Culture Shock

When I first arrived in Uganda, there was a lot going on: vaccines, COVID tests, immigration & customs, etc. Everything was new and exciting and there were plenty of things to distract me from the differences of the life I was used to in the US and the challenges of being in a developing country. We have mattresses to sleep on, electricity, running water, and three meals per day prepared for us.

A few days after settling in is when the shock and stress of being in a different country began to set in. Having to flick tiny ants off the mattresses, floors and walls constantly; the electricity randomly going out at any time, the water being shut off without warning with no idea of when it would be back on, and rice as part of every meal began to get to me a little bit. Not to mention missing friends and family and having no way to talk with them.

I actually began to find myself grumbling and really missing the US and wishing I was there. This was a huge surprise to me, as I had been looking forward to outreach, traveling internationally, and becoming immersed in a different culture. But in remembering again to be thankful, talking and praying with team members, and reading the Bible, I began to see stress loosen and peace return. I was reminded of James 1:2-3, which says, “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.”

I had not been joyful. There were a few times I wished I could actually turn around and go back to the states. I felt disconnected from the Lord and my purpose here. But by the encouragement of my husband and the rest of the outreach team, I learned that others were having a hard time too. AND I realized that there is much for me to learn and do while here - God knows it - and He also knows what I need to learn and grow, better than I do. I didn’t expect to struggle this much - it was quite humbling. Yet I truly am thankful for the struggles, because I am beginning to see the fruits of these small trials.

I’m thrilled to be here now. Yes, I miss hot showers in the morning, but the cold ones sure feel great after being in the hot African sun! I’ve learned not to expect the electricity. We don’t need it much during the day and I keep my flashlight near at night. Finally, having limited connectivity to loved ones far away has made me more present with the team and has increased the depth of my relationships here. We’ve grown together and had such joy in ministry and downtime. I can’t wait to see what God does next!