What does one do with a branch that's been a branch for 30+ years?
While it is exciting to be trying to help the branch try to become a ward, the fact is that I'm not sure how to help. The main part of the branch consists of easily offended "creentes," or "believers" who don't do more than come to sacrament. Teachers are stuck in the read-from-the-book rut, and the youth are bored out of their minds. And because everyone has sensitive egos, (See the food-fat complex described below) we cannot be the least bit blunt in suggesting they try to do better. There are a few people who have managed to become strong in the gospel through their own efforts... and struggle to understand why everyone else doesn't do the same. The end result is that there is no visiting or home teaching, and poor excuses for mutual and primary activates. We've also learned that there is a distinct lack of testimony. Many of the members believe, a little, or want to believe, but lack the surety about the most basic principles of the gospel that all members need.
It's a real pickle.
Members generally like us, but we're in constant strife. The Relief society signs up to feed us on a calendar. However, there is a strong cultural tradition of offering food to ALL guests at ALL times, and as a guest, it is an insult to the host not to accept the food and then eat ALL of it. Because of this, we are many times obliged to eat several "dinners" every evening. Hermana Secrist, just before I came, had four full meals in as many hours; I've managed to escape with no more than three, thus far.
Not accepting the food has disastrous consequences. Hermana Secrist once related how one member forced several servings on her and her companion. When unable to finish, they were asked point blank why they weren’t eating. They said that the food was very good, and they were no longer hungry. The hostess proceeded to insist they have more, but they simply were not able to, and said as much. The hostess then said "Are you saying I'm fat because I eat this much?!?" and proceeded to kick them out of the house.
While this is an extreme cenario, It's a good example of how delicately we are being forced to choose our words and actions; I simply do not understand the culture well enough to cope. I do not know whether this is a failing on my part, or what.
All suggestions and help (NOT in the form of food) are more than welcome.
Sorry for the negative note; I'll hand write some better news later.
Yours Truly,
Maren Jones
