We are once more in southern America. We have now been here one week. In many ways, life in the northern hemisphere has been the same as it was in South America. In other ways, it is quite different.
Life is faster here. Now, that's not necessarily a criticism; it's more an observation. Everything seems faster. Meals are consumed more quickly. People drive more quickly. People seem to want to do everything more quickly. Why, I would not be surprised if the speed of light was faster. Okay, maybe that's too much. But I hope you get my point.
If there is a criticism about the high velocity living of North Americans in Southern America, it's the stark reality that this kind of living may be good for business, but bad for relationships. We have even adopted a philosophy of quality time, thinking that if we pack more personal attention into five or ten minutes, we have had some kind of significant relationship. It bleeds over into everything we do: doctor's visits, sermons, time with children--everything. The result? We hardly know one another!
I purpose in my heart to avoid high velocity living. Life is simply too good not to enjoy the ride!
Kevin, in southern America
6 comments:
I'm working in Argentina as a missionary. Where are you? Everywhere seems so laid back here!
Hey, Martin,
I was in Peru for around 20 years. We just got back to the states, as I said, a week ago; we will assume a new ministry here in south Mississippi.
Blessings on your ministry,
Kevin
"southern america" is a kind of confusing term to those of us who live south of Mexico. To many folk outside the states "America" covers the whole thing from northern Canada to Tierra del Fuego (and even then I'm probably missing someone out!) Mississippi is more like the "southern states" or even "southern-north-america".... Have fun in your new ministry.
Hello, Hazel,
Yes, it could be misconstrued, given the fact that "America" is not just the United States. Now some may be shocked by that. Others will be equally shocked that Mexicans, for example, are North Americans. But I hope to have fun with the cultural misunderstanding that comes with the title, just as I had fun with it when it was Somewhere in South America.
As Eeyore of Winnie the Pooh said, "Thanks for noticing."
Blessings,
Kevin
Remember, you don't have an hour leeway in getting to places now. Be on time. We are praying for y'all!
Reverendo Lluvias
Doctor Lluvias! Good to hear from you. Yes, you have to be places early, not late, up this way. They are breaking me in right. I have a prayer breakfast in the morning. I'll be heading to the church at 7 which is a lot different than getting there for worship at 11:30!
Greet the saints for me,
KDS
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