A taste of the good life
Americans have a funny list of idoms that are commonly used in our culture. For instance, we would say "bending over backwards", when someone is willing to do whatever is takes for the benefit of another or "you're of the hook" when you no longer need to deal with a tough situation.
Here in Africa, there are also a fair share of idioms that are relative to their particular culture. But one of my favorite correlations between both cultures came straight from the lips of my good friend and translator, Mutsa. Now, Mutsa is a hardworking man who moved from Zimbabwe to help provide a better life for his family. He is a loving husband and a father of 4 wonderful children -- Percy, Prince, Princess, & Peacemore. His wife, Bridget, is one of the head teachers of Impact Kids, overseeing the 4-6 year old class. Seriously, they are just awesome people.
Anyways, one day we were heading back to the preschool from a day out in the local squatter camp doing some shack to shack ministry. It was getting close to dinner time, so everyone was rightfully hungry. Now, where an American would normally say, "I'm so hungry, I could eat a horse," Mutsa decided to share with us a taste of the African way. Mutsa exclaimed, "I am hungrier than two dogs who haven't eaten in two days." We were utterly confused for a moment and then busted out laughing. It truly amazes me the impact culture has on you. Things that seem normal in one place are absolutely absurd in another. It is a pleasure getting to learn from such wise, humble servants who are willing to work with us in our funny ways as we try and learn theirs!
TIA---This Is Africa.
Walk in Him,
-Katie
Here in Africa, there are also a fair share of idioms that are relative to their particular culture. But one of my favorite correlations between both cultures came straight from the lips of my good friend and translator, Mutsa. Now, Mutsa is a hardworking man who moved from Zimbabwe to help provide a better life for his family. He is a loving husband and a father of 4 wonderful children -- Percy, Prince, Princess, & Peacemore. His wife, Bridget, is one of the head teachers of Impact Kids, overseeing the 4-6 year old class. Seriously, they are just awesome people.
Anyways, one day we were heading back to the preschool from a day out in the local squatter camp doing some shack to shack ministry. It was getting close to dinner time, so everyone was rightfully hungry. Now, where an American would normally say, "I'm so hungry, I could eat a horse," Mutsa decided to share with us a taste of the African way. Mutsa exclaimed, "I am hungrier than two dogs who haven't eaten in two days." We were utterly confused for a moment and then busted out laughing. It truly amazes me the impact culture has on you. Things that seem normal in one place are absolutely absurd in another. It is a pleasure getting to learn from such wise, humble servants who are willing to work with us in our funny ways as we try and learn theirs!
Walk in Him,
-Katie
