First, here is just a wee bit of history to help put the following blog entry in context.
Jim and I were both raised in strong Christian homes with what most people would describe as loving but strict parents. Our families placed an emphasis on rules and guidelines to help us understand the importance of authority - not only in regards to our parents but also to any other adult figure involved in our lives. Then to top it off, Jim spent six and a half years in the Marine Corps where the concept of obedience and authority are taken to a new level. As a result of our parents and respective backgrounds, Jim and I both place a high value on obedience and authority.
However, God in his sovereignty (and sense of humor) has called us to live not only in a culture that doesn’t place the same level of value on these things, but at home for 60 girls who as a result of their difficult backgrounds seem to have an even lower regard for authority and obedience. As the nurse here at the Girls’ Home, I am constantly bumping into these cultural differences. Whether it’s a child that doesn’t feel like taking her dose of antibiotics or a girl that has decided that she would rather play outside than attend her class, you can imagine the complications that arise in my day-to-day tasks. Through the last several months of frustration, questions, observation, moments of realization and insights, Jim and I finally realized that it wasn’t just a simple case of misbehavior, but that there are some very real differences in how Colombian culture views these issues and how we are used to thinking about them.
In the midst of this, like in some many other things, please pray for us as we struggle to discern how and when to address issues with the girls and with the staff. Please continue to pray that we will have the wisdom to know what are cultural differences and what are heart issues, and pray that God will give us the grace to adapt, and be sensitive to other people while continuing to share the love of Jesus that changes lives.
The three gringos.
2 comments:
Wow, that's really interesting, Jesse. (I'm a friend of Jim's from College) It must be especially difficult because you guys are in positions to lead as well, not just observe.
We're in Australia, and here as well there's a sort of ingrained lack of respect for authority. Aussie's say it's probably linked to their beginnings as a penal colony. Bosses act more as consensus facilitators than as the "law". And some do say they admire Americans for their ability to respect and obey authority.
Anyways, will be praying for you guys that God will give you understanding and principles of wisdom to figure out how to lead in this different culture. =)
well, i HAD composed a long response and my internet went on the fritz and i lost it. i'll just send you an email instead. :O) miss you guys.
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