Culture Stress, Culture Shock and Adjustment

I’d like to include in my research project some of the discussions, opinions, and experiences of those of you who have had cross-cultural experience on the mission field. I’m particularly interented in your thoughts on the the following questions:   Do you feel that you received adiquate training (preparation) before entering a different culture? What were some of the most difficult “stressors” that you faced on the field? What were the effects of “culture shock” on you, your family, the local people, and your overall effectiveness as a missionary? What kept you on the field, especially during those “most difficult days? What factors contributed most to your ability to adjust to a another culture? And finally, What were the major ways your supporters (church, sending adgency) helped you toward that adjustment?

I would greatly enjoy reading your discussions.