Abnormal is the new Normal

Sometimes I realize how different regular life is here, but most of the time I don't. The other day, some people walked into my Ger, and I had no idea who they were. I invited them to sit down and offered them some candy. There was an older man and a young boy. The man showed me a letter that the boy got from America. It was a Christmas card that arrived here in March. Since it was all in English, and they wanted me to translate it for them. I got the main points across, talked with them for a little bit, and then they went on their way.

It was good. First of all, my Ger wasn't messy. That's a big accomplishment because Mongolians do not like when a house is dirty. And I got lucky because I had no idea anyone was going to come and visit. It is also pretty important to offer guests at least something, so it was good that I at least had some candy to give them. Also, I managed to speak to some Mongolians that knew absolutely no English. Anytime I can have a decent conversation in all Mongolian is a big success for me. I've had many people come into my Ger that were complete strangers but that does not phase me anymore. I usually act like I know them anyways just in case I met them before and forgot who they were.

Whoever it was that sent that little kid a letter doesn't know how it significant it was to them either. I don't know what organization it was, but they had Americans send letters to Mongolian children. Later on, some other kids showed me their Christmas cards that they got in March too. I don't know how they figured out where I lived, but they were curious enough to figure out what the letter said and came to me for translation.

I imagine in America that most people would not let strangers into their home, and if someone was seeking help of some sort it would have to be arranged in advance. But Mongolia is very spontaneous – if Mongolians have a plan, its usually to “wing it.” That can be both good and frustrating sometimes. I don't know how the weather got the memo, but it is equally spontaneous. Just when I thought spring “broke” it will go into relapse again. It can be in the 60's several days in a row (no fire needed) only to be followed by snow and bitter wind the next day. But that doesn't phase me anymore either. I'm almost a year in now, and for the most part - I'm adjusted.