It appears that Drama follows me wherever I go. Apparently there are a few cultural unexceptable things to do here that I didn't know about. I won't go into details, mostly to keep you in suspense, but I've upset quite a few people in the last few days. I'm getting tired of saying sorry and trying to explain in my limited Creole that I didn't know it was not acceptable. Sometimes the problems come from misunderstandings because I think I'm saying one thing in Creole and it is interpretted very differently. I'm discovering that Haitians are a very sensitive group. Hopefully I can learn from my mistakes and stop upsetting others.
Other than that things are going well. I've spent the last two days preparing for workshops that I will be giving next week for the teachers of Coram Deo. It' s all very overwhelming being in charge of a school. There is much to do before school begins. Coram Deo's jeep has seen better days and is in the garage almost daily. Karen is very frustrated and is concerned that mechanics are lying to her. I think it's just getting old and that's normal. So anyway, it's difficult to go out and get things done. All in good time I'm sure.
This afternoon I promised the boys, Manu and Jacob (who live at the house) that we'd go watch a soccer game. Samuel, JeanEddy and Cadeau (all from the house) are part of a soccer team and their team plays tonight. I'm looking forward to it.
3 comments:
Hi Kim, it sounds you have a great but also a difficult time there in Haiti. But you are not so long in Haiti, we're pretty sure that after some time you know everything about the ins and outs of the cultural differences. It takes time to learn and you will. And then you'll be talking Creole more fluently than the original inhabitants! :) You'll look back and laugh about the things you experienced. You can do it!!
We're enjoying your weblog a lot. Good luck on your workshop!
regards Patrick & Alinda
Oh Kimbit,
You do have a way of stirring things up. : ) Don't keep us in suspense though. What could you have said that was so terrible??
I wouldn't let it bother you too much. Surely they can understand that you are trying your best and that there will inevitably some confusion and misunderstanding. It's all part of the process. Glad to hear that for the most part you're doing well. I'd love to see pictures on your site if you have the means to do that.
Love Amy
Hey Kim
I can't believe that you wouldn't tell us what you did/said that upset all those people! You need to explain yourself, young lady!
But I'm sure it will be something to laugh about in the future, but for now just hang in there. We'll keep praying.
Luv Michelle
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