Making Adjustments

So after being in Malaysia for a few days, there are obviously some indicators that the YAGMs are in a new corner of the world. Many of these are noticeable in that they are differences in routine. They make me grateful for what I had back home, but adjusting to differences create chances for little victories, times for learning, and times to celebrate. More importantly, these situations have surprised me in an interesting way. Instead of feeling a loss for what's different from the United States, there is a sense of gain and gratitude for what I do have. Here are just a few instances. Some are serious, some are fun, but all remind me that there's a lot of learning that will happen.

Drinking water - So in the United States, it's pretty much assumed you can turn on a faucet in the house and the water that comes out will be drinkable. Not so in Malaysia. Water usually has to be boiled or it has to come in a bottle. I realize that I've taken this for granted back home, but I'm also glad for the fairly reasonable means for getting clean water here. There are fairly easy ways to ensure that we don't get sick from just trying to quench thirst. Going through the little extra effort just reminds me of this.

Chilly Showers - So I was one of those people guilty of taking long, hot showers, but I think I've found a new love for cold showers. Hot showers mean that you don't really have a huge shock when you step in, but in a place as toasty as Malaysia, it's been fairly easy to get excited about no hot water. Frankly, it's quite refreshing.

Not having a clue what's on the menu - If I ordered a dish at home, I usually had a good idea what was on the menu and what I was going to get. Even if I went to a new restaurant and ordered something new, I could still read descriptions and have a fairly clear idea how my food would be prepared and what was in it. Thankfully, most menus have pictures, but ordering is still an adventure. However, ordering blindly has some perks. It means opening yourself up to new things and trusting the advice of your host. It's also a great way to learn about the person's tastes and start a conversation about their experiences. And in a country where towns are known for their dishes, there's quite a bit to discuss.

Not knowing the languages around you - I think I can honestly say I took for granted how much knowing the common language in the United States helped me navigate daily life. Knowledge is power, but it also means independence. Not knowing the language can put you in a vulnerable position. Many people know English, but you can't assume what level of knowledge they have not to mention that many signs are in Chinese and/or Malay. This often opens the door to connecting with other people in learning how to navigate in daily life. Fortunately, the YAGMs have lessons for learning basic Malay. We've had some humorous moments for sure and have certainly bonded over this. But I also think that I have more motivation now than any time I took a foreign language in school. Learning Malay will help to build relationships with others. It can feel like a bit of an obstacle, but the experience can be a gift.

If these situations are just seen as differences, a lot of what makes up accompaniment can be lost. Responding and reflecting can help me understand how I might have a place in my community and I look forward to seeing how this develops. But to put it simply, asking for help in a new place opens the door to a new relationship with someone.