Ukrainians are like watermelon; Americans are like peaches.
Yep, we are now officially in Ukraine. I apologize for the delay in posting a blog. We first arrived in Ukraine on March 29 – the delay is due to the lack of internet connection and the fact that we have hit the ground running.
The Holy Banditz are working in the capital of Kyiv, Ukraine throughout the month of April. Our contact, Brian Welch, a native to the U.S. contrasted the difference between Ukrainians and Americans by comparing them to fruit.
The other day Brian asked me what I thought of Ukraine thus far. That is a very common question on the race, as most people are very proud of their country and their town.
I responded, “I love this place. It is more amazing than I anticipated.” Apparently we just missed winter – spring is in bloom here! I also noted that many of the people here appear to be a hard shell on the outside. Most common clothing colors are black, brown and gray. People wear very bleak and dull colors. People also keep a fairly stern face. BUT, I have noticed that once a Ukrainian person opens up there is tons of color and flair and joy. Even a smile can break someone’s hard shell. Many of the shop/market workers love it when we attempt to speak Ukrainian or Russian. “Spaceba!” – Thank you!
Brian agreed with my observation, but he was able to turn it into a much easier visual. Americans are like peaches. We appear to be “peachy” on the outside, everything is always okay. When asked how we are we most often answer, “I’m fine.” The inside is slightly soft, but then you find the pit at the core of the peach. The pit is hidden deep within the peach. As Americans we hold a lot of things in the “pit” – we don’t want people seeing our junk.
Ukrainians are like watermelon. Their shell is hard and tough, but once you cut past the rind you find that the middle is all very similiar. It is a juicy center. There are still a few seeds spread out throughout the watermelon, but they are more willing to let you into the hard places. They already know they have your trust so you are more welcome to explore their hearts.
The Ukrainian people are amazing! We have been a part of several English Clubs at some of the universities here in Kyiv. We also made a quick overnight trip to a city about 2 hours away to encourage and speak at at young adult youth group. We are also helping plan an Easter event on April 16 – FYI: Ukrainian Easter is April 19, a week after Western Easter.
We love it here and our hearts are filled with expectancy of what the Lord is going to do!
