It is official, I have landed in the US. I cannot comprehend that I will be home tonight. It does not feel real that I just said goodbye to people and a culture that have made such an impact on my life these last 3 ½ months. I am excited to go home, but I can’t help but miss India and all that came with it.
I have been thinking and reflecting a lot lately.
I have been thinking about how to share my trip. I saw, learned, and experienced more than I ever thought possible in 3 ½ months. What parts do I share? A lot of things cannot be fully understood unless you actually experience them yourself.
I have been thinking about what changes I am going to make in my life. I learned so much, but that means nothing unless I apply what I learned.
I have been thinking about what I was exposed to and want to explore deeper. Poverty, consumerism, contextualization, caste system, sex trafficking, and the list goes on and on.
I have been thinking about how I help my community and make a difference here. Most of the problems that I saw in India can be found in some form or another in the US. It can be overwhelming to think about all the problems and injustice that exist. I may not be able to fix all of them, or even any of them. What is my passion? Where do I want to start making small small change?
I have been thinking about how much change God has made in my heart and I hope and pray that change continues.
Those are just a few of the MANY things I have been thinking about.
Hopefully, sometime soon, I will be able to make sense of these scattered thoughts and put them into action.
Thanks to all you readers for your prayers and encouragement through this whole journey!
Merry Christmas everyone!
Saturday, December 17, 2011
Thursday, December 1, 2011
And we're off!
Saying goodbyes has not been fun, especially when I don’t know if I will EVER see these people that made such an impact on my life again. That is sad too think about. However, I am so thankful to have met wonderful people that make saying goodbye so hard. I will also miss the city of Coimbatore. The door man that greets me with a cheerful, “Good morning madam” each morning when I get the paper, walking around racecourse seeing all the people, and yoga on the roof are just a few of the little things I will miss. Enough of the sad stuff. Thanks to the travel packet we received yesterday, I will share about our travel to the north.
Tomorrow morning we leave for Calcutta
In Calcutta we will visit-
Sari Bari:
Sari blanket making NGO whose employees are women who were all working in the sex trade.
Ramakrishna Mandir and Museum:
A famous temple
Kali Temple:
Another Temple.
St Paul’s Cathedral:
It was the first Anglican cathedral in India and is today the seat of the Church of North India bishop of Kolkata.
Then a LONG train to Varanasi (11:45 AM – 2:35 AM)
Is famous for the “ghats,” or stairs down to the river Ganges, where devotees go to bathe, believing that such bathing removes sins and impurities. Many Hindus believe that if one dies in Varanasi and is immersed in the Ganges at Varanasi one will immediately obtain Moksha, or liberation.
The Ghats:
A small number of ghats are “burning ghats” where dead bodies are cremated, typically on pyres made out of sandalwood (so as to cover the smell of burning flesh). Once the bodies have been completely burned the bones and ashes are immersed in the Ganges. A special breed of snapping turtles were bread to eat the flesh that doesn’t burn completely.
Sarnath:
Sarnath is the site of Gautama Buddha’s first sermon after he received enlightenment.
Varanasi Walks:
A tour through the twisting back alleys of old Varanasi and a sunset boat tour of the Ganges .
Open Hand Café:
Manufactures, exports and retails fairly traded high quality Indian-made textiles, garments, bags and handicrafts,
Then a train from 12am - 11:45am to Jaipur
Amber and Jaigarh Fort:
To get to the temple we are riding an ELEPHANT! Yes, another check on my India bucket list!
Bus to Agra!
Fatehpur Sikri:
Ancient abandoned capital of the Moghul Empire.
Agra Fort:
It is the place where Shah Jahan, the builder of the Taj Mahal, was imprisoned by his son.
The Taj Mahal:
The Taj was started in 1632 and completed in 1648, built by the Moghul Emperor Shah Jahan as a mausoleum for his favorite wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who died giving birth to their 14th child. We are going on a sunrise visit!
Train to Delhi!
Red Fort: Also built by Shah Jahan.
Within this packed schedule we will have some free time.
Then, on the 15th I head home. Bittersweet.
Don’t know how much internet I will have the next two weeks. I will try to update you when I can.
Bye for now :)
This is a picture from the candlelight ceremony we had Wednesday night. My friends Christy and Jenifer.
Tomorrow morning we leave for Calcutta
In Calcutta we will visit-
Sari Bari:
Sari blanket making NGO whose employees are women who were all working in the sex trade.
Ramakrishna Mandir and Museum:
A famous temple
Kali Temple:
Another Temple.
St Paul’s Cathedral:
It was the first Anglican cathedral in India and is today the seat of the Church of North India bishop of Kolkata.
Then a LONG train to Varanasi (11:45 AM – 2:35 AM)
Is famous for the “ghats,” or stairs down to the river Ganges, where devotees go to bathe, believing that such bathing removes sins and impurities. Many Hindus believe that if one dies in Varanasi and is immersed in the Ganges at Varanasi one will immediately obtain Moksha, or liberation.
The Ghats:
A small number of ghats are “burning ghats” where dead bodies are cremated, typically on pyres made out of sandalwood (so as to cover the smell of burning flesh). Once the bodies have been completely burned the bones and ashes are immersed in the Ganges. A special breed of snapping turtles were bread to eat the flesh that doesn’t burn completely.
Sarnath:
Sarnath is the site of Gautama Buddha’s first sermon after he received enlightenment.
Varanasi Walks:
A tour through the twisting back alleys of old Varanasi and a sunset boat tour of the Ganges .
Open Hand Café:
Manufactures, exports and retails fairly traded high quality Indian-made textiles, garments, bags and handicrafts,
Then a train from 12am - 11:45am to Jaipur
Amber and Jaigarh Fort:
To get to the temple we are riding an ELEPHANT! Yes, another check on my India bucket list!
Bus to Agra!
Fatehpur Sikri:
Ancient abandoned capital of the Moghul Empire.
Agra Fort:
It is the place where Shah Jahan, the builder of the Taj Mahal, was imprisoned by his son.
The Taj Mahal:
The Taj was started in 1632 and completed in 1648, built by the Moghul Emperor Shah Jahan as a mausoleum for his favorite wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who died giving birth to their 14th child. We are going on a sunrise visit!
