Settled In

I’m pretty sure there is a theory about the pattern of exhibited human behaviours when a person is taken out of their home environment and shipped halfway across the world to a foreign land as I have been. Well, I wasn’t “taken”, in fact I enthusiastically volunteered to go on this journey. The point I am trying to make is that I think I have not settled into my new home. Let me describe some of my observations.

In my first four weeks I was stopped by police 8 times. And might I add never by myself, I was always walking or driving with someone or some people. In the past three weeks I have only been stopped once. People say that police can smell foreigners and are diligent in doing their job enforcing the law that requires ALL persons in Mozambique to carry valid identification. Okay, so not conclusive evidence by itself but let me bolster it some more.

My stomach is in A1 condition and has been for the past few weeks. Whoa!!! I know, I know, not the type of information all of you reading care to know, but hey, this blog is for my writing pleasure too.

I don’t look sun deprived as most Canadians and Brits do when they arrive in Mozambique. In fact, I have a healthy tanned complexion. And no I have not been sun bathing, in fact, I make every effort to stay out of the sun and keep protected with habitual sun block application every morning and a pair of sun glasses handy every time the sun wants to make an appearance.

My body has stabilized. I eat regularly, which for me is at least three balanced meals per day, with a sprinkling of snacks and beverages to keep my blood sugar regular and my mouth moist.

When I walk the street I am not bombarded with shouts of “Boss! Boss! Chef! Chef!” and requests to purchase anything and everything, including peanuts, airtime, oranges, and paintings. In fact, when I go out with Kevin he is the perfect distraction. His aura screams “I am American” and every street merchant flocks to him to sell him something. They are drawn to him like white on rice. He doesn’t find it as amusing as I do.

And if the above reasons haven’t convinced you, here is the bread winner—I am comfortable staying in my own flat!!! I know, I know, many of you are probably worrying that I may be sick. I can hear you saying to yourself, “It’s not possible! Matt never stays home.” But I stand by my words and proclaim I CAN stay home. In fact, just last night I stayed in and watched a DVD.