Some lessons of Mozambique (and human nature)

Beira city-centre skyline

The following are tips we have learnt whilst living in Mozambique:

1. Men must always wear shoes (not flip flops) to church.

2. Always give and receive with your right hand.

3. Always reply to a request with the answer ‘yes’ even if you have no intention of doing it.

4. Offer any food you have if there are other people around.

5. Smiling goes a long, long way.

6. Make sure your thighs don’t show.

7. Beeping your car horn is a polite way of letting others know you are around. 

8. You're considered 'a youth' until you are 35 years old (a bit strange when life expectancy is 48...)

9.  Despite being a Portuguese colony, you drive on the left... ish.

10. Forget queuing! When waiting in line, stand as close as possible to the person in front and push in front if you get an opportunity.

Whilst at times it seems there are endless cultural things we are yet to learn, occasionally events cut across cultures. Here are two not so serious examples: 

Not that long ago, we were waiting for a driver to reverse out of a car parking space. The driver was taking ages and doing a very bad job of it. Nearby was a car park guard and we gestured a shrugged enquiry as to why the driver was having so much trouble with a simple manoeuvre. Through a hand gesture that was universally recognisable (but slightly awkward to describe in writing), he explained that the only problem with the vehicle was that it had a woman driver! Maybe a Mozambican Number One Ladies Driving School would go down well here...

Isaac helping clear a machamba (field) at a friends house

So, having insulted women drivers everywhere, it's probably only fair to give another story relating to perceived failings of Mozambican men. On another occasion, we were chatting to Dona Louisa, desperately trying to explain the importance of Isaac helping around the house in order that he understands that household jobs are not just for women. She heartily agreed, but quietly turned to Christine when Geoff wasn’t listening to point out that although this was a good theory, everyone knew that all men were worse than totally useless when it came to things like this.

We're aware these stories are a bit tongue in cheek, but finding common ground in the little things of life helps to remind us just how much of human life can cut across culture. Pray that we continue to find common ground with others as we get to know our neighbours living in very different circumstances here on the Mozambican coast.