Its been difficult yet awesome learning how to be a part of a new culture. We are in North Africa now and I knew in my mind how important it would be to respect how the people live and try to do the same. For some reason this passion of learning how to assimilate has laid heavy on my heart and I just want to share a few of the things I’ve learned and adjusted to!
First, the dress: every day we wear full length pants or a skirt and a long-sleeved shirt. Women also cover their “behinds” so I wear a shirt tied around my waist to cover all that’s goin on back there. Many women also wear the hijab because showing hair is seen as disrespectful. It’s also a symbol of religious affiliation though, therefore, we don’t wear one. It’s amazing to see how little of a distraction there is from people’s dress.
Next, man-woman dynamic: the most dramatic difference is that women don’t make eye contact with men…which is obviously very difficult for the mid-westerner in me, always wanting to smile and greet anyone who passes. In addition, exchanging with a man is seen as inappropriate. Therefore, we stick to conversing and getting to know only women. In fact there’s an unsaid “women’s club” that exists where every woman you see is part of this invisible team. If you ever need something you can count on any nearby woman to help you out and can fully trust in her. Likewise there exists a “men’s club”. They too are on their own invisible team so it can often come across as very intimidating walking the streets as a woman. It is guaranteed that you will walk past men sitting and chatting along the sides of the streets or in cafes and simply staring at you as you walk by (often accompanied by cat calling). Not my favorite part, but it gives huge insight into the culture and tugs on my heart for the women who live here everyday.
Third, meal and timing: people here typically get going around 11am!!! And stay out until around midnight. People don’t want to be outside sweating all day in the sun so most people start hanging out outside around 7pm! Our first few nights here we sat awake at night wondering why we heard car horns honking and people bustling into the late hours…that’s when we realized we needed to adjust our schedule! Food is also shifted, eating when you wake up, lunch around 2, an additional meal around 5 consisting of tea and croissants, and then dinner around 9. Eating together off of the same platter is extremely common and seen as a way for spiritual energy to be shared. In addition, you primarily eat with your hands. And with your right hand also (since the left hand is seen as unclean (aka the left handles the bathroom business)). Hot sweet mint tea, warm breads, melons, and couscous are some of the common staples. It’s been super fun for me learning what types of foods are more affordable compared to Spain and even home, as well as learning what to eat for each meal!
Overall, my favorite piece of the culture is their importance on community. The family is extremely important here, as are eating meals together and sharing with others. We have been invited to people’s homes numerous times after just meeting them for the first time! They are quick to serve and share and is probably the place I’m getting to see our Father’s heart the most. The way people are so quick to invite you into their lives and into their homes shows how inviting and servant-like our Father is. I love how Jesus may not be worshipped here but His character shines through these people’s hearts.
And it’s these revelations God is showing me that drive me to share the pure love I get to experience in Him. And that’s the heart of the matter, there are so many differences but we are all made in His image. And in this culture I’m able to see one more piece of that image!