Train to Delhi!
Red Fort: Also built by Shah Jahan.
Within this packed schedule we will have some free time.
Then, on the 15th I head home. Bittersweet.
Don’t know how much internet I will have the next two weeks. I will try to update you when I can.
Bye for now :)
This is a picture from the candlelight ceremony we had Wednesday night. My friends Christy and Jenifer.
Friday, November 25, 2011
Just Doin’ the Needful
To sum up what I have been up to lately, I would simply say I have been doing the needful (a common Indian phrase). Finals week has kept me busy with writing papers, preparing for presentations, and studying for exams. I got sick for a few days, so that put a damper on things, but now I am good to go. I wanted to experience EVERYTHING I could here and the hospital was definitely an experience. It cost just over $4 for everything, the visit and 4 prescriptions.
Along with school work I have been trying to wrap up my time here in Coimbatore. Little things like giving last minute fabric to the tailor and spending time with people I will miss is what I have been up to. On December 2nd we leave for 2 weeks of travel in the north. Some of the places we are going include, Calcutta, Varanasi Jaipur, Agra, then we end in New Delhi. I am so excited to see other places in India! Although they don’t have dosa in the north, so that is sad. Then on December 17th at 8:10 PM I will be home sweet home! Yay!
Here are some pictures of the meal we made for our final exam in cooking class.
Tawa Paratha. Kasmiri Pulao. Butter Chicken Masala. Paneer Mutter Masala
And can't forget the dessert!
The cooking crew
Along with school work I have been trying to wrap up my time here in Coimbatore. Little things like giving last minute fabric to the tailor and spending time with people I will miss is what I have been up to. On December 2nd we leave for 2 weeks of travel in the north. Some of the places we are going include, Calcutta, Varanasi Jaipur, Agra, then we end in New Delhi. I am so excited to see other places in India! Although they don’t have dosa in the north, so that is sad. Then on December 17th at 8:10 PM I will be home sweet home! Yay!
Here are some pictures of the meal we made for our final exam in cooking class.
Tawa Paratha. Kasmiri Pulao. Butter Chicken Masala. Paneer Mutter Masala
And can't forget the dessert!
The cooking crew
Sunday, November 13, 2011
A Lesson from a Mosquito
Ok first of all you all probably know how much strongly dislike mosquitos, like a lot. I especially don’t like the ones here. First of all, they are sneaky. They only have to land on you for like half of a second and you get bit. Seriously, today I was keeping a close eye on one. As soon as it landed I tried to kill it and if flew off. He barely even landed on me and I got a bite. The second reason mosquitos suck more than usual here is some of them hurt when/after they bite. So along with the constant itch of the bites it feels like you are being stabbed with little needles.
Alright back to the point of this blog. Let me recap a typical night for you. I am laying in bed trying to fall asleep. I am extremely exhausted , but have trouble sleeping at night because India just does that to a person. Each night this stupid, annoying mosquito buzzes in my ear. I wave my hand near my ear to get it to go away. The buzzing stops for a bit, then it returns. After frantically waving my hand, whipping my sheets, and trying to hit it in the dark with my pillow, you would think the mosquito would get the hint that I want it to GO AWAY, or at the very least be quiet. This mosquito has returned every night for the past couple weeks. And yes I am sure it is that same mosquito, it has a distinct buzz.
The other day I was laying in bed when the mosquito once again returned to buzz in my ear. Instead of getting angry this time I just laughed. I was reminded of how God is kind of like that mosquito. I can fight His presence, not listen to His voice (or in this analogy, buzz), but He will always be there loving me all the same.
So now every night when I hear that mosquito, I thank God for never leaving my side. No matter how many times I ignore Him or try to make Him away because I think I can do it on my own He never leaves.
So thank you mosquito for the lesson, but you are not God. Not even close, so if you could leave for good and stop buzzing in my ear, I would greatly appreciate it.
This week I would encourage you to find God in every part of your day. Let Him in on every thought, every fear, every joy, because the truth is, He is a part of everything whether you chose to acknowledge His presence or not.
“Yet I am always with you;
you hold me by my right hand.
You guide me with your counsel,
and afterward you will take me into glory.”
Psalm 73:23-24
Update:
The final weeks here in Coimbatore are coming to a close. I have been busy preparing for the papers, presentations and exams that are all due the last week of November. Along with schoolwork I am trying to make the most of my time left here. I cannot believe in less than three weeks we will be leaving for two weeks of travel in the north. Crazy how fast time flew by!
Alright back to the point of this blog. Let me recap a typical night for you. I am laying in bed trying to fall asleep. I am extremely exhausted , but have trouble sleeping at night because India just does that to a person. Each night this stupid, annoying mosquito buzzes in my ear. I wave my hand near my ear to get it to go away. The buzzing stops for a bit, then it returns. After frantically waving my hand, whipping my sheets, and trying to hit it in the dark with my pillow, you would think the mosquito would get the hint that I want it to GO AWAY, or at the very least be quiet. This mosquito has returned every night for the past couple weeks. And yes I am sure it is that same mosquito, it has a distinct buzz.
The other day I was laying in bed when the mosquito once again returned to buzz in my ear. Instead of getting angry this time I just laughed. I was reminded of how God is kind of like that mosquito. I can fight His presence, not listen to His voice (or in this analogy, buzz), but He will always be there loving me all the same.
So now every night when I hear that mosquito, I thank God for never leaving my side. No matter how many times I ignore Him or try to make Him away because I think I can do it on my own He never leaves.
So thank you mosquito for the lesson, but you are not God. Not even close, so if you could leave for good and stop buzzing in my ear, I would greatly appreciate it.
This week I would encourage you to find God in every part of your day. Let Him in on every thought, every fear, every joy, because the truth is, He is a part of everything whether you chose to acknowledge His presence or not.
“Yet I am always with you;
you hold me by my right hand.
You guide me with your counsel,
and afterward you will take me into glory.”
Psalm 73:23-24
Update:
The final weeks here in Coimbatore are coming to a close. I have been busy preparing for the papers, presentations and exams that are all due the last week of November. Along with schoolwork I am trying to make the most of my time left here. I cannot believe in less than three weeks we will be leaving for two weeks of travel in the north. Crazy how fast time flew by!
