Living in a new country and culture has been a wonderful learning experience for me thus far. An important lesson that I have gathered since my placement in Messica, Mozambique, has been learning to value differing perspectives. While here, I have been involved in many conversations about American culture and how it compares to Mozambican culture. My neighbors have often asked me why I do things a certain way, or why I choose to attend a school or work before I am married. This often sparks revealing discussions that lead to an exploration of each others’ values. While many opinions here differ from my own, I enjoy hearing them because they challenge my worldview and allow me to see life from a different angle.
I meet people every day here who are as curious to learn about the daily life in the U.S. as I am to learn about life in Mozambique. We reach the conclusion that these matters often can’t be generalized. Much like the United States, everyone here lives in his or her unique way and establishes his or her own path. While building a family is more heavily emphasized in this culture, careers are sought after once a family is estabished. My neighbors asked me in beginning of my time here if I was married, if I had kids, and why not.
