Assimilate

The goals of Peace Corp include the exchange of cultures.  We get to learn about Thai culture and share our American culture.  I have seen several graphs that predict the curve of becoming comfortable in a new culture.  I can share American culture, but the Thais can take and/or leave whatever they want.  If I am going to survive here, I need to adapt to this culture and that requires change.  

At first, everything was new and interesting.  I was thrilled to ride my bike past huge, green rice paddies every day.  I liked the unmanicured landscape, all the different kinds of houses, the ornate temples, the gigantic Buddha images and the interesting food. Then, it all got a bit overwhelming as there was always something new.  It took a while to get a little comfortable in training.  Of course once that happened, it was time to move again to the site we would be at for 2 years.  Another cycle of newness, not quite as extensive as the first.  We had wonderful training about the culture and in the language and our experience with host families and the villages where we lived in Singburi.  But nothing really prepares you for the experience of being in a small, remote Thai village with a host family who does not speak English, not sufficient language to communicate and no one to interpret.  I have found myself angry, expecting the worst, uncertain of being able to do this.  All of which are predictable responses to adapting.  Studies show that people adapt the most easily when they are welcomed by the native people and when they have some support from others trying to adapt.  Mostly, I have both.  The other Peace Corp Volunteers are a great resource for venting and sharing some of the frustrations and joys of being here.  One of the schools I will be working in and the District English Teacher Supervisor totally support me and have gone out of their way to give me a wonderful welcome with a lot of kindness and help.  I think the other school will be supportive too once we get started.  I have not had the same level of support from my host family here.  They have provided what I need and have been very attentive and kind.  However, they are not as invested in me being here as I am not providing any service to them.  So, I find myself alternating between boredom, fear, frustration and excitement, anticipation, having fun.  One study said the process is two steps forward and one step back and it has felt like that.  This study concludes that you have to eventually change to adapt to the new culture and that process results in a more complete person with more choices because of the adaptation and willingness to change. One Peace Corp slogan is that this is the hardest job you will ever love.  I feel that a little bit already.  One advantage to being a senior volunteer is that I have experience with needing to change and although I have never loved the process, I have never regretted the experience. 

So I am resolved to be open minded and try to observe and imitate when I can, ask questions and participate when I am invited.