First, show some respect. I took this photo visiting my sitemate's rural village, which is very traditional. He noted that during his year of service, he really only interacted with men for work and socializing.I donned the traditional chitenje (wrap cloth), even though in the town in which I lived I rarely wore that type of garment at the hospital where I was posted.The women of his community immediately pulled me over to their mat and began asking me health related questions (I am a nurse) and eventually about their families' struggles with HIV and malaria.I was humbled to be seen as an 'expert' by women who did not know me well.They told me that because I put on the chitenje, out of respect for Malawian women,that they knew they could trust that I appreciated the culture and thus was welcomed into their circle for the day.This moment defined and reinforced what I learned while serving.Respect and appreciation for local culture.Integration into the context.Commitment to social justice.Starting where you stand