Friday, November 4, 2011
Great Day
Like the title says, today was a great day!
Started the day off the day right with a little yoga on the roof.
Finished the day off right with an amazing dinner.
Dosa. Sambar. Coconut Chutney. Tomato Chutney. Mint Chutney.
Poori. Potato Masala. Coconut Chutney.
Tea.
A sweet.
Started the day off the day right with a little yoga on the roof.
Finished the day off right with an amazing dinner.
Dosa. Sambar. Coconut Chutney. Tomato Chutney. Mint Chutney.
Poori. Potato Masala. Coconut Chutney.
Tea.
A sweet.
Monday, October 31, 2011
Broken Heart
Dear Hindu Boy,
You break my heart.
You pray to gods and worship idols because that is what your family does.
You do not know any better because Hinduism is so deeply rooted in your culture.
You make me thankful to have grown up in a Christian home.
If I had grown up in a Hindu family would I be worshipping idols just like you?
You always look forward to Saturdays because a group comes to your village every week to tell you about Jesus.
For three hours you sing, dance, pray and learn about Jesus Christ.
The only reason your parents let you come is to learn good habits.
Other kids have to fight with their parents in order to come.
Will you get in trouble if you tell them what you learned or if they see you praying?
Is three hours a week enough to teach you about Jesus if Hinduism is not only your family, village, and country’s religion, but way of life?
I wish there was something I could do for you.
All I know to do is pray for all the girls and boys like you.
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Happy Diwali
Yesterday was a holiday called Diwali. I don’t know the details of why it is celebrated but the 4th graders at my internship said on Diwali a Hindu goddess killed and demon or an evil spirit. It is called the festival of lights representing light defeating dark and evil. Even though it is a Hindu holiday, basically everyone celebrates. The Hindu religion is deeply rooted in the culture. For this festival new clothes are bought, sweets are made, and fire crackers are set off all day/night.
Last night our group went to a student’s house that goes to our college to celebrate. The fire crackers here are nothing like the home. You know the big ones that are illegal for us to have? Well in India, those and many more are set off next to houses, cars, trees, and power lines. Imagine a whole line of houses setting off these fireworks. I don’t think my ear drums have recovered yet. People started setting off crackers two days before Diwali and as I am writing this it still sounds like bombs are going off outside. 4th of July is going to seem like nothing compared to Diwali.
Diwali also marked the exact halfway point of my stay in India. I am not sure how I feel about it being halfway over. Of course, I am excited to go home, but at the same time I get sad when I think about leaving. What also makes it difficult is our two week travel at the end. We leave Coimbatore Decemember 2nd. Whoa! Just over a month away. I know I need to not worry about the future and enjoy each moment, but I cannot help but think how fast the first half flew by. I really love it here. I have developed a love for the people, culture, food, and so much more.
I have developed relationships within the ISP group and with the people of India that I will have a hard time leaving behind. I am surrounded by people who inspire me daily to learn and grow in more ways than I thought possible.
I have gotten accustom to living the simple life. What I call the simple life is actually a privileged life in Indian standards. Walking everywhere, limited internet, and having six outfits to pick from each day is something I have also learned to enjoy. The simplicity allows me to spend more time with God and with people, which is how I think it should be.
Lately, I have been finding myself craving Indian dishes…I never thought that would happen. I especially love the food we make in cooking class! Last week we made 8 different types of Dosa and 5 chutneys. I know most of you probably don’t know what that those are. Google it. Classic Indian breakfast. My favorite is plain dosa and coconut chutney. Don’t worry I am going to bring the ingredients home to make. After jet lag wears off everyone is invited over for dosa.
I have learned so much here and I thank God everyday for this experience. I am looking forward o the next half and cannot wait to see what is in store.
Monday, October 24, 2011
God's Own Country
Saturday morning at 5 am (well an Indian 5 AM, which means 5:30+) we boarded a bus and headed to the state of Kerala. Kerala’s nickname is God’s Own Country and is famous for its mountains and beauty. The bus ride was bumpy and long, but worth it.
We listened to some great speakers, ate good food, watch a Kathakali dance, and went on a boat tour.
On the way back there was a huge thunder storm and lots of rain. Let me tell you about monsoon season here.
To begin I will tell you a story-
On Wednesdays I go to an internship at a local school. This particular Wednesday had been a little difficult to say the least. My day at school ended with a huge confusion with which school bus I was to ride to get me back near college. Long story short it took all the bus drivers, bus helpers, and a few teachers to decide that I needed to ride bus #13, which I was almost sure was NOT the bus I was suppose to ride because I was told bus number 11 by my internship advisor. Thankfully, I eventually made it back. I had a little ways to walk back to the apartments and was looking forward to having time to just think and relax and clear my head after a long day. This Wednesday at about 4:00 marked the start of monsoon season. It poured! The most rain I have ever seen! If it has started 5 minutes earlier I could have took cover at college, but I was already on the race course walking path and just wanted to get home. After all it couldn’t last too long right? Along the path there were overhangs for when things like this happened, but I was not comfortable stranding around with a bunch of men. I tried taking cover under a tree, but that didn’t help for very long. So basically I walked 15 minutes in POURING rain. I’m pretty sure everyone that I passed hanging out under the overhangs got a good laugh. By the ime I got he the apartments, the streets were flooded up to my calves. Walking in to the apartment building, the ladies at the entrance laughed at me, wrang out my scarf and attempted to dry me off with a towel. Yep, so that was my introduction to monsoon season.
Also, later that week I was woken up by the loudest thunder I have ever heard. Seriously, I thought it was the end of the world and Jesus was returning or something. Not only was the thunder SO loud but he lightning was crazy bright. It was really scary, but kinda fun.
This Wednesday is a huge holiday here called Diwali. Post about that hopefully coming soon. Also Wednesday is the halfway point of the trip…crazy!
We listened to some great speakers, ate good food, watch a Kathakali dance, and went on a boat tour.
On the way back there was a huge thunder storm and lots of rain. Let me tell you about monsoon season here.
