In general, Mongolians are much better at taking a deep breath and relaxing than we stressed-out Americans are, so I am learing to react more like the people around me, now!
I have also been trying to learn THE Mongolian language, which is one of the most important things to do in order to integrate into a new culture. Think about if you have ever been in a situation where you did not understand what people were saying. Was it scary? Stressful? Did you try to communicate anyway? That is what I feel like every day in Mongolia! When I first came here, I could not speak a single word of Mongolian. It meant that when I tried to take a taxi, order at a restaurant, or ask for directions, I was unable to do so! This was very frustrating for me, so I began to take Mongolian lessons. My teacher is a wonderful woman name Tsermaa, and I meet with her twice a week to learn new words, practice speaking, and, most importantly, to ask her all my many questions! She has certainly helped me integrate into Mongolian culture in a very valuable way.
