Before moving back to Africa we read so much about the many ways African culture differs from Western culture, and one of these is the African emphasis on community. Part of community-building in Africa takes the form of talking. Africans spend a lot of time talking with one another in a chatty sort of way, with lots of tongue-in-cheek sorts of humor. Bartering for purchased goods is, at least in part, a social event, getting to know people and becoming known, making friends and being a friend.
We have found that the Ugandans we have interacted with love to talk, to joke around and make fun and light of things. Even when asking for a job or demanding a bribe, these folks just want to talk and turn it into a fun conversation. It's a game. All the recommendations to Americans who travel in Africa is to play this game. When a neighbor asks for your shirt, don't be rude and just say “no” - say, “when my shirt has a little brother, I'll give it to you”. That sort of thing. There aren't a lot of distractions and entertainment options here, so you make up for it by playing the game of talk.
Well I've been a bit nervous about learning to play this game, as I've never been too confident as a quick, witty, or eloquent speaker. I remember praying about this specific thing during our orientation back in the States. I really feel that God answered that prayer when I got my way out of a traffic fine by having a lengthy, light-hearted and honestly fun conversation with the group of police officers that pulled me over. I was carring some steel pipes on the back of my truck and was crossing the dam when one of the pipes slipped out on the roadway! I furiously pulled over, loaded the pipe, tied it down, and drove off the dam, but evidently wasn't quick enough to avoid being pulled over by the police. One of the officers filled out the citation while we talked, but by the time we had finished our conversation (which mostly involved them making fun of me for 'driving dangerously') they explained that since I was apologetic for my wrong-doing they would let me off with just a warning – but perhaps I would bring them a soda the next time I passed the bridge. :)
4 comments:
Fascinating to learn about the interactions. We better brush up on our witty repartee.
No way Phil. I'm confident in your ability to have witty conversations. You've been making fun of me for as long as I've known you anyways. Maybe you just have to get naked to relax before you talk to them...or is it picture them naked...either way would be an ice-breaker. Glad to hear you're settling in and learning the cultural ropes, it's always nice to feel at home.
So glad to see some more pictures and get an update, thanks for making time! We are glad you're beginning to settle in and know a little more of what to expect. Much love, Kate Jon and Graham
Oh my goodness! I wasn't so "skilled" (got myself a $300 speeding ticket the other day). Whoops! Charles, Holden and Katie and I send our love.
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