Normal is relative.
For some people it is normal to have an indoor bathroom.
For others it is normal to have a squatty outhouse. For some of us it is normal to be quiet and observe and for others it is normal to be outspoken and loud. Some of us find it normal to sleep on a mattress while others find a mat on the floor normal.
As I stood at our outdoor “sink” basin brushing my teeth in Moldovan winter, I looked around into the neighbors’ yards and our own and just thought how funny it was that this felt normal. I am brushing my teeth in public with well water just looking around like it is NORMAL.
It was quite freeing to realize that normal is subjective. I am who I am.
The World Race has taught me many things, but one big one is that people are so different in their customs, norms, and food preferences, but they are all the same in that God created them, wants them, and they all have the same hopes, fears, needs, and desires as us.
Nepali are fun, Indians desire love, Thai are giving, Khmer are joyful, Swazi are playful, South African are worshipful, Botswanan are grateful, Romanian are hopeful, Moldovian are funny, Guatemalan are hard workers, Nicaraguans are intentional, Americans are hospitable.
Any of these things can be said about any of these people, because individuals are different and it doesn’t matter what race they are. I have seen each of these qualities in each people group. So instead of generalizing, lets give credit where credit is due. God has created us all with his meaning of love in 2 Corinthians. We are all capable of love through His grace and mercy.
Normal is what you are used to, so I say continue redefining normal, because who wants to stay the same person in the same place doing the same thing? I don’t know about you, but I want to continue growing. Create a new normal.
Much Love,
Saraya
