We begin our month of ministry in the Ukraine on Monday. We will teach English for a week, then the next week help at a children’s camp, and then a week of teaching English again. I am excited, nervous, quite a few different emotions are active in me. Even more so now that I am writing. In this short time we have spent in the Ukraine so far, I have learned much about the people of Ukraine (and their food, it’s amazing and so are they). The people are some of the most hospitable people I have ever met, and I am truly grateful for my time here.
The people of Ukraine are a beautiful ethnicity. To those experiencing the culture of Ukraine for the first time, the people may seem quiet, short with words and wary of outsiders(Which is understandable, they gained their independence in 1991, not so long ago.) Some Americans are wary of foreigners and America has had their independence since 1776. But this has not been my experience with the people of Ukraine. Sure, the people of Ukraine keep noise level down in most public settings such as on city buses, at the shops and markets and at restaurants. This is not because they are quiet or short with words, but because they respect others space and privacy in public settings.
As for my personal experience with the people of Ukraine, it has been nothing short of amazing! The people are wonderful, and have done everything to make me feel welcome! The first night we arrived in Ukraine there was a traditional Ukrainian meal waiting for us, the following night we were invited to someone’s home for another amazing meal, we had someone drive us 6 hours round trip so they could show us a beautiful city they are proud of and we had two amazing tour guides show us this city. Today, we were invited to a church service and our Ukrainian brothers and sisters in Christ not only wanted to share their service with us, but wanted us to sing songs we sing in the states and tell a little about ourselves. Afterwards, two members of the church rode the bus with us, and paid our bus fare, to make sure we arrived home. I love these people!
If God ever gives you the opportunity to come to Ukraine, take it! Respect the cultural settings in public, but get to know the people. Break bread with the locals, ask questions, share your story. Most are very interested in you, and why you are here. The people of Ukraine are a fascinating , proud, hospitable and caring people. You will not regret taking the time to get to know them, and doing life in their shoes. As Anthony Bourdain said, “If I’m an advocate for anything, it’s to move. As far as you can, as much as you can. Across the ocean, or simply across the river. Walk in someone else’s shoes or at least eat their food. It’s a plus for everybody.” I have done so in the Ukraine and I am loving it.
