As we continue with social distancing by working from home, educating from home, shopping while wearing masks, and watching classic sporting events, movies and TV shows, I’ve been reminded of my experience living overseas - Culture Shock.
While no one has moved away to a foreign territory, we have entered foreign territory. I remember well moving my family to Northern Africa and the Middle East where we experienced the excitement of new challenges and a new culture in which we would live and work: from learning a new language to coaching basketball in a new country, learning new cultural traditions, enjoying food and festivities and meeting new friends. Like anything new, they created adrenaline, enthusiasm, and optimism, but just for a while.
It hit me about eight months in - Culture Shock. We experienced homesickness, disorientation, isolation, sadness, hyper irritability, and excessive critical reactions. Once we became aware of the battle we were in and the phases in which it occurred, we were able to respond. Like my family during that time, you may be entering into or experiencing culture shock. The culture you knew has changed, and the culture you’re in now is losing its charm…staying at home with your family all day long, Zoom meetings, no school, online overload, and TV binges. While these are great things, expect a day or days that will just irritate you.
What can you do? Name it! Be honest about it! There are days and times we need to simply call it out for what it is. It’s okay to say, “I don’t like this” or “I’m tired of this.” When we can be honest and talk about the situation out loud to ourselves and to family or a friend, we will find our way back to the hope and joy we began with.
Practice the words of the Psalmist:
I cry aloud to God, aloud to God, and He will hear me. Psalm 77:1
Be glad in the Lord, and rejoice, O righteous, and shout for joy, all you upright in heart! Psalm 32:11
