This is going to be a brief post about Romanian culture!
While I was in Romania for a month, due to Covid I was only able to learn some parts about the culture of Romania. I spent the majority of my time in Craiova but I also spent some time in Draganesti. For the most part in the city (Craiova) life is a lot more hustle and bustle but, there were a lot of times when we would walk through a park and there would be people sitting on a bench having their lunch with a friend. However, it was clear to them that we were Americans and we often got questioning looks. The people in the city are also used to seeing Americans come due to the volume of squads the World Race sends there but, that also can mean that the locals do not always have the patience for our antics. The youth of this community did enjoy talking with us! They were very interested in where we are all from and wanted to know more about each of the many states we represented.
We were able to learn a little bit of the history of Romania and how communism greatly affected their culture as well as their attitudes about Americans. Some of the youth we were able to talk to explained to us that those who lived through the communism era resent Americans. They told us that because America didn’t do much to help Romania during or after communism and some of the older generation still hold some bitterness because of that. However, there were a few people of the older generation that were interested in speaking with us but, for the most part we talked to the youth.
Romania is still influenced by its time during communism and the people of this country are still hurting because of it. Under communism all religion was not allowed and that caused a sense of hopelessness. Now, the main religion there is Romanian Orthodox. This is a sect of Christianity but, it has twisted the original message of the gospel and has focussed mostly on death and legalism. Communism and the Orthodox church have greatly affected this country but they are still very warm and lively people anyway. Once they get to know you a little better they are quite welcoming and loving.
Photo Taken by: Tiffany McCuin
I learned so much in Romania and I hope to one day return to visit. I was a bit bummed that I missed sunflower season though! (They were in full bloom in June & July) I did get the opportunity to mark this country in a permanent way! I was able to get a sunflower tattoo. For background, sunflowers are my favorite flower for their bright and cheery nature but, they also have a deeper meaning to me. Before they fully bloom sunflowers turn to face the sun and I always imagined that I am the sunflower turning to face the Lord as best I could! So, since Romania is partially known for the endless sunflower fields, I thought of no better place to fulfill this!
Photo Taken by: Taylor Hall
What a beautiful reminder of where our Hope truly is! Only by turning to Jesus can we really live. God bless you.
Katie, I just learned a few facts about sunflowers this past summer from a sermon our pastor preached on seeds. One of my favorite facts is that sunflowers turn to face the sun each morning, just like I want to turn my attention to the Son each morning. Love that sunflowers are your favorite flower. I am really enjoying your recent blog posts!