The biggest part of our first year here has been learning
the language and culture, so for today’s update I will share with you some of
my biggest discoveries about the culture on our island.
- A culture of STRONG family ties- If any of a person’s relatives get married here, they drop everything and go to that wedding no matter where it is and when it takes place. When a child grows up, he has an obligation to take care of elderly relatives financially, physically and emotionally.
- A culture of respect- Locals honor older people with respectful greetings, never question someone in authority, and follow an authority’s wishes with loyalty and without considering anything else.
- A steady culture- Most people here do not desire change, but rather sameness. Changes are generally viewed as the source of trouble, not the solution to current trouble. They love and value their own culture so much that they work hard to try to keep it from changing.
- A culture of hospitality- The people here love to invite you into their homes, to share their meals, and to give you a gift when you leave. From oranges to a cake specially made for a guest, their generosity and kindness to guests is a beautiful thing.
Those are just a few of the things we’ve been discovering,
and we look forward to all the beautiful and challenging things we will find
out in the next few years. Thank
you for all the prayers, support, and encouragement you’ve given us on the
journey so far. We feel blessed to
have you as partners in this great work!!
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