Words. Words have power. What you say can make or break a relationship, but what happens when words cannot always be used  fully. (?)  Many people in Laos do not know English.  If someone does know some English, it is very limited.  You may be able to imagine interesting situations this has, therefore, got me into (someone who is learning Lao- and whose Lao is still almost nonexistent).   For instance, I got lost while riding a ‘tuk-tuk’ (an open air bike of sorts) and was not able to tell the driver what had happened and where I needed to be. It has also created some misunderstandings about the mission and purpose of me coming to Laos.  Nevertheless, not always being able to communicate with others effectively has provided me with the time needed to sit back, listen, and intensely observe. Listening to others share their stories through body language, facial expressions, and tones in their voices is powerful and inspiring. For example, one worship service on Sundays lasts from 8:30- 11:30 AM. That is 3 straight hours of hearing nothing but Lao, for the most part (and not yet understanding a good chunk of it). Despite not being able to understand, it has become quite clear to me how strong their faith is, they have a powerful way of sharing the word of God,  they care about each other, and want to get to know me.  Likewise, the pastor’s wife knows no English but she continues to grace me with love. She is always checking to see that I have eaten, went and bought me a laundry basket and a couple other items, and calls me part of her family. Words don’t always have to define a person’s thoughts or actions. There are many other ways to communicate.

Likewise, I began teaching English at a primary school, Providence School, last week. Most students come from a lower class family and have not yet been exposed to any English.  The students know very little English, if any. What I teach them are basic words and sentences, and since they cannot sit still long enough to write or listen, I usually sing songs or play games with them too.   Some days another teacher translates for me, but she does not know much English herself,  other days I am on my own. Regardless of language barriers the students and I have begun to already form strong relationships. They are regularly coming up to me, asking me Lao questions (as if I can answer yet), or wanting to be held.

 

Love and understanding often prevail without words.