It is quite common for men to yell out comments to a woman, that American men say in a very sexual way and is honestly quite disgusting. Here in South Africa, although rape is very high just as it is in America, the men typically mean nothing sexual or dirty by the comments. Zulu men are taught to respect and appreciate a woman's beauty and to let her know so. Additionally, South Africa is not NEARLY as obsessed with the female body as America is. It's quite common to see postcards here of bare breasted women and men don't drool over it...it's perfectly normal to see things like that here.
Things here are also quite communal here as opposed to being so individual and self-centered in America. This brings a smile to my face, but also gets a little uncomfortable for me as I've been indoctrinated to the American idea of having that "personal bubble." It's perfectly normal here for complete strangers to get right into your face and begin talking to you, and you're rude if you give the typical American response of backing away.
When someone dies in the family, family members and friends move on much more quickly, because the entire neighborhood is there to support the person. There is no concept of therapy or counseling, which is hard for me to believe as I am a psychology major, to help people move on from trauma, because the Zulu culture is so communal and helpful to each other. Oh America and our individualistic ideals...how sad you make me.
Just as a few other tidbits that I learned today, no hats can be worn inside houses, you NEVER address adults by their first names-only as mama and baba, eye contact when talking to someone is actually considered disrespectful-the exact opposite of America!! AMAZING!! I am loving learning this stuff right now! Cousins are actually considered your brothers and sisters, family is SO important here...another thing that America lacks.
That's it for now! Update again when I can, and wish me luck for my 1 month home stay tomorrow (so scared!!!). I have a 14, 10, and 5 year old host sisters and brother which I'm so excited for! And I have both parents, which many of the other students only have a mom. Interesting.
3 comments:
Angela Dear! I have been reading your blog daily and am so excited to hear about all your adventures. You, without a doubt, are embarking on a wonderful once in a life time experience. I hope your host family turns out to be exactly what you had hoped for. Best of luck with everything, keep writing when you can. Much Luv!
Dear Angie,
Your Dad just called me and said he had received your e-mail, which I am looking at now, I am impressed! I hope all goes well with the family you will be living with. I imagine the first couple of days will be a bit uncomfortable for "both" you and the family; try to relax and enjoy this new experience, be yourself, and I am positive everything will go well for all of you.
Love, Mom
Hi Angie,
Your dad was kind enough to share your site with me. It sounds like you are having some very interesting experiences. I'm enjoying reading about the difference in culture. I wish you all the best with your new adventures with your host family. I am excited to hear more about the country. Take care,
Kim(I work with your dad)
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