yesterday evening, i decided to be studious alongside my brother, Brett, who quietly sat next to me doing his Calculus. My choice of reading was my “Intercultural Communication” book. I skimmed Chapters 6-7, the first being on language and culture, and the latter being an analysis of how non-verbal symbols, expressions, chronemics, vocal tone, etc. tend to illustrate a certain culture. One of the comparisons that are made is between monochronic and polychronic cultures. Polychronic cultures live with people and relationships at the center of their priorities and values. America would be monochronic, viewing time commitments (deadlines, schedules) as more important than human interactions. Ironically enough, I came across the following quote about the African culture, and where they fall in this spectrum–and was quite surprised to discover what a shock I am going to have when I get to Uganda and Kenya in January!
“Africans are yet another culture that takes great stock in the activity that is occuring at the moment and emphasize people more than schedules…”Time for Africans is defined by events rather than the clock or calendar.” “For Africans, the person they are with is more important than the one who is out of sight.” This leads, of course, to a lifestyle that to outsiders appears to be spontaneous and unstructured.” (Samaovar, Porter & McDaniel, p. 224)
Those of you who know me well enough probably see why reading this quote made me laugh out loud. Emily? Spontaneous? No way!! I think this trip will be more about the Africans serving me by teaching me the important lessons of life, than about me going to serve them. There will be no clock, calendar, deadline or To-Do list to cling to; but simply the joy, love and fun of building together with another culture without the constraint of “time.” This is going to be exciting.