods word. Well good luck with your mission
so many things you said are true, so many things.... it scares me. I've been doing research to look at the Netherlands from foreigners perspective because a friend of mine is in Japan now and looks back to Holland like a foreigner now.
You are absolutely correct about asking someone "how are you" or a similar remark.....let me give you a hint ; when you (for example) need directions anywhere in the Netherlands, just walk up to any person and say ; "excuse me, can you help me ? "
No Dutch citizen will deny or refuse helping you the best they can at that point........just don't start by asking 'how I am doing' because first of all it's none of your bussiness, and second I indeed know that is not what you want to know hahahahahaaaa...
Great video by the way , and love from the Netherlands (or Holland)......
Jack.
i think you have a really good spirit..thanks for the true and nice things you said..about us.. i endoyed your video
greetings from the Netherlands.(Almere)
Last year and this year i had you guys on my door. I gave a drink and we discussed many things like, history, politics, films, religion and many other things. With 2 guys i even watched a part of Batman Begins(cause they knocked on the door while was watching). On the last encounter we even prayed together. I think we both enjoy the experience and learn a lot of eachother. I will never be a member of your church but it's allways fun to meet you guys :)
I do not share the same views on life as the people in your videos, but from a cultural/anthropological point of view they are very interesting and I really enjoy them. Just wanted to let you know.
I'm Dutch and it is sooooooooooo funny to watch this😂😂😂
Genuine, entertaining guy! Cheers
I am not religious, but after hearing this I undertand more of you and your believe. Great story (I do not know the other word) You are a great guy !!
If you ring the doorbell of this happy dutch agnostic I'll tell you right off the bat I'm not interested and will not be convinced to buy or believe anything. If you need help, though, I will be devoted to help you any way I can, because I like to bring more good to the world. I recognise this about other dutch people in your talkings.
Moi,Its a nice video! I am from Holland, Drenthe, Close to Assen. I'm going to school in groningen.All what you say is true. So funny to hear someone talk about Netherlands.groetjes, Blanca
I'm from the middle of Holland, but I live in the north. I live in a part of Friesland where there's a lot of people who want Friesland to be an independant country.
This is an amazing video.
Yes we are in fact so down to earth it is below sea level ;) (literally The Nethrlands is below sea level)
you re a truly great man, brother...
this is rather accurate, but the how are you doing thing depends on the personality, I love talking to strangers, doesnt matter if they're foreign or not :)
I think your analysis of Dutch social interaction is on point, including the differences in local culture and although you clearly mentioned it, I do think you cant stress enough that - for most Dutch people - religion is indeed a very personal and private thing; a relation between them and God first and mostly, and only then involving family, friends and (in some cases) the closed community of the church they attend. I still believe it's one of the top 5 things that defines them as a person (for religious people obviously), but they won't easily share or acknowledge it. You'll see it reflected in their core believes and moral standards though...
And yes, we Dutchies usually have a hard time adapting to the more 'superficial' American way (as we would put it), but at the same time it's like the oil that lubricates an engine; a necessity (or tool) to keep an engine (or social interaction) running smoothly and thus has it uses and positive effect. The lack of it in The Netherlands is reflected in the way we lack 'customer service'; I'll bet that any American would find (for example) the average service in a restaurant appalling and perhaps even rude... because it is :)
Well, I'm Dutch and I say 'hi' to everyone! And ask them how they are doing!
Nice video i am dutch and i like it a lot!
im dutch.. i liked youre video. you are right in alot of things :)
I'm from the Rotterdam area and you are spot on hahahaha :"D. We are very honest people up front, which really isn't meant to be offensive, as you said :). People from the south and (upper) north tend to be a little more reserved.
Dutch people also usually don't talk about money.
+Ayla ASMR True. I live in Rotterdam now for 1 and a half year. And the Dutch are very honest. But you do talk about money, mainly how to spend as little as possible or how to save it.
Paul S. We are known as frugal people haha
Paul S. it's true, though hahaha. We either spend a LOT of money or we hardly spend anything xD
Am I the only person who thinks this guy looks slightly like John Oliver but obviously a lot younger lol hopefully that is not an insult to him
nuchter has two translations. It also means sober like in being drunk but it also means like being down to earth