As we continue to build our lives here in Spain we are continually learning the values and ways this culture works. I find it fascinating seeing how every culture works differently while core values remain the same.
How do you meet your neighbours?
In Spain, you could introduce yourself by going door to door like in North America (maybe with a gift or fresh baking), but more often then not people just don't do that here. It can be seen as rude or pushy to engage strangers, even if there neighbours. While Spaniards live closer to one another (everything is closer here) they actually can seem more distant.. at least in the beginning. A Spaniard shared with us that it is quite normal to be completely ignored while walking down your own street for a long time even after you have arrived in the community.
Building a level of trust
We have hear it explained like this: There will come a day when you are in the bakery down the street and while having a significant conversation with your baker about his family, a neighbour enters the shop and sees you having this conversation. Observing that a small trust has been building between one well known and respected from their community can go a far way here. It can seem like overnight when the next time you walk down the street people yell greetings to you and stop and talk instead of sweeping you by unnoticed. Building trust is an essential first step to even being able to begin friendships here. While this means the process can be very slow and you must be very intentional and patient never knowing when those breakthroughs will happen, the friendships that come with it are rich and long lived.
Spaniards are social, VERY social and FRIENDLY yet at first can seem cold and rude. We can get mad, impatient or offended often feeling like they are so different, but as our understanding and experiences grow I am just more in awe of how God has made people so complex in our relationships and yet amazingly simple as our basic needs and desires remain the same. To be loved and accepted.
I am also reminded of God's words about being 'always surrounded by a cloud of witnesses' and the need for all of us to be intentional in showing love and Christ in every moment, in every culture, never knowing how it will open people to Him.
