So I'm at the house sick today which is giving me a chance to update this.
Life here has been constant changes, so it's hard to fall into a grove. I have my school/teaching schedule but it is probably going to change over the next few weeks because of possible house visits which I'm currently not doing. I have a lot of gaps in the schedule and I'm not sure what to do with all that time during the school days. My living situation has been kind of up in the air... I was initially supposed to have my own room in a flat in the first floor but I'm living in the study and the other northern American girl living here gave up her bed to me and is sleeping in the little girls room at the house. They are building on another room for us to share, but not quite sure when that's going to to be finished.
The culture is very different from the U.S. especially when it comes to personal space and privacy. There isn't much. They also greet each other with one kiss on the cheek, which I really like because makes me feel welcome, being an outsider and not speaking the language makes me feel really awkward a lot of the time. I'm hoping and praying for Spanish lessons so I can start communicating better. Most of you wouldn't know me here, I'm so shy and quiet because even if I had something to say I'm unsure of how to say it. I try not to take to heart the giggles at my horrible Spanish, but I've got to be honest it doesn't encourage me to keep trying. The other night I had people practically yelling and repeating words and phrases to me and I have no idea why... it was really frustrating but now it's kinda comical. Sometimes I've got to repeat "don't cry" over and over, but I'm told that feeling is just part of the culture shock.
It's really beautiful here! I haven't had my camera with me on the really clear days but it's amazing! Volcanoes and mountains all around with a lot of eucalyptus trees and a few pine-types as well. I live in the south which is considered the poorer area but can still be really beautiful.
I feel like I'm kind of crazy for doing this, but then I have to remember that I'm really in love with Jesus and that's the driving force behind this. I'm really truely excited to find out how he's going grow me and use me in others lives.
Thanks for the prayers guys, I really need it! I welcome any emails or letters too, I haven't had a chance to get home sick yet but I know it's just a matter of time.
Prayer:
Spanish lessons and conprehention of the language
Getting over the sickness I currently have
That the room situation would come together soon or whatever God's will is for it
Until next time...
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Hola Amiga!
ReplyDeleteThanks for keeping us up to date. It must be really hard not to understand the language. Ron has a (funny now) story of getting intensely frustrated with language learning when he was a kid and moved to Mexico City. He'll have to share it with you sometime. I'll be praying that you comprehend the language quickly. Is there someone who could give you formal "lessons"? Also praying about your room situation. Love you!
I'm praying for you Shelli!!
ReplyDeleteWow... your update really brought me back to the days when I first arrived in Benin and could remember less French than you know of Spanish now! ... but be encouraged because once you get a tutor and start to make sense of what you hear around you,... and find out how to say things you need to say to function on a day to day basis, it gets easier. And of course, once you have a little more space/privacy than you have now, it will be a lot better as well... but.. it may be a long while before that happens, so I would suggest getting in a mindset of making the best of it and even being creative to find some solutions around some of it (sheet up for privacy, etc.). Really, don't be afraid to cry. I cried so much while abroad... because it was hard (even after 2 years) and culture shock does stink but.. it is all worth it when you're there long enough to build relationships and be humbled at the prospect of God using you for others to see Him more clearly. :) Love you!
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