12. Talk about nationality traits as seen by the English, Scottish, Welsh, and Irish

The four part of the United Kingdom represent four nations that are distinct from each other almost in every aspect of life. It is a common fact that the difference is mainly reflected in the languages they speak, in economic, social, and cultural systems. The long centuries of contact between the people of the British Isles have certainly limited their significant differences, but still they haven’t vanished completely. Now let’s have a look at the national traits of the English, Scottish, Welsh, and Irish a little closer.

Traditionally the English are thought to be reserved and shy of strangers. They don’t tend to show much emotion, as they believe it’s better not to show their feelings to anyone. Besides, the English have the ability to control themselves in difficult situations. As far as I know they’re a little suspicious of change and rather conservative. For instance, they are very stuck to their own measurement system and will never change their miles into kilometers. Nevertheless, the Englishmen are very hardworking, responsible and honest.

The Scots on the contrary, are less reserved and very talkative. Actually, they like chatting especially the country people. They’re easy-going and have natural sense of humor. Moreover, the Scots have a strong sense of their values and traditions, which are in their national songs, dances, poetry, and manners. People say, they have a reputation of being rather thrifty, but despite this fact they are very generous and hospitable. The Scotts always welcome visitors with open arms and offer them plenty of food and drink.

As for the Welsh, they are famous for their wonderful voices and charming songs. Therefore Wales is known as “The land of songs”. The Welsh are really gifted in the art of being poetic in speech and often use bright descriptions of people and events in ordinary conversations. Furthermore, they’re cheerful and kind-hearted to everyone, and like The Scotts are very hospitable.

The Irish are considered to have the richest heritage of literature. As a matter of fact, many great names of English literature were Irish or at least had an Irish background. Apart from that, they are known to be great dreamers, they’re broad-minded and amusing. But at times they can be argumentative and rather stubborn. They are obviously good mixers and very good-mannered.

In conclusion I’d add that all the British people have a common sense, they are practical and realistic, generous and very sensible.

13. Talk about the problems that a Marriage Guidance Council deals with

As far as I know, a Marriage Guidance Council is a special organization which allows married people to talk to a third person about difficulties in their life. Usually most couples come to the Marriage Guidance Council to speak about their everyday simple problems. But sometimes they have really serious problems. Some married people say their life have turned into a real horror film or become unbearable, they feel they can’t see each other and can’t live together any more. But what are the reasons?

Well, quite often qualified psychologists have to listen to some women complaining about their husbands being good for nothing and extremely lazy about household chores. As a rule these are women who take the main responsibility for the house cleaning, cooking and looking after the children. It is a fact that nowadays lots of women tend to take up better careers and earn more than men. So, most men appear to be unable to put up with the position if the lower wage earner and that is another reason for quarrels within a couple. It is hardly to believe but sometimes a woman’s success can make her marriage a failure.

There is one more serious problem. Quite often after young people get married and live together happily about a year they suddenly find out that his/her partner isn’t an ideal husband or wife. They irritate each other awfully and have terrible rows. I think, no one will deny that alcohol or drugs can destroy even the most close-knit family. All these horrifying things sometimes may lead to physical abuse.

Another cause of the quarreling in a family can become children. For instance, some husbands complain about their wives who have suddenly stopped paying attention to them, or become less inquisitive in their work and feelings after a baby was born. But they should understand that it is only temporary, until the child becomes a little older.

Frankly speaking, I can’t understand those people, who visit the Marriage Guidance Council in order to solve their problems, because I think this organization doesn’t do anything to help them. It seems to me, that to reach happiness in marriage couples had better solve the problems by themselves and take their own decisions.