Can you teach old dog new tricks?

@sblossom (2168)
September 17, 2009 4:16am CST
I know there is a culture difference, but I still don’t want accept it. My husband always has his outside shoes at home; I always have slippers when I stay at home. I tried to change his habit and suggest him having slippers at home, but he said it’s not British tradition. He even said you can not teach old dog new tricks. I don’t know if I should insist my suggestion. How about you? How you ever had the experience? Or can you teach old dog new tricks?
2 responses
@owlwings (43897)
• Cambridge, England
17 Sep 09
I think that, in Britain, it's usually not the custom to take off ones outdoor shoes in the house. Of course, if one has wellington boots (gumboots) or boots which are likely to be very dirty or wet, then one does change them but on the whole ordinary dry shoes are worn both inside and out. I do know a few English households where it is the custom to remove outer shoes but they are quite rare. The only way that you are going to make your husband change is by giving him valid reasons for following your custom that he can see are sensible. Don't forget that men's shoes are often much more of a bother to change than women's shoes and that a good wife will not 'dictate' to her husband. If she wants to change his ways, she will find subtle and comfortable ways to do so!
@sblossom (2168)
17 Sep 09
i don't think i can change him. you aleady see he has many saying waiting for me. thanks.
@thea09 (18305)
• Greece
17 Sep 09
Hi sblossom, can we just clarify here. Are you talking about flip flops, sandal like things, or actual slippers, comfy indoor shoes made of soft material. If it's the latter then I rather think the British invented them. There are many examples throughtout literature where a British gentelman would settle down by the fireside with his slippers and his pipe. The alternative is to take the outside shoes off at the door and wander round in socks. If it is the flip flop type then he is right.
@sblossom (2168)
17 Sep 09
I wanted him remove his sandal when he's at home and has his flip flops, but he said no. I think we should wear different shoes at home and outside. thanks and best regards.