For greater clarity of thoughts, and sensitivity to each other-- and others.
Mr. Howard Merrell raise the issue: "...when we defend our way, because it makes us more comfortable we are wrong."
This was in regards to my previous statement that it seems to indicate that how one views time is a purely personal matter. I speak of my cultural view of time using the pronouns "I" "my" and "my own." I imply that those who manage their time more by the clock do it to further their own goals.
My reply is that of a "yes, I agree." I was pointing out that time is running the show too much in the world; whether it be because of economical pressures or academic pursuit, time is dictating it. Those who run their lives by the clock do so out of necessity. They have no choice over it. The world's business is run by time. My point being there is a lot of "stuff" to do.
And that is why vacations are sought after: to get away from the "rush" of life and to have personal time alone. Whether we like it or not time's telling us what to do. But at least here in the islands time is laid back. There is no rush. No hectic schedule to follow.
But then you point out to me something of your culture. You said that in the USA it is culturally inappropriate for me to make someone wait for an appointment. I might be costing them money. It seem to indicate that the other person has other priorities to attend and the meeting with you is just one in many. Where is the value of a person then? in the appointment?
Anyways, I like how Mr. and Mrs. Plaxton put it (found in the comment):
"Happiness, thanks for your continued insights into Micronesian culture and thinking. We need more of this - from the Micronesian side AND from the insane, time-and-event oriented, Western side, if we are ever to more fully love and appreciate each other. The best ground is probably somewhere in between - I wonder why that is so hard to find? "
Melody P.
BTW, of the 40+ islands in Chuuk only one island, Weno, has electricity and other modern commodities. That's roughly 2 out of 10 percent of the population in Chuuk.
Friday, February 22, 2008
My response
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4 comments:
"BTW, of the 40+ islands in Chuuk only one island, Weno, has electricity and other modern commodities."
And on Weno the electricity off about as much as it is on. :-)
Some of the questions that come to my mind have to do with choices. (Americans value the freedom to choose pretty highly -- so it is no surprise that I would think in this way.) If people could choose, what would their cultural and lifestyle preferences be? What would the ideal Micronesian life look like? (I sense a lot of frustration among the emerging generation of Micronesian leaders with the way that things are. And my sense is that you all are trying to figure out respectful ways of dealing with that frustration.)
I have a long list of things that I am trying to change in my primary culture. Are there things about Micronesian culture that Micronesians would like to change? Is the list of desired change different for Chuukese Christians than it is for non-Christians?
What unique contributions do you think God might be calling Micronesia to make to the world as a whole?
Sorry -- I am not trying to make it sound like I am giving a test. I am just thinking out-loud. Perhaps some other Micronesians would make comments, too. I know that you are reading Happiness' blog!
You ask, "It seem to indicate that the other person has other priorities to attend and the meeting with you is just one in many. Where is the value of a person then? in the appointment?"
I value the other person by respecting--to the extent I am able--his priorities.
On Lingenfelter's little test I came out more event oriented than the average Westerner, but when I am dealing with a person who places a higher premium on time, I need to respect that. When I am working with someone who values relationship almost to the exclusion of the clock, I need to respect that.
Defending my way is just about always inappropriate. (Philippians 2:3-5)
I'm praying for you, Happiness. I figure that you will be part of that force of Biblical thinkers who will guide your culture in these important years to come. It's a privilege to engage with you.
Just curious: The figures you give related to electrification, does that include the use of personal generators and other devices--i.e. solar, wind, etc. or do those figures only reflect public utilities?
Thanks for the conversation.
With global multi-culturalism moving in everywhere one must also consider cultural frames. Some things in the islands can still be done in an "island" way while other things (schools, western style government for example)are imports and won't work when done in a purely island way. Most people understand that some things must be approached in a Western way and others in an island way. The problems come when different people or groups approach the same situation from a different cultural perspective. As the cultures crash into each other we need to be aware of what is going on and be ready to adapt and learn from each other.
"As the cultures crash into each other we need to be aware of what is going on and be ready to adapt and learn from each other."
Thanks, Happiness and David for your willingness to adapt to, and teach an old small-town preacher.
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