Here’s our second installment of Ask the Woods Wednesday!
“What seems weird now when you visit America?”
Matt’s response:
When we first arrived in Medan I was shocked by the chaos. It seemed like there were no rules. Food being sold wherever anyone could set up a stand. Traffic moving according to a mysterious rythm. And it was dirty. Now that we have made this city our home I have grown to understand it all better and to love it. When we are back in the States it's shockingly clean and orderly. It seems sterile and while it makes some things easier it does seem strange and I often long for the chaos of the streets of Medan.
Kali’s response:
When I am in America, I am always surprised by not hearing the call to prayer 5 times a day. In Medan, it is broadcast from every mosque in the city. We have 3 within walking distance of our house, so it gets pretty loud. It has become embedded in the background of our every day life. When we are the States it seems quiet.
Connected to Islamic culture, I’m always very aware of the lack of clothes people wear in the States. We have become accustomed to seeing girls and women dress in very modest clothes despite the heat, humidity and lack of appropriate air conditioning. Even bathing suits are long sleeved and often accompanied by leggings.
Laurel’s response:
All the people with white skin and not having to speak Indonesian (such as: Permisi=excuse me, terima kasih=thank you, sama-sama= you’re welcome, and maaf=I’m sorry.)
This is Kali’s commentary on Laurel’s response: While there are quite a few bule (white people) living in Medan, we don’t see them often when we are out and about. If we see a bule at the store, we do a double take. Unless we are intentionally meeting up with friends we are not likely to see anyone with white skin.