Dealing with Culture Shock

Much research has been done on the topic of "culture shock"... everyone has experienced culture shock at one point or another. For me it's a very interesting thing since I'm dealing with it on a daily basis. I've been researching the topic online, and it has helped me figure out where I am in the process... some would think after four months that I'd be done, but that's definitely not the case for me!!!

I personally toggle between stage 2 and stage 3 every day (Mark, on the other hand, goes between 3 and 4). The following is a short, very simplistic review of the culture shock stages:

Stage 1
During the first stage, foreign visitors often feel excited. The new country is interesting, the people are friendly and helpful, and the future looks promising.
Stage 2
Problems! School, language, shopping — everything is difficult. Things that were simple back home require more effort in the new country. It seems hard to make friends, and at this point, foreign visitors may begin to believe that the local people are unfriendly. Homesickness begins, and along with it complaints about the new country. This is the stage we hear referred to as "culture shock."
Stage 3
Recovery. The foreign visitor begins to use the language more fluently, so communication with locals becomes easier. Customs and traditions become clearer, and slowly the situation passes from impossible to hopeful. Minor misunderstandings which were stressful in stage 2 become manageable.
Stage 4
Stability. Eventually foreign visitors begin to feel more at home in the new country. What they do not like about their new country no longer makes them so dissatisfied and unhappy. Life has settled down, and they are now able to find humor in the situations in which they find themselves.

If you would remember to pray for us as we re-enter into the US this Friday, that would be awesome! Thanks for your prayers and support!