To begin I will tell you a story-
On Wednesdays I go to an internship at a local school. This particular Wednesday had been a little difficult to say the least. My day at school ended with a huge confusion with which school bus I was to ride to get me back near college. Long story short it took all the bus drivers, bus helpers, and a few teachers to decide that I needed to ride bus #13, which I was almost sure was NOT the bus I was suppose to ride because I was told bus number 11 by my internship advisor. Thankfully, I eventually made it back. I had a little ways to walk back to the apartments and was looking forward to having time to just think and relax and clear my head after a long day. This Wednesday at about 4:00 marked the start of monsoon season. It poured! The most rain I have ever seen! If it has started 5 minutes earlier I could have took cover at college, but I was already on the race course walking path and just wanted to get home. After all it couldn’t last too long right? Along the path there were overhangs for when things like this happened, but I was not comfortable stranding around with a bunch of men. I tried taking cover under a tree, but that didn’t help for very long. So basically I walked 15 minutes in POURING rain. I’m pretty sure everyone that I passed hanging out under the overhangs got a good laugh. By the ime I got he the apartments, the streets were flooded up to my calves. Walking in to the apartment building, the ladies at the entrance laughed at me, wrang out my scarf and attempted to dry me off with a towel. Yep, so that was my introduction to monsoon season.
Also, later that week I was woken up by the loudest thunder I have ever heard. Seriously, I thought it was the end of the world and Jesus was returning or something. Not only was the thunder SO loud but he lightning was crazy bright. It was really scary, but kinda fun.
This Wednesday is a huge holiday here called Diwali. Post about that hopefully coming soon. Also Wednesday is the halfway point of the trip…crazy!
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Weekend trip to Madhurai
Madhurai is a city built around a huge Hindu temple.
On Saturday we visited two NGOs
1. Granny and Grandpa home-
It was basically a retirement home. We talked with many of the men and women there. They all expressed how happy they were, but it was heart breaking to realize that these women and men are a minority. They have it extremely good compared to many other elderly people in India who are abandoned because they cannot take care of themselves and are a burden to the family. As simple roof over their head, a metal bed to sleep on, and people to care for them makes these Grannys and Gramps very blessed and thankful.
2. A women’s home-
This was a home who takes in widows and their families. In order to fund the organization, the women sew, weave, and make things to sell.
Saturday night we went to palace and watched a light show.
We stayed the night at a seminary school that was very interesting. In order to graduate seminary students have to spend a total of 1 year in a slum. The first six months they live in the slums then go to classes. The second six months they live and work in the slums. Cool huh! Talk about getting to know the hearts of the poor.
Sunday we went to the Meenakshi temple. It was HUGE!
Then we visited a Gandhi museum
My favorite part of the trip was our visit to a HIV hospital and orphanage.
Thursday, October 13, 2011
A Much Needed Weekend
I wrote this last week, but did not want to post it:
Lately I have been missing home.
I am enjoying it here, but there are some a lot of people and things I miss.
I miss the view of the mountains.
I miss the smell of Central Oregon.
I miss fresh well water.
I miss my garden.
I miss my friends.
Most of all, I miss my family.
During the five day weekend God knew what I needed:
In the hill station of Ooty I sew plenty of mountains and beautiful scenery.
The air was fresh and pollution free, and there were lots of cows and cow smells, just like home.
I still miss fresh water…
I also still miss my garden, but my host mom made lots of good food!
I made a few new friends this past weekend and am continuing to grow close to the friends within ISP and at BACAS.
I got to spend two days with an amazing family that treated me like their own daughter. I now have a family here in India that lives right across from school!
My Auntie, Uncle and Sister!
Sunday, October 9, 2011
What to do?
A fellow ISP'er wrote this blog I thought I would share. Crazy things happen like this all the time :)
Hope this makes you laugh as much as it made me.
What to Do…
-You go to the bathroom and realize you forgot to bring your toilet paper…
-You travel on a 5 hour bus ride through the mountains with lots of “hairpin” turns. The bus driver beeps the horn and prays no one is coming around the corner as you fly around it..
-You go to the bathroom and find a colony of ants, freak out, and go to the other bathroom..only to find a frog.
-Your host mom asks you if you want more rice. You politely answer, “No thank you, I am satisfied.” She gives you more rice.
-You eat only a little at the church lunch because you are still so full from the extremely large breakfast you were made just 2 hours ago. You get back to your host home. Your host sister tells your mother that you barely ate. She responds with, “My God!” and makes you eat a 2nd lunch.
-Nap time, but you don’t take naps…
- You go to the festival event at the apartment complex even though you are extremely tired from your trip. You sit down to watch. They come on the microphone, look right at you and say “the people sitting in the chairs need to join.” You grab 2 sticks (traditional dance of the North that uses 2 sticks in their dancing) and begin to dance.
-You turn into the main attraction at Tamil Nadu’s highest peak tourist spot. How do you respond? Pretend to not speak English. “No speak English.”
- Every time you walk into your apartment building the security man points to the lift even though you use the stairs just about every time. Just because I am white does not mean I am lazy. =)
-Church starts at 8am, you arrive at 8:30am. Perfect.
-Your director requests a small campfire for worship. You show up to find a 8 feet tall wood pile doused in gasoline.
- The bus is stopped and everyone is asked if they want to try a special mountain cookie. Everyone says no. 5 minutes later everyone is given 3 cookies each and the trip continues.
-You find a kurta you love at the mall. Your host mother tells you, you can not wear it. “Indians don’t wear things like that.”
-A 7 person jeep pulls up. All 12 of you pile in.
-The professor assigns you a 8 page paper and then precedes to ask you if that is okay. What is the proper response?
-You are on a safari. The bus seems to speed up anytime an animal is spotted and you try to take a picture of them. Awesome.
- “You’re up already from your nap!?” You never slept.
-Elevator limit=20 people. You count 24.
-You go out to dinner and upon the owner seeing you, an American, enter the restaurant, Oops I did it Again starts to play.
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Weekends in India
Some weekends we travel and others we stay here in Coimbatore.
This weekend was a “rest weekend,” but there was not much resting being done.
