A Stranger in Malta

                        Living in Malta:

                 Rough Waters Ahead

 

 

                  The Scene Yesterday Along Tower Road in Sliema

 

I was walking along--being blown around by 40 MPH winds (not really that bad for someone who comes from Boston)--but then I saw this scene in front of me and thought:  Where the (excuse me) F---- am I?  What is this water doing where I am living?

 

Maybe you know, this was one of those unreality moments.

 

I think the honeymoon period of the settling into Malta is over.  I've been very sad lately--missing people--even dead people who I was glad had died--old relationships, my kids, my Ben & Jerry's Cherry Garcia, my ability to turn out writing assignments quickly.

 

It seems like everything has changed.  I guess that's because it has.  I don't think the sadness or mild depression has so much to do with the nature of Malta; it's more about my entire life changing.

 

I met a great woman yesterday, working in a nature food shop, who seemed to know a lot about what foreigners go through.  It's like she was reading my mind:

She said moving to Malta involves mourning--you've left everything you know and were used to--people, job, family, foods, maybe even things you thought you wouldn't care about.  And then there's a whole uncertain future about making new friends, starting a new job, just functioning in a whole new environment.   You have to give it a year to start feeling more comfortable.  It takes at least a few months to even get your footing. 

 

And then she said something I thought was beautiful: She said if you let it, Malta will change you.  And you'll be able to enjoy a more simpler but more rewarding life.

 

I asked her if it would change Mr. S. She said it probably would, and I said--Thank G-d.

 

This is one smart woman.  She told me to stop by anytime and ask anything I want.  I walk by her shop ever morning for a walk along Balata Bay.  Boy, will she ever be sorry she asked me to stop in anytime!

 

And, honestly, that's my biggest quandary now: Everyone is friendly and says, "Ask me if you need anything."  But do they really mean it?  I feel paranoid now. Sometimes I worry that I bother people by stopping to say hello whenever I walk by.

 

The funny thing is that even though I've already met many of my neighbors, not one has invited me into his/her home.  I don't know why.  I really don't.  G--the smart woman I'm talking about-- says the Maltese are very friendly, but up to a point.  There is a level of mistrust that takes time to overcome.  So maybe that's it.

 

So I feel like I've lost my instinct for basic communication.  I don't know if I'm getting the signals right--or even what the signals are.

 

Yes, I guess this is what happens when the honeymoon is over.  My fear is that this still is the honeymoon.

 

P.S. Did anyone hear if the pirates released my shipment container along with the oil barge?

Comments

[MaltaGirl]

Don't worry about it, Maltese people rarely invite other people into their homes. Most neighbours never step inside each other's homes. They tend to make exception for foreigners though so you might be lucky! Best way to start is by inviting other people into yours :-) Then they might reciprocate.

You live in Sliema - ever been to the Park Towers supermarket? On one occasion I went there, got my tub of Ben & Jerry's, wrapped it in lots of layers of newspaper and then got the bus home - the newspaper kept it cold till I got home half-an-hour later. Can't guarantee they'll have Cherry Garcia, but I have seen it around on occasion.

[Sennuwy (an ancient Egyptian name)]

Katie, thanks so much for your encouragement. And I'm so glad you told me about your experience with the Maltese people guarding their homes. It's exactly like that!!!! And the more they guard them. the more curious I am. But I learn to be patient, as you suggested. And I'm glad you found your family---Ilene

[Katie]

Keep your head up - I know just moving across the country is hard and I always miss things from home. I noticed the same thing about Maltese homes when I was there, of course I went into my family's home when I was there, but when I was looking for my family (who I had not met before) the people helping me just stood in their entry way sort of "standing guard" if you will. Because of all of them I was able to find my family though so I think it just takes a while.

[Ann Fenech]

Hey Ilene :)

I'm in London now, where I am continuing my studies. Have been here for little over 2 months.
Hehe - I am NOT surprised about that :) Even if it wasn't planned, that thing is so common there, which can be either very nice or highly irritating, depending on the circumstances.

Enjoy Malta! I am back next week - can't wait :D

X'hemm Ann,

Grazzi hofna for your comment and advice. That make me feel better. And guess what? Tonight I went to a yoga class with my hairdresser! Where are you living now?----Ilene

[Ann Fenech]

Just came across your blog. I don't think you should be too surprised Maltese people haven't taken you into their houses. It may take a while sometimes, but then sometime you will find someone who will just take you in cos s/he thinks it is the right opportunity.
Enjoy Malta for me! I miss it :)

[Sennuwy (an ancient Egyptian name)]

Hi Lynda,

Thanks again for YOUR wise words. And believe me, you won't have to force me to come round for a coffee (except that for me, it will be a hot chocolate). I think you're going to like talking to people in Malta.

[Lynda Adlington]

Hi there, Don't miss dead people just because its wet and windy :-) Keep smiling , remember what i said about it taking time to settle in a new country however nice it is. It can take a year! Glad you found a health shop, that's a must for me, she sounds wise. When we get there i will force you to come around for a coffee. When we moved here to Spain, i couldn't even talk to people because of the language, and now after three years ..... I still can't talk to them - well a bit