As Americans, we aren't that used to going in depth to point out and study our own values, so it was interesting to read about the accounts regarding our values. Oddly enough, it was sometimes hard to differentiate American values with other values, as some seemed so typical like efficiency, while others were easier to really see the difference (equality of opportunity as not all countries can say the same). While reading Kohl's article, though, it was interesting when I came across certain values that I didn't particularly resonate with as it either didn't follow my religion or Korean culture. For example, I can't say that I'm a very casual person with adults, especially Korean ones and ones that are particularly older as I'm used to treating adults with respect and speaking formally with them as there's a sense of hierarchy towards authority in Korean culture. And although I agree with the fact that we don't stay stagnant in times of trouble and do work hard for our improvements, religion-wise I can't completely say that I only rely on myself and my capabilities. It was also interesting to see another point of view that wasn't Korean or American in the article from the German man's account of American culture, and although it was slightly dated, it was interesting to see such a contrasting thought with what we as Americans perceive as so normal.