Latin Time

I'm finally coming around to writing this. How Latin of me..

The common phrase that we have when we go to kiss each other on the cheek during a greeting is "Como andas?", which is literally, "How are you walking?" That is to say, there is no sense of hurry even in how one is doing.

Actually in Argentina, time is a little bit more Western. I have yet to notice anyone more than maybe 10 minutes late to an appointment, such as church. At the same time, let's say everyone has arrived, nothing officially begins until 30 minutes later. Or an hour. Por ejemplo, we had a group meeting at el Refugio yesterday that was supposed to begin at 3. We arrived for set up around 2:45, were ready to go by about 3:15, but it didn't start until 4.

It's relaxing. And as a result, I find myself enjoying my long mornings (most of our events don't start until 9 or 10am.. so really 10 or 11). I've even started this wonderful routine of stretching and a small work out, prayer time, Bible time, reading time, and if there's a little bit to spare, I'll get on my computer. Monday is a bit different however, since it's my day off.

I think much about what it means to be on time. In the States, there is a sense that by being on time you are showing respect. Being late means you're not taking the event or job seriously (although I wonder about the whole, showing-up-on-time-but-not-having-your-work-done part). Here, it's a whole 'nother story. Whether you're on time or late, it's more important that you value the relationship--that you check up on things you talked about last time you were together or that when you do spend time together, it is quality time.

I guess I'm thankful that when I worked with youth in Colorado, I had to understand that they still valued time with me, even if they didn't always show up (or let me know they weren't going to show up). Such times prepared me to be aware of another Latin American truism, that you always say yes to coming somewhere or doing something. The idea is that whether you actually come or not, you have every intention of coming because you care about the person.

When we stop to think about that as citizens of the US of A, we might cringe. Wouldn't it be better if we just said that we weren't coming?!?

Possibly. But need I remind many of you on Facebook how often you say you'll come to an event, but actually do not. Mmhmm, you heard me!

In Holland, people are very honest with you. They aren't afraid to tell you that your hair doesn't look good today, or that you smell funny. These things have nothing to do with you, they would say, they are just a piece of your outer appearance. Really, they love who you are very much.

Presented with both extremes, brutal honesty and white lies, I wonder if we just have to let go of ourselves. How much less stressful life might be if making an appointment meant we didn't have to worry about taking care of last minute things before seeing someone. Just do them, and meet with the person eventually. How much do we take offense to little comments about our hair, when really it is just a small thing (and usually lasts only a day). Does this make sense?

As long as we love God and love others, we're on the right track. As long as we remember this story isn't about me...

The final remark on Latin time has to include siesta. Between about 1 and 3pm most of the shops (although it's different in the city center) aren't open. What's happening during this time? Only the most wonderful thing known to man--NAPS!! When was the last time you've had a good nap recently? I think it might be my spiritual gift, as it has been included in my near daily regimen for many years now (the couches at 4Cs knew me very well). I wish I could scientifically prove to you how much more we need to include naps in our lives, but you'll just have to take my word for it.

Or look it up for me to prove my point. It's up to you. Chau.