What's That Buzzing Noise?

OK, yeah, I'm still on this World Cup soccer kick. I can't get enough. I mean, even today, I was glued to ESPN watching the U.S. vs. Slovenia match (we were robbed!).

But only a few days into this event and much of the talk is about the vuvuzela. Yes, the plastic trumpets blown without ceasing during the matches. Some people are vehemently anti-vuvuzela, while others, I notice, don't raise a fuss or fight the inevitable.

For my part I barely notice them. The buzzing is more like fuzzy reception but it's nothing that to lose my mind over. I get past it to see the game.

And really, no should be complaining. The vuvuzela is part of this culture. "Vuvuzelas, drums and singing are part of African football culture. It is part of their celebration, it is part of their culture, so let them blow the vuvuzelas" said FIFA president Joseph S. Blatter. And since South Africa is the host, their culture is the host. Get over it, vuvuzela haters.

My point becomes this, when faced with people of different worldviews and different cultures, don't try to convert them to your worldview or culture. All of our human cultures and traditions are tainted by sin and selfishness. No one is better than another. Don't cut them off and try to stop the sound.

Instead, listen to what the other is saying or the vuvuzela they are blowing. Whether it is your Becky or someone outside that target demographic, get over the different sounding buzz that rings in your ears and find out what she or he is about. To simply complain about it or to completely mute the buzz cuts you off from the potential to learn. And then you're completely out of touch.