Friday night we went a Gujarati celebration. We ate food then danced all night long. All the girls taught us how to dance. The celebration lasts for 9 days. The girls were telling us how fun the dancing is on the last night. Too bad we will be out of town.
Here are some of the awesome girls who taught us their dances:
It was so fun!
Saturday a few of us took the public bus to go shopping.
On the way there the bus was not too bad.
On the way back it was quite crowded
*I did not get a picture when it was the most crowded because I couldn’t move
Saturday night I went to a professor’s house where we learned how her family celebrates Puja, a Hindu holiday.
I got back to the apartment and was reading peacefully in my room when I heard a scream. There was definitely a GIANT cockroach in our kitchen. Read previous post for details.
Sunday I went to church. The church is called All Souls and is located pretty close to the apartment.
Sunday was also Gandhi’s birthday, so the sermon was based on non-violence and love for enemies.
27 “But to you who are listening I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, 28 bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. 29 If someone slaps you on one cheek, turn to them the other also. If someone takes your coat, do not withhold your shirt from them. 30 Give to everyone who asks you, and if anyone takes what belongs to you, do not demand it back. 31 Do to others as you would have them do to you.
32 “If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? Even sinners love those who love them. 33 And if you do good to those who are good to you, what credit is that to you? Even sinners do that. 34 And if you lend to those from whom you expect repayment, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, expecting to be repaid in full. 35 But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked. 36 Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.
Luke 6:27-36
After church I got to Skype with my family for a little bit. It was so good to talk to them!
The upstairs apartment has internet at times so that is a huge blessing!
Later that day I went to a home goods store to pick up a few things.
Then I watched Slumdog Millionaire for the first time. It was so cool to understand things that I would not have before coming here.
After the movie I tried to do a little homework.
When I got tired of home work I made spaghetti. It actually did not turn out too bad. Making homemade spaghetti sauce it not as hard as I thought it would be.
Sunday night the assistant directors had us over for a yummy dinner of lentil soup. They also had a Bollywood movie for us to watch but I decided to do homework instead.
When homework was finished I took a shower, read my Bible, wrote in my journal, and went to bed.
Because of Puja, our last day of school for the week is Tuesday.
We leave on Wednesday to go to Mudumalai and Ooty. We are going on a safari and visiting an organization called Freedom Firm which works with girls rescued from human trafficking.
When we get back we are going to do home stays with families from All Souls church for the weekend.
Thank you for all your prayers for me and my group. A few things that have been a struggle lately:
Health- many people have been getting sick
Communication- Communication with professors has been an issue
Patience- Everything here takes twice as long as you expect it to… so I have to learn to stop expecting and just go with it. Not only do things take a long time, but suddenly what should be simple things are made so complicated. Patience is something I am working on.
Hope you all are enjoying fall because I sure miss it!
This weekend was a “rest weekend,” but there was not much resting being done.
Friday night we went a Gujarati celebration. We ate food then danced all night long. All the girls taught us how to dance. The celebration lasts for 9 days. The girls were telling us how fun the dancing is on the last night. Too bad we will be out of town.
Here are some of the awesome girls who taught us their dances:
It was so fun!
Saturday a few of us took the public bus to go shopping.
On the way there the bus was not too bad.
On the way back it was quite crowded
Saturday night I went to a professor’s house where we learned how her family celebrates Puja, a Hindu holiday.
I got back to the apartment and was reading peacefully in my room when I heard a scream. There was definitely a GIANT cockroach in our kitchen. Read previous post for details.
Sunday I went to church. The church is called All Souls and is located pretty close to the apartment.
27 “But to you who are listening I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, 28 bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. 29 If someone slaps you on one cheek, turn to them the other also. If someone takes your coat, do not withhold your shirt from them. 30 Give to everyone who asks you, and if anyone takes what belongs to you, do not demand it back. 31 Do to others as you would have them do to you.
32 “If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? Even sinners love those who love them. 33 And if you do good to those who are good to you, what credit is that to you? Even sinners do that. 34 And if you lend to those from whom you expect repayment, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, expecting to be repaid in full. 35 But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked. 36 Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.
Luke 6:27-36
After church I got to Skype with my family for a little bit. It was so good to talk to them!
The upstairs apartment has internet at times so that is a huge blessing!
Later that day I went to a home goods store to pick up a few things.
Then I watched Slumdog Millionaire for the first time. It was so cool to understand things that I would not have before coming here.
After the movie I tried to do a little homework.
When I got tired of home work I made spaghetti. It actually did not turn out too bad. Making homemade spaghetti sauce it not as hard as I thought it would be.
Sunday night the assistant directors had us over for a yummy dinner of lentil soup. They also had a Bollywood movie for us to watch but I decided to do homework instead.
When homework was finished I took a shower, read my Bible, wrote in my journal, and went to bed.
Because of Puja, our last day of school for the week is Tuesday.
We leave on Wednesday to go to Mudumalai and Ooty. We are going on a safari and visiting an organization called Freedom Firm which works with girls rescued from human trafficking.
When we get back we are going to do home stays with families from All Souls church for the weekend.
Thank you for all your prayers for me and my group. A few things that have been a struggle lately:
Health- many people have been getting sick
Communication- Communication with professors has been an issue
Patience- Everything here takes twice as long as you expect it to… so I have to learn to stop expecting and just go with it. Not only do things take a long time, but suddenly what should be simple things are made so complicated. Patience is something I am working on.
Hope you all are enjoying fall because I sure miss it!
Saturday, October 1, 2011
How to Kill a Cockroach
Supplies:
1 fry pan
Toilet Paper
3+ people
Steps:
1. Scream
This ensures that people will come running so you won’t have to kill it yourself.
2. Smash it with a frying pan
The long handle works well for keeping distance.
3. Clean up the smashed cockroach with toilet paper
Paper towels are not commonly used here. But I guess toilet paper isn’t either.
4. Wash pan
Bug guts are not good fried.
I am really good at #1 and occasionally I do #4.
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
A trip to Chennai
Friday night we boarded a train.
Our destination was the state capital, Chennai.
After bug bites, snoring men, and 7 hours, we made it.
