You don't have to leave the country for culture shock.

I spent a couple of weeks in Springfield and now I am in Louisiana. I have learned that you do not have to leave the country to get culture shock. Just being on the Bible belt is enough. It is funny that we forget sometimes. How even though we are all part of the same country we have such different expectations. Such as in the North if you say "sir" or "maam" it is disrespectful where in the South it is expected. Who would have thought that you could experience a different culture when going such a short distance. That said I am counting down and have about 4 and a half weeks along with a miracle from God before going back to Africa!

Adjusting to the USA

It is funny, I have been back in the states for almost a month. However even though I grew up here I find it very odd when very "American" things happen. I have to think twice when I walk up to a gentleman even one I might have known for a very long time. In Africa, I would shake their hand no matter how well I know them. Here in the states I might give them a hug. So in my mind I find myself arguing with myself "what am I supposed to do?" Other things such as the number of choices of things in stores seems outrageous! One thing that I still do not completely understand is the fact that meetings here can last only a half hour and everybody be happy with what has gone on. In Africa the meetings last for 2 hours for a short visit and you know you are ready to leave when people offer you tea. Another thing that I hope to adjust to, however I doubt I will is it is COLD everywhere I go. You would think that I have spent more of my life in Africa then in the US. It is funny how quickly you can fall in love with a place you have lived in for such a short amount of time. I am enjoying time with friends and family and getting some extra time to spend with God which is always so revitalizing. I am also learning how much I have changed as I interact with people I have known for most of my life. The most valuable thing that I believe I learned this year is that JESUS is my PRICELESS TREASURE and I am HIS!!!!