Humble. It’s a rather nondescript adjective, yet it packs more punch than its unassuming appearance suggests. After all, it’s synonymous with “plain” or “common.”

I’ve learned a lot about humility since coming to Bolivia. Despite the anti-American sentiment that feels very personal at times, I have realized that I am not here to ideologically defend my country but instead to focus on showing Christ’s compassion to those in need.

In 2005, Bolivians elected Evo Morales, the first indigenous president of Bolivia, or any other South American country for that matter. It was a big step for the indigenous community, who had only been given the right to vote in 1952, after nearly four centuries of repression.

Since the election, Evo Morales’ relationship with the U.S. has been tumultuous and hostile. He blames us for meddling in his country’s affairs and misusing the relationship between the two governments for our benefit. And he’s not entirely mistaken in that assertion, unfortunately.

Evo has become a champion for indigenous populations, and loyal supporters hang on his every word. So when Evo says that he intends to be the U.S.’ worst nightmare, Bolivia’s indigenous people nod their heads in agreement.

Demonstrations and strikes have been a regular occurrence around the country. Sporadic fighting between the government and anti-Evo forces took place in the wealthy city of Santa Cruz and martial law was imposed in the eastern department of Pando. Evo blamed much of this on the U.S. ambassador and subsequently kicked him out of the country.

The Aymara, the group that populates the highlands where I work, is the second largest indigenous group in the country. As a U.S. citizen working amongst them, I know there is potential for misunderstanding and exaggerated stereotypes. Thankfully, the subject of my nationality comes up far less often than I thought it would, but it still comes up.

Even though all this is happening around me, I have to remember that my goal is to declare the love of God and not to get involved in the political machinations that are causing discord. I know the best way to do this is by following Jesus’ example and living humbly.

And that’s what I’ve chosen to do. I listen. I ask questions and show genuine interest. I smile a lot. Because I don’t want to appear as a proud person who thinks he knows best.