The first day we went to an organization called Forward. Forward strives to empower women and give them the resources they need to survive in a male dominate culture. The ISP leaders know the woman who founded the organization from their previous trips to India. The woman is amazing. Her testimony was heartbreaking and heartwarming all at the same time. She was in an abusive relationship for ten years. Instead of letting her hurtful past hold her back, she followed God’s calling to help the oppressed women of India, many who are going through similar abuse experiences. She took us to a slum where many women and children were anticipating our arrival.
They gave us a traditional welcome. Jasmine necklaces, bangles, and face stuff that I do not know the name of.
They shared with us the different groups. Through small loans the women are able to become independent and support themselves and their children.
They also shared the different ways they worship.
Then, we went to St. Thomas Mount. St. Thomas is one of the twelve apostles. At the top of this hill is where they say he was murdered.
We stopped for a tea/coffee break.
Then went to the site where St. Thomas was buried.
St. Thomas Basilica
Our last stop for the night was the beach.
Sunday-
We went to Mahabalipuram
That evening we had free time to go shopping.
Then, once again, got back on a train where we laughed until we cried and tried our best to fall asleep.
I keep forgetting to post my mailing address, so here it is:
Brooklyn Walker
Bishop Appasamy College of Arts and Sciences
India Studies Program
#129, Race Course
Coimbatore, INDIA 641 018
Also, here is the link for the India Studies Program: http://indiastudiesprogram.blogspot.com/
Check out the post about the culinary class! By far my favorite class!
Our destination was the state capital, Chennai.
After bug bites, snoring men, and 7 hours, we made it.
The first day we went to an organization called Forward. Forward strives to empower women and give them the resources they need to survive in a male dominate culture. The ISP leaders know the woman who founded the organization from their previous trips to India. The woman is amazing. Her testimony was heartbreaking and heartwarming all at the same time. She was in an abusive relationship for ten years. Instead of letting her hurtful past hold her back, she followed God’s calling to help the oppressed women of India, many who are going through similar abuse experiences. She took us to a slum where many women and children were anticipating our arrival.
They gave us a traditional welcome. Jasmine necklaces, bangles, and face stuff that I do not know the name of.
They shared with us the different groups. Through small loans the women are able to become independent and support themselves and their children.
They also shared the different ways they worship.
Then, we went to St. Thomas Mount. St. Thomas is one of the twelve apostles. At the top of this hill is where they say he was murdered.
We stopped for a tea/coffee break.
Then went to the site where St. Thomas was buried.
St. Thomas Basilica
Our last stop for the night was the beach.
Sunday-
We went to Mahabalipuram
That evening we had free time to go shopping.
Then, once again, got back on a train where we laughed until we cried and tried our best to fall asleep.
I keep forgetting to post my mailing address, so here it is:
Brooklyn Walker
Bishop Appasamy College of Arts and Sciences
India Studies Program
#129, Race Course
Coimbatore, INDIA 641 018
Also, here is the link for the India Studies Program: http://indiastudiesprogram.blogspot.com/
Check out the post about the culinary class! By far my favorite class!
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Weekly Review
Saturday we went to this thing at school called Freshers. It was basically a talent show for freshman. Funny stuff! We also visited the mall. We got bored waiting for the rest of the group and modeled our purchases.
The aprons are for our cooking class!
Sunday we visited a Sikh temple. Kali and I covering our heads so we could enter the temple.
They taught us about their worship and fed us good food.
The aprons are for our cooking class! Sunday we visited a Sikh temple. Kali and I covering our heads so we could enter the temple.
They taught us about their worship and fed us good food.
The school week was ok. School is school no matter what country you are in :)
Friday night we are taking an overnight train Chennai, the state capital of Tamil Nadu. Shopping, Saint Thomas Church, and Mahabalipuram are some of the things we are doing/visiting!
A Servant's Heart
“The greatest among you will be your servant. For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”
Matthew 23:11-12
God calls us to be humble and serve others. One thing is for sure, Indians know how to serve.
Every day I am in awe of the kindness, respect and hospitality shown by the people here in Coimbatore. Their kindness is not dependent on race or religion. Their kindness is genuine and pure. It is something we can all learn from.
There are so many stories I could share about professors, students and everybody else going out of their way to make our groups feel welcome and comfortable.
I am doing an internship at a local school. I had two guides that went with me, Christy and Jennifer. They are both masters students at BACAS and missed a whole day of classes to help me on my first day. They were the best guides ever and I loved spending the day with them. At the end of the day I thanked them for coming with me. I could not have done it without them. Seriously, they held my hand as we crossed the busiest highway I have ever seen,they answered all my questions and even taught me some Tamil. They got mad at me for thanking them. They said it was “not necessary” because it was their duty. I wish I could remember exactly what they said because it gave me the chills. They basically told me that there was no other way for guests in their country to be treated and that they would do anything to make sure I was comfortable and safe. The most beautiful part was they truly meant it. They do not just ask questions and help to be polite. They truly care.
A few days after the internship I ran in to Christy and Jennifer in the mess. As we were talking she asked, "how are Sam and Taylor?" At first I was caught off guard. But, then I remembered hewr asking about my family the day we went to the internship. It is not like we spent a lot of time talking about my brother and sister. In fact, she spent more time telling me about her family and showed me pictures. I even met her brother as we were walking back to college. Do I remember any of her family members names? Nope. These two girls are a small example of the unselfish love and giving hearts of the Indian people.
Christianity may be a minority here in India, but Christ is clearly visible.
Matthew 23:11-12
God calls us to be humble and serve others. One thing is for sure, Indians know how to serve.
Every day I am in awe of the kindness, respect and hospitality shown by the people here in Coimbatore. Their kindness is not dependent on race or religion. Their kindness is genuine and pure. It is something we can all learn from.
There are so many stories I could share about professors, students and everybody else going out of their way to make our groups feel welcome and comfortable.
I am doing an internship at a local school. I had two guides that went with me, Christy and Jennifer. They are both masters students at BACAS and missed a whole day of classes to help me on my first day. They were the best guides ever and I loved spending the day with them. At the end of the day I thanked them for coming with me. I could not have done it without them. Seriously, they held my hand as we crossed the busiest highway I have ever seen,they answered all my questions and even taught me some Tamil. They got mad at me for thanking them. They said it was “not necessary” because it was their duty. I wish I could remember exactly what they said because it gave me the chills. They basically told me that there was no other way for guests in their country to be treated and that they would do anything to make sure I was comfortable and safe. The most beautiful part was they truly meant it. They do not just ask questions and help to be polite. They truly care.
