Monday, January 30, 2012

Crossing the 'normal' line

We have recently reached a year in Jakarta. Amazing.

Apparently when you move to another culture, there is a point when you step over the 'normal line'. When things that seemed crazy/different/bizarre/interesting upon arrival and in the ensuing months, no longer capture your attention. You probably won't be able to define the moment when it happens. But you're no longer surprised.

So I thought I would list a few things that seem so 'everyday', but that I know absolutely were not when we first arrived. You will have to forgive the few snaps I took today from the car, during a crazy tropical storm. Because that (the storm) is normal in Jakarta (hopefully not the terrible photos!).

The traffic. How can I not start with the traffic? A city containing the equivalent of Australia's population. And without the infrastructure to deal with it. Every day, whole families travel together on a single motorbike. Teeny babies being held, while their Mum's send SMS messages from the rear of a bike. Food carts being lugged by weary men and 'bajajs' worming their way through four undefined lanes of traffic. Police sirens punctuating the sound of horns, as escorts carrying ambassadors and government officials frequently attempt to wade through traffic. The familiar sight of red tail lights in front of you, all waiting to move. A drive that normally takes 20 minutes, taking an hour - for no particular reason. And if it starts to rain, just double your travel time. The 'language' of drivers - flashing lights mean "Oh, don't go! I'm coming through!" and a beep of the horn equates to "Excuse me, careful, I'm right here, and if you don't mind I may pass you now". Because everyone in Indonesia is polite. Very polite.

And as you drive, or mostly sit in the stationary car whilst waiting to progress, what do you see? Monkeys next to your car, occasionally wearing very freaky doll masks, collecting money for their owners. People sleeping on the footpath. Many, many, many beggars. 'Jockeys' waiting to be picked up by a complete stranger, so that they can be paid about $1.50 to travel to an unknown location with the occupants who need an extra person to go in the transit lane. Little ones playing on the edge of these crazy roads, as their parents make a living selling food there. The 'warungs' where people buy meals and congregate, engaged in lively chatter. People squatting, always squatting (how do their knees cope?). People crossing the roads, waving their 'magic hand' which is code for "Please don't hit me". Burning rubbish heaps. Smiling people.

Off the roads? Don't be in a rush at the shops, because no one who works there is! It may take three or four salespersons to complete the sale, even if you are buying a pencil. And you may need to go to at least two counters, maybe three to buy that pencil. Seriously. Being stared at is expected, and not noticeable anymore. I rarely open a door, because someone always beats me to it. I'm never on my own. Whether in my house with my 'helper', my car with our driver, or walking out of our home, someone is always smiling and greeting me. Our church has armed guards. And each time we enter our apartments or a shopping centre, mirrors are run around the bottom of the car as they check for bombs. Not very thoroughly, but they check. Speaking to my boys about why they should have their hands checked for explosives doesn't seem as strange. I no longer hear the 'Call to Prayer' five times a day. It certainly does still happen, quite loudly at times, but I only notice occasionally. Then there is That Smell...actually I'm not used to that yet.

I was asked recently what I like about living in Jakarta, by someone who doesn't. I answered that it is so crazy, so busy, so different, that it is a fascinating place. You could never be bored here or expect any day to be like the last one. And the people. The gorgeous people. The Indonesians I have met are kind, polite, generous and joyful. It is a pleasure and a privilege to be in their country.






Giving thanks:
  • Watching the Australian Open with my boys.
  • Tropical storms.
  • Meaningful conversation over lunch with a special friend.
  • Changes for the 'White Box Foundation' (more on that another time).
  • Chances to do Jesus' work.
  • Booking our mid-year holiday. Cannot wait.
  • Legs that seem to be growing longer - becoming a big boy.
  • Seeing my youngest in a costume - it's been a long while.
  • Ami, our new pembantu. Her gorgeous smile and quiet nature.
  • Ibu Sri being so understanding about our change in staff.

12 comments:

  1. Hi! I'm over here from Ann's. I decided instead of linking up on Mondays and scurrying away to try to visit at least three "random" blogs and to join in their gratitude. I'm so glad I "happened" upon your place. What an interesting, beautiful, and hard at times life God has you living. I'm stopping right now to pray for you and yours as you minister there.

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    1. You've encouraged me to do the same Elizabeth! Thanks for stopping by. I should clarify my husband is working here, but it isn't in ministry. I can see how I have given that impression including my gratitude list. Just enjoying doing Jesus' work while we are here, as we all can wherever we are placed. Certainly lots of opportunity for it here!

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  2. So glad you have found peace in the midst of such craziness. I can't imagine sounding so matter of fact about having my car checked for bombs! May God bless and keep all of you as you do His work.

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    1. We certainly are at peace about being in the right place, Stacy. I should clarify that we are not in ministry here. Just enjoying serving in the ways we can. Thank you for your kind words. Blessings.

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  3. What an amazing adventure you must be gratefully living while in Jakarta. Love your blog. :)

    Blessings,
    ~Rosann

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    1. Thanks Rosann - appreciate that! It certainly is an adventure. :-)

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  4. Loved the peek into your life you gave us! Makes me giggle and also want to visit.

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    1. Thanks Amy! It's a destination not many have on their lists. But we are so glad we are here!

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  5. I love to travel and while I sit here in my house near the ocean, surrounded by the hum of the vacuum pushed around by my Hispanic housekeepers, you took me to Indonesia. My eyes were wide the whole time. Loved it! Thank you.

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    1. I'm so glad it managed to bring you here! My eyes were wide the first time I was here too!
      And apologies for the duplicate post on your blog...
      :-)

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  6. I loved the peek into your world, Pauline. We are pretty much Midwestern Americans, never having traveled much (comparatively speaking), so your description and photos were eye-opening. As always, I am moved by your heart and desire to serve and be joyful in all. If only I could do as much.

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  7. Thank you Julie. I have no doubt you are doing a huge service right where you are! Being in a different country like this doesn't make the work more valuable. Loving people, listening and obeying, are what is required of all of us, regardless of where we sit on the globe.
    Blessings to you.

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