Stigma

As mentioned in a previous post, the family of Miriam’s father has yet to give consent for the adoption. Paul was given a glimpse today into the reason for their opposition. It’s hard to understand, and in fact seems completely irrational to my American mind, but I will try to explain. My explanation comes partly from the little I know about Congolese/African culture, and also from a book I recently read (see recommendation at right).

Part of the reason AIDS has taken such a toll on the continent is because of the stigma that it carries. Anyone who admits a diagnosis with HIV is very often subject to alienation and abuse from even their closest friends and family. Because of this, it has been a very difficult battle to convince people to be tested. The stigma elicits secrecy and shame. It has been taboo to talk about sex, so education about AIDS is difficult to institute.

The family of Miriam's father would rather believe that her mother killed their son by poisoning, than to believe that he died of AIDS. This way they have the power to fight something tangible and someone they can blame. And so her mother’s desire is at odds with the grief of her father’s family and the stigma of AIDS.

This makes me think about the unseen ways in which our culture affects our faith. We make choices and justify our actions, all based on our view of the world (many of ours have to do with materialism). What seems completely rational to me in my culture may seem absurd to someone in another part of the world. No one has the “right kind of faith.” My family can only provide Miriam with a chance at more opportunity and an easier way of life. We can offer her a safe place to question God and to grow in faith…a quiet place to hear God’s call on her life.

So we attempt to trust as we wait, praying for a miracle, and knowing that God is sovereign over culture and worldview.