Cultural differences

So, we've been trying to have a meeting just to start the process of working out what we're going to do and when. It's a testimony to the difference in approach of two different cultures that we have yet to actually meet, yet also a testimony to the possibilities of adaptability for all involved that I'm not jumping out of my skull at people just yet, and we have a tentative schedule in hand. Woo-hoo!

Since I come from more of a Northern European mindset (my dad insists that you're late if you're not there a half hour ahead of time), navigating the nuances of an event-oriented culture and not losing it has been ... interesting. I like to have information in hand so I can make decisions and improvise based on what I know, but my experience with Haiti has been of just going with whatever presents itself at the moment. It's really forced me to value the process (and the people involved) rather than just getting there, and to let go of what I think is needed. It's also given me great stories that will someday end up in a book (like how we crossed the border from the Dominican Republic into Haiti). Life's really more interesting this way, even if it causes heart palpatations!

Off to try and schedule that meeting...