Orientation comes to a close...

I have the unique experience of being a second time SALT program participant. From the get-go, I have intentionally tried to refrain from butting into conversations with "well when I was here last time..." or, "back when I was a SALTer in 2009...", so that I did not become 'that person' you don't want to get stuck at the lunch table with. I also felt as though somehow, I was cheating. Like I have all the answers and I have to keep my mouth shut during sessions and give the other folks a chance to answer. But, eventually, I was outed and the reaction wasn't so bad.. People have been very inquisitive about the little details that they might not ask in a group session. Maybe MCC should always throw in a "second time SALTer" as an undercover question-answerer. :)

I have been so blessed once again by this orientation in Akron. MCC does a wonderful job supporting their workers before, during, and after assignment. And once again, SALT orientation is combined with IVEP (international volunteer exchange program), which brings young people from around the world to live and work in the U.S. and Canada for a year. Last time, I was so intrigued by all the different cultures represented, but being  bit shyer then than I am now, I was too timid to join in the fun. This time around, I am really trying to soak it all in as much as possible. Last night, I stumbled into the IVEP group from Africa practicing for worship this morning. They couldn't find the music for one of their songs, and so they hummed a line for me. Next thing I knew, I was sitting at the piano bench, playing in the midst of beautiful singing, dancing, and beating of drums. The next few hours were filled with a similar scene, and I went to bed with my toes still tapping to the beat in my head.

Once thing I am struggling with here, is thinking that somehow, the SALTers are getting the better deal of the exchange. For the most part, we are all heading out into very warm, inviting cultures. Places where doors are left open, people sit out front of their houses and warmly smile at passer-bys. Where you can hug and give a kiss on the cheek to anyone, and where you don't have such a huge sense of personal belongings and boundaries. Here, by contrast, people can be very protective of their things, locking doors and hiding behind fences. We do not readily share what we are truly feeling, and we may find it strange if someone does. These are not necessarily bad traits,  This orientation is set up in such a way that the IVEPers can ease in to that culture shock by spending time with a bunch of like-minded, patient, and kind individuals, but I'm afraid the change will still be drastic. All I can do is hope that they encounter kind people and have a great year of growth and joy. I have come to love them all so much!

As I head out from this place soon, into the unknown, my prayer is that I will be used by God to do his will. I pray for the patience and strength to get through all of the changes that culture shock brings. Pray also for my co-SALTer Jon. We will be working side by side in this project, and neither of us quite know what to expect. That being said, I am very excited for the unknown, whatever it may be.  It is well with my soul.

Peace,
Annie