If you have traveled outside of the country, you probably understand that cultures differ greatly. The social structure of a country defines the people and their roles in society.
People in the United States can cross either their Northern or Southern boarders and find two entirely different ways of life. In bringing your Russian wife to your country,
knowing something about her country will make the transition much easier for both of you.
If you are able to communicate with your bride to be before she makes the trip to your country, ask her many questions about her life, her friends, and her family. Find out about customs and societal expectations. Talk with her about what her aspirations were before she decided to join a dating service, why she chose to join, and what she expects when she arrives in a new country. Conversely, tell her about why you chose to look for a wife the way that you did, what dreams you have for the future, and what your family and friends are like. The more intimate stories you both can share will provide a basis for you to help her in her cultural transition.
Find a Russian community where you can attempt to find out the differences and the similarities between the two cultures. Speak to the people about family structure, paying close attention to how the Russian family unit compares to the western model. Western culture places a high value on independence, does the same hold true in Russia, if not, what are some of the issues that may occur due to the differences between your expectations and hers.
Food, it can be the nourishment of the soul. Realize that Russia covers a very large area and therefore food can be as different from one region to the next. Find out what her favorite dishes are and see if you can learn to make them or if a restaurant may serve some regional dishes. Find out how they shop for food in Russia, is it open-air markets and fresh food daily, if so it may be a big shock just to walk into a supermarket. Research farmer's markets and types of fresh produce commonly used in Russian dishes.
With technology today, keeping in touch with family and friends over long distances is a computer connection away. Before your bride leaves her home, find out if her family or friends have a computer with video and internet connection. If not, see if she can set these up before leaving. By using video online, she can speak and see the people she cares about, providing her with a social support net. Telephone calls can be made for pennies a minute. Try to arrange as much communication ways as you can. This should help her feel less alone in a new country.
Another important part of a person's life can be a religious belief. If your new wife belongs to a specific religion, find the nearest church where she can practice. If this isn't possible, try to find a religion in your country that may be similar to hers.
Perhaps one of the most beneficial things you could do is to learn the Russian language. Your wife may speak English well, but that doesn't mean she wouldn't appreciate your effort to learn her language. Often there are words, feelings, or situations that really don't have a direct translation between languages. This can be frustrating when trying to communicate an important message.
Marriage by itself is often a tough transition, adding a cultural change can be amazingly difficult. However, by practicing calm response to challenges differences can stay small. Moreover, by making the effort to show support and respect for her situation, your Russian wife should find her new home a very inviting place.
