The longer I remain in the States,
the more I recognize the great contrast between "Western" ways of thinking vs. the typical "African/Middle Eastern" ways.
In our former host countries
(Lebanon, Sudan, Jordan, Egypt)
INTERDEPENDENCE is the theme.
INTERDEPENDENCE is the theme.
Families live together, share any money earned and place it into a common 'purse.'
People rely heavily on public transport, public prayers, public tea/coffee/eating/smoking joints.
Interaction with neighbors is integral.
Interaction with neighbors is integral.
"What is best for ME?" - is not a thought often asked oneself.
Here in the West, INDEPENDENCE is the theme!
From the time we are teenagers, we are taught that independence is valuable.
We get our own driving lessons, our own license, our own vehicle, our own phone, our own insurance and then MUST have our own job in order to afford it all.
We can go to any CVS, Rite-Aid, Walmart - and develop our pictures on our own.
We can buy groceries and not need to interact with any human being if we take our purchases through the SELF-check out aisle.
Inevitably, we open our own checking account, where we store our own money . . that we are saving up for our own car, or our own home, our own life.
Privacy, self-reliance, success are integral!
We are encouraged to "MAKE IT ON OUR OWN" and to "Make Our Own Way in Life"
- as the failure to do so risks appearing lazy, unsuccessful, non-conformist.
When we go through trials, we must pull ourselves UP by our own boot straps and hold our own rope.
Beyond culture and location, we must ask .. what is God's plan for us?
Independence vs Interdependence?
Today, take someone's hand.
Pray for/Pray with/ Give to a poor family, a needy sister, brother, neighbor, co-worker.
Spend time with someone you normally wouldn't because they might be an incredible BURDEN on you, your time and resources.
Pour out your time, resources and prayers on behalf of the needy, the suffering, the oppressed in your area or somewhere in the world.
Reach out to your community.
BE community.
Love others,
until it hurts.
“At the end of life we will not be judged by how many diplomas we have received, how much money we have made, how many great things we have done.
We will be judged by
“I was hungry, and you gave me something to eat, I was naked and you clothed me. I was homeless,
and you took me in.
Mother Theresa
THIS POST is dedicated to the 'community' that has set themselves up around us in order to make our transition tolerable.
For those who have prayed, carried our financial burdens, given comfort and encouragement, given belongings, extended resources and time, treated to a cup of coffee, arranged sleepovers and play-dates, listened to our complaints, pointed us to Jesus!
Thank you!
