At this point in our language learning, we imagine that to our Amdu friends we must sound like little toddlers just starting to talk. There are times when we can put together phrases and even sentences correctly. We can greet our friends and ask simple questions. As each day goes by, we are understanding more of this language that is filling our ears. But sometimes, even though we say the right words, we probably sound as though we are talking in slow motion – compared to the lightning speed with which our Amdu friends rattle off their talk. Then there are the times when we have it only partly right and say things that must sound odd like, “Him two banana yellow bringed I.” And of course, there is still the majority of the time when we can’t understand what they are saying and we have no idea how to say what we would like to get across!
Living in a tribe and learning an unwritten language and culture might sound exotic, adventurous and exciting. While there are elements of those things, in reality it’s just a whole lot of hard work! There are challenges and disappointments that go along with the awesome privilege of bringing God’s Truth to this group of people. Please pray for us to keep our eyes on the Lord and to have the strength and stamina to plug away at learning this language even when progress seems slow. If you pray for us, would you let us know that (either via email or through the “Contact” page here on our blog)? It would be an encouragement to hear from you.