African Culture--What Little I've Been Told

It seems strange to write about African Culture when I've never experienced it. Nevertheless, I can share what I have been told. To begin with, I was told that anytime I speak in a seminar or church setting I need to wear a tie and preferably a coat. A veteran missionary said, "The coat and tie do not have to match, but you need to have one." Apparently this goes back to the British culture that was imported to Africa during the Colonial era. (British judges to this day still wear those fancy wigs.) My plan is to take an old sportcoat that I have not worn in years and then give it to one of the leaders in Africa before I return home. This veteran missionary also said that the handshake is very important--no "cold fish handshakes" allowed!

As for the food I'll be eating. Rice, rice, and more rice--along with some beans, corn, and maybe a little chicken. In some places I'm told that BBQ rat is a delicacy. That's one food choice I would rather not encounter!

They tell me that the weather should be pleasant. Mozambique will be hot as it is a low elevation right on the Indian Ocean. But Malawi and Zambia are on a high plateau which creates a dry, pleasant climate.

It's hard to believe I'll be in Africa in three weeks. My son asked me today if I'll go to Africa again:) I told him I don't know--for now I'm just excited about this trip and anxious to see how God uses it to touch and shape my heart.