The N Word

We all know what the "N Word" is, right? It's the one that we don't say... for many, many reasons. Guess what? The country where we're getting our orphans didn't get that memo. Apparently, it's not just that country. It's a number of Eastern European countries. 

You can imagine my surprise when I read another host mom's warning on our FB page. The post read:
WARNING ⚠ they use the N word as normal language!! 😳😁😣 we go to a culturally diverse church and well...

 This child was in youth group at the church when he said it! Ouch! 

When I was in Guatemala a few months ago, I shortened the word "caribiner" to "beener" (referring to rock climbing) and was told by a 19 year old it was racist. I was very confused, as I had never heard that term before. My face turned red. It was never my intent to offend anyone! When working a high ropes element at camp 20 years ago, we all used that word. Oops. Now I know. I wish I would have learned it before I was stared at, like I had shot someone... that day in Guatemala.

These orphans have one word to describe African Americans. It's "nigr". The orphans have told their host parents that it's normal, and not derogatory. Others chimed in and told their embarrassing stories. For two of the countries in which Project 143 hosts from, there is no other word in their culture to describe African Americans. We weren't told this in the training. We have learned that many of these kids has never seen an African American before, however.

My son's favorite friend in the whole wide world is African American. Thankfully, I don't believe my son has ever even heard the N word. Looks like Ray and I will need to "nip this in the bud" - with love - when our guests arrive. 
 
For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, abounding in riches for all who call on Him. Romans 10:12