Journal Entry #8

[bethany marcelle]

I think understanding a culture may be more important that understanding the language. Over half of communication is body language and body language changes based on culture. Additionally, dressing the part and acting the part is half the battle. If you know a language but dress differently, don't pick up on social norms, and do what is taboo your mastering of the language is of little value to you other than to mop up your social mess. However, in understanding a culture and engaging with that culture in a respectful manner even if you have very little in the way of verbal ability to communicate your respect, sincerity and good will can be communicated without words. It reminds me of Hudson Taylor the first foreign missionary to China to adopt the native dress, hair color and hair style. This allowed for him to connect to the Chinese people in a way foreigners fluent in Chinese never could. When I was in India last I couldn't speak much Kannada at all but through appropriate body language and dressing in the clothing I was able to connect with a lot of people =)