A few days after the internship I ran in to Christy and Jennifer in the mess. As we were talking she asked, "how are Sam and Taylor?" At first I was caught off guard. But, then I remembered hewr asking about my family the day we went to the internship. It is not like we spent a lot of time talking about my brother and sister. In fact, she spent more time telling me about her family and showed me pictures. I even met her brother as we were walking back to college. Do I remember any of her family members names? Nope. These two girls are a small example of the unselfish love and giving hearts of the Indian people.
Christianity may be a minority here in India, but Christ is clearly visible.
Friday, September 16, 2011
Just plain different
*I started this post on Wednesday, but just now had time to finish it. Sorry it is so long. There is just so much to share. :)
Today marks one whole week spent in India. It seems like I have been here A LOT longer than just a week. I have seen and experienced so much that I cannot comprehend that I have been here 7 days and have a little over three months to go. All that there is to take in and learn makes some days so overwhelming. The little things from taking a bucket shower to walking on the left side of the walking path makes daily life in India a constant challenge. Don’t get me wrong, I am still enjoying India. I think that I just got over the new and exciting stage and am now realizing that this is the place where I am living and have to get use to for the next few months. Here are just a few things that make adjusting to the Indian life tough at times.
Language: Many people here in Coimbatore speak English, but there are still quite a few that don’t. And even if they do speak English, the accent can be hard to understand. I remember the second day we were here and the principal gave us a welcoming speech. I could barely understand a word that she said. Thankfully with each day, the accent is getting easier and easier to understand. It takes a little more than usual concentration to understand professors when they are teaching, but it makes me pay extra special attention, so I guess that is good.
Another aspect of language that is different is not just the pronunciation of words, but the words themselves. Professors use the word “doubt” instead of “concern.” So they will say, “Class, be sure to let me know if you have any doubts.” Another example is majors here are called departments. Students will frequently ask, “what is your department?” In the US we ask, “what is your major?” Here they do not have all the majors we do. When I say I am studying elementary education, most students do not know what I am talking about.
I was so happy when I found three outfits at the second store! They recommended we get five but I thought three was a solid start and by this time I just wanted to go home. Because most of the workers in the store only speak Tamil, some BACAS students helped me and a few other girls out with the checkout process. The process of buying clothes is so complicated! I still don’t understand it, but all that I know is that you pay for your clothes and get a “bill” in India terms. Then your clothes are waiting for you on a different floor for you to pick up. After pick up you can take it to the tailor for free alterations. After paying for my clothes I was so relieved that I was done shopping and the stressful day had finally come to an end. We went downstairs to pick up the order. It was there we were informed that someone else went home with all the things I had bought. It was such a long day and the last thing I wanted to hear was that all that stress and craziness was for nothing. Luckly, this week I have been able to borrow clothes from one of my roommates until some students can take me shopping again.
My roommates Erin and Becky on our first dat of school. What we are wearing is called a Salwar. It is basically a long top, loose pants or leggings, and a scarf.
Food: Ok so overall I think the food is something I could eventually get used to, but I never know what I am eating. Lunch at school always consists of rice and some sort of mushy, spicy stuff. Having the same thing everyday gets old, but it is better than nothing. Also, I have had some really good southern India food in some restaurants.
The real problem is when we have to cook meals ourselves. It is not like American stores where you have all kinds of food you could ever dream of. All the stuff available at the supermarket none of us know what to do with it. All the stuff we do know how to make is usually imported and expensive. On Friday I start a culinary class, so hopefully that will help. Oh and I thought eating with your hands would be fun, but I feel like my hands are never clean and it is tricky to eat with only my right hand.
Attention: Everywhere we go we get stared at. I knew that was going to happen, but sometimes I just want to be normal and blend in. Today I had an internship at a school. I was stared at all day. It is different when we are in a big group, but when I am by myself I notice it way more. They are only curious, and always very friendly, I just am not use to all the attention. I would just simply walk by a classroom window and disrupt class. I asked the two mentors I was with what people were saying and she said they called me a “foreigner” and mostly just curious. A lot of cute little kids would come up to me and ask my name, where I was from, and shake my hand. They were so proper and polite, it was adorable!
Inequality: Girls are not treated as equal. For example in the hostels girls have to be back in their hostel by a certain time (I don’t remember the exact time but it’s early), Like 5 or 6. It makes it hard for us to hang out with the BACAS girls. They get free time for a few hours on Saturday and that is it. One reason for all these rules is it can be dangerous for women to be alone, but this is just one example of how women are suppressed here in India.
Bathrooms: Most of the bathrooms here are what we call “Squattie pottie” and have no toilet paper. Thankfully the bathrooms in our apartments and some at school are regular western style. Another difference in the bathrooms is the shower. We have shower heads in our arpartment but the water pressure is not that great so I take a bucket shower. It is kinda fun! However, I usually do not feel clean after a shower and I think my feet are permanently dirty.
I wanted to be challenged. So here we go. I am being challenged in more ways than I could write about. Getting accustom to this Indian life takes time. I am praying for patience and understanding. I keep having to remind myself that I have only been here a week and over time things will become easier.
Today marks one whole week spent in India. It seems like I have been here A LOT longer than just a week. I have seen and experienced so much that I cannot comprehend that I have been here 7 days and have a little over three months to go. All that there is to take in and learn makes some days so overwhelming. The little things from taking a bucket shower to walking on the left side of the walking path makes daily life in India a constant challenge. Don’t get me wrong, I am still enjoying India. I think that I just got over the new and exciting stage and am now realizing that this is the place where I am living and have to get use to for the next few months. Here are just a few things that make adjusting to the Indian life tough at times.
Language: Many people here in Coimbatore speak English, but there are still quite a few that don’t. And even if they do speak English, the accent can be hard to understand. I remember the second day we were here and the principal gave us a welcoming speech. I could barely understand a word that she said. Thankfully with each day, the accent is getting easier and easier to understand. It takes a little more than usual concentration to understand professors when they are teaching, but it makes me pay extra special attention, so I guess that is good.
