I just finished reading this excellent book by Sarah Lanier called FOREIGN to FAMILIAR, which explains the basic differences between 'hot-climate' and 'cold-climate' cultures. We are reading this book in advance of Quito, and it has given me a renewed appreciation for the differences we can expect to have to navigate while on our mission trip.
As an MK, and having had the recent experience of two previous trips to Quito, it would be easy for me to consider myself somewhat of an expert on what we can expect and what things we'll need to approach with a different mind-set. BUT I can honestly say that I still have many blind spots and could easily make assumptions that could be wrong and even harmful during our time in Ecuador.
Time will tell, but already we are thinking and praying about some concerns we have regarding our accomodations, wanting to honour and value the hospitality being extended to us, and also knowing we'll need at least some space to ourselves for some quiet and family time together. As North American 'cold-culture' types, we value independence, privacy, and not-being-a-burden. The culture we will be immersed in values almost the exact opposites! It has been an eye-opener to realize that we need to be ready to be taken care of, to go with the flow, and to be surrounded by people to a hugely greater degree than we are used to in our insular Canadian lifestyle. I think the success of our time there, and our enjoyment of it, will hinge largely on our willingness to go 'hot-climate', to embrace a way of life much different, and I'm sure at least for some of the time, much more uncomfortable.
Anyone interested in cross-cultural experience of any kind would do well to pick up this book - it's a quick read, packed with all kinds of great and thought-provoking information, and got me thinking more broadly as I applied the principles to psychology, personality types and even theology.
Check it out!
Very cool rob, looking forward to following your adventures!
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