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Dealing With Culture Shock |
| culture shock |
:a sense of confusion and uncertainty, sometimes with feelings of anxiety, that may affect people exposed to an alien culture or environment without adequate preparation. Merriam-Websters Dictionary |
| Not every person goes through culture shock. Once in Haiti, you are going to be overwhelmed with sights and smells that you can't imagine. Haiti is one of the poorest countries in the world. You will see sick people, hungry people, poor people. You will see trash and sewer in the streets. The houses are small, dirty. The people all speak a different language from you. Nothing will look familiar. Your mind will be trying to make sense of all of these things. You may feel a sense of hopelessness.
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If you are feeling this way, talk about it. Discuss what you are seeing. Journal! Remember, that while the needs of the Haitian people are great, their greatest need is to know Jesus. You can show Jesus to everyone you meet by your actions, by your love. Don't be afraid to dive into the culture. Try to speak the language. Don't be afraid to be laughed at. Usually on a short term trip, the feelings of culture stress start to lessen after a few days. Spend time in the Word and in talking to God.
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