As I am preparing to go I have been reading several books that are helping with culture shock, missions work, helping people in poverty, how to depend on God, and spiritual growth.One book in particular is quite interesting... Foreign to Familiar by Sarah Lanier. This book is a guide to Understanding Hot- and Cold-Climate Cultures. If you have any people in your workplace, neighbors, church community, etc. who are from a different culture...READ THIS BOOK!!!
Key Points:
Hot Climate Culture- Relationship oriented
Cold Climate Culture- Task Oriented
Communication is so key in building relationships, so we can understand each other, build community, complete tasks, etc. (I'm sure you all know this) However; have you ever thought of the reason people communicate the way they do?
An example from her book:
A gal from Lebanon had worked in the United States for 8 years and had never really made any friends because she didn't understand their culture. They would ask her to lunch and she would politely refuse (because that's polite in her culture) they would say ok and leave without her. She had decided after a few times that they really didn't like her and were just asking to be nice. When really, in her culture its polite to refuse about 3 times before you say yes I'd like to go.
What a revelation she had when she finally understood the culture differences!!
I have a feeling that most of us aren't familiar with the communication ways of the people around us. Take time to understand each other and ask questions as to why people from different cultures do what they do. It shows respect when you are interested in their culture.
