Blessed are the flexible, for they shall not be bent out of shape.

The Ten Commandments for Ubuntu Journey Sisters

 

1.     Thou shalt not expect to find things as thou hast them at home, for thou hast left thy home to experience new things.

2.     Thou shalt not take anything too seriously, for a carefree mind is the beginning of a fine mission experience.

3.     Thou shalt not let other team members get on thy nerves, for thou art ready to have a good time.

4.     Remember thy documents so that thou knowest where they are at all times. A person without documents is a person with big problems.

5.     Remember to take only half the clothes thou expectest to need and twice the amount of money.

6.     Remember: if we were expected to stay in one place, we would have been created with roots. 

7.     Thou shalt not make thyself too obviously North American. When in Lithuania, do as the Lithuanians do.

8.     Thou shalt not worry. They that worry hath no pleasure. Few things are ever fatal. Thy team leader, thy Ubuntu Hostess, and our Lord will care for thee.

9.     Thou shalt travel with a cheerful countenance and hopeful joy for what the day will bring.

10.  Remember that thou art an invited guest in the land and that those who treat their hosts with respect shall in turn be treated as honored and much-loved guests.

Source: Original version written by Jeanie Blankenbaker and used in the UMVIM Training Manual for Mission Volunteers, Global Ministries, 2005. Above version revised by Jeanie Blankenbaker reflecting Ubuntu Journeys.

Blessed are the flexible, for they shall not be bent out of shape.

Looking forward to our Ubuntu Journey!

  Judy Marnin