Salvador, who came to Truk with his wife, Helen, ten years ago, remembers trying to ask a Trukese lady if she wanted to be happy (pwapwa). Instead, he asked if she wanted to be pregnant (pwopwo). And Zenette, who came from Canada with her husband, David, recalls the time when she tried to say “Thank you” (kilisou) but wound up saying “Horsefly” (kiliso). Needless to say, they know those words well now.

Missionaries in Ponape, Truk, and Belau use their own boats for island witnessing. Since there are no docking facilities at most places, they often have to wade ashore in mud up to their knees. Most residents are friendly and welcome the visitors by spreading out woven floor mats for them and serving them cool coconut water. The entire family is summoned and will listen attentively. Because many do not have money, it is not uncommon to see publishers returning after two or three days with their boat loaded with fruit received in exchange for Bible literature.

Rodney and Sheri came to Truk from Hawaii. He admits: “Frankly, I experienced a culture shock.” Now, ten years later, he writes: “We have a very satisfying work to do here. We have our ups and downs; at times we feel discouraged and lonely. But we want to continue to pursue our purpose in life in missionary work here.” And Sheri cheerfully adds: “Self-sacrificing people are happy people.”