Different Not Wrong

Annette and I love to learn about new cultures and what makes people "tick". We have learned over the years that different is not synonymous with wrong. As we arrive in different countries it is always good to remember that we are the visitors. My father, a career military man, traveled the world and he commented to me once that we could learn something from everyone.





Sarah Lanier in her book Foreign to Familiar writes about the differences between "Hot" and "Cold" climate cultures. She writes from experience, and her insights are right on target. How I wish that I had read something like this before heading to the field 25 years ago.

One example of cultural differences she writes about takes place in Chile. Knowing that Chile was a Hot climate culture (not necessarily temperature wise) and therefore very relational, was taken aback when her new friends and co-workers did not invite her over to their homes. As a result she was lonely and wondered if she was liked by these new friends. She confided in her friend (who was her informal mentor and helper) about the situation she was going through. His reply surprised her when he explained that she was supposed to just "drop by" and insert herself into the group, it was perfectly acceptable and expected for her to act this way. From Sarah's Cold climate culture, it was improper not to plan ahead and so she should wait to be invited. Once she followed the cultural norm she was never lonely and easily bonded with many new friends.
How sad it is to see missionaries who have been on the field for many years and have attained a grasp of the language but have never been able to bond culturally with the people. Usually it is simply ignorance of the culture or fear of the unknown. We must discipline ourselves to learn all we can about the culture in which we are living. This requires effort to force ourselves out of our comfort zones and to become learners once again. It is somewhat like our walk with Christ. We must admit everyday that we have not "arrived" and that there is much to learn from the Lord and His Word.

Have you noticed any cultural differences that were a surprise to you? Let us hear about them.

Grace and Peace,
Mike and Annette