One of the Guys

We have been told repeatedly that we should be prepared for a different sense of humor in Belfast. Conversational banter here often revolves around sarcastically poking fun at others (particularly, say, their enormous height, American accent, resemblence to certain members of the royal family, etc.). If we get made fun of, we were told, we should take it as encouragement- it means that people here feel like they can relate to you. Thus, it has been with much satisfaction that I endured some good natured teasing last night from the guys at The 174 Trust, as we played football on a wet pitch (field) off the Falls Road. "That's right, fix your hair, Princey!" one yelled when I ran my hand through my hair in preparation for a penalty kick. "Trying to draw a penalty, eh? Nice dive!" they teased as I fell flat on my face trying to control an incoming pass. Although I'm still a little slow with the comebacks, I have learned to simply laugh at myself, and enjoy it.

It was also with much laughter that I received the following picture and caption in an email conversation amongst all of the youth leaders at the church, referencing the upcoming youth retreat to go surfing on the north coast (no joke), and one youth leader's "real job" at Ernst & Young downtown:


BUSH SENDS TOP MAN TO ULSTER
President Bush today announced that Top US sport star Chris Pratt-Dannals was being sent to
war torn North Belfast. "I'm sure Chris can show my good friends in Scotland that we want to help with all their trouble. It warms my heart when I imagine Chris and all those little stone throwers surfing in the tropical winter waters of Portrush. No doubt Chris can teach them how to throw properly." Ernst & Young welcomed the president's initiative. "We welcome any assistance, as all our staff are currently busy typing non-sensical emails to the youth leaders of their various church congregations."

Thus, at both The 174 and Whitehouse Church, things seem to be going quite well. Much sooner than expected, I am starting to feel like one of the guys, and its hilarious.