Another aspect of language that is different is not just the pronunciation of words, but the words themselves. Professors use the word “doubt” instead of “concern.” So they will say, “Class, be sure to let me know if you have any doubts.” Another example is majors here are called departments. Students will frequently ask, “what is your department?” In the US we ask, “what is your major?” Here they do not have all the majors we do. When I say I am studying elementary education, most students do not know what I am talking about.
Shopping:
Last Saturday professors and students from BACAS took us girls shopping for Indian clothing. It was something I had been looking forward to since I found out about the shopping trip. Little did I know, shopping in India is NOT like shopping in America. First of all the stores we went to had at least 5 floors filled with fabric, saris, salwars, men’s clothing, and so much more. Not only was the store extremely crowded by customers, but there are a bunch of workers waiting around to follow you around the whole store with intentions of helping you. Really, if you spend more than 2 seconds looking at something on the rack they will say either, ”you like” or something else in Tamil which I never understood, and point towards the dressing room. You would think after the dressing room you would be free, but nope, they wait outside asking if you like it and follow you around once again. It is all in good intentions, but it was extremely overwhelming. One mistake I made at the first store was asking if they had a different color of a salwar that I liked. The man behind the counter pulled out every single one that was the same color or had even close to the same design (which was a lot!). This all happened at the first store, so I thought at the second and last store I would be a pro and find some outfits that I liked and not be stressed out by all the people.
I was so happy when I found three outfits at the second store! They recommended we get five but I thought three was a solid start and by this time I just wanted to go home. Because most of the workers in the store only speak Tamil, some BACAS students helped me and a few other girls out with the checkout process. The process of buying clothes is so complicated! I still don’t understand it, but all that I know is that you pay for your clothes and get a “bill” in India terms. Then your clothes are waiting for you on a different floor for you to pick up. After pick up you can take it to the tailor for free alterations. After paying for my clothes I was so relieved that I was done shopping and the stressful day had finally come to an end. We went downstairs to pick up the order. It was there we were informed that someone else went home with all the things I had bought. It was such a long day and the last thing I wanted to hear was that all that stress and craziness was for nothing. Luckly, this week I have been able to borrow clothes from one of my roommates until some students can take me shopping again.
My roommates Erin and Becky on our first dat of school. What we are wearing is called a Salwar. It is basically a long top, loose pants or leggings, and a scarf.
Food: Ok so overall I think the food is something I could eventually get used to, but I never know what I am eating. Lunch at school always consists of rice and some sort of mushy, spicy stuff. Having the same thing everyday gets old, but it is better than nothing. Also, I have had some really good southern India food in some restaurants.
The real problem is when we have to cook meals ourselves. It is not like American stores where you have all kinds of food you could ever dream of. All the stuff available at the supermarket none of us know what to do with it. All the stuff we do know how to make is usually imported and expensive. On Friday I start a culinary class, so hopefully that will help. Oh and I thought eating with your hands would be fun, but I feel like my hands are never clean and it is tricky to eat with only my right hand.
Attention: Everywhere we go we get stared at. I knew that was going to happen, but sometimes I just want to be normal and blend in. Today I had an internship at a school. I was stared at all day. It is different when we are in a big group, but when I am by myself I notice it way more. They are only curious, and always very friendly, I just am not use to all the attention. I would just simply walk by a classroom window and disrupt class. I asked the two mentors I was with what people were saying and she said they called me a “foreigner” and mostly just curious. A lot of cute little kids would come up to me and ask my name, where I was from, and shake my hand. They were so proper and polite, it was adorable!
Inequality: Girls are not treated as equal. For example in the hostels girls have to be back in their hostel by a certain time (I don’t remember the exact time but it’s early), Like 5 or 6. It makes it hard for us to hang out with the BACAS girls. They get free time for a few hours on Saturday and that is it. One reason for all these rules is it can be dangerous for women to be alone, but this is just one example of how women are suppressed here in India.
Bathrooms: Most of the bathrooms here are what we call “Squattie pottie” and have no toilet paper. Thankfully the bathrooms in our apartments and some at school are regular western style. Another difference in the bathrooms is the shower. We have shower heads in our arpartment but the water pressure is not that great so I take a bucket shower. It is kinda fun! However, I usually do not feel clean after a shower and I think my feet are permanently dirty.
I wanted to be challenged. So here we go. I am being challenged in more ways than I could write about. Getting accustom to this Indian life takes time. I am praying for patience and understanding. I keep having to remind myself that I have only been here a week and over time things will become easier.
Sunday, September 11, 2011
Welcome to Coimbatore!
Hi everyone! After A LOT of flying we made it here safely. We got into the Coimbatore airport about noon on Wednesday.
Beautiful Germany sunrise.
Made it to Delhi!
There is so much to share but not a lot of time. Internet is limited, but we are suppose to be able to have internet access every other week or so in the office at school. There are also a few cafes close by that have computers we can use for pretty cheap. So far I love it here! It is very different and a lot to take in, but I am so glad I am here! The group is amazing and I cannot wait to get to know each one of them even more throughout our trip.
We are in really nice apartments according to India standards.
I will be going to school at the Bishop Appasamy College of Arts and Sciences, BACAS for short.
The people of BACAS are amazingly friendly and welcoming. They kept telling us over and over again how excited they were that we had finally arrived. I cannot express enough how awesome their hospitality was. These are just a few of the MANY things they did for our arrival.
Beautiful Germany sunrise.
Made it to Delhi!
There is so much to share but not a lot of time. Internet is limited, but we are suppose to be able to have internet access every other week or so in the office at school. There are also a few cafes close by that have computers we can use for pretty cheap. So far I love it here! It is very different and a lot to take in, but I am so glad I am here! The group is amazing and I cannot wait to get to know each one of them even more throughout our trip.
We are in really nice apartments according to India standards.
I will be going to school at the Bishop Appasamy College of Arts and Sciences, BACAS for short.
The people of BACAS are amazingly friendly and welcoming. They kept telling us over and over again how excited they were that we had finally arrived. I cannot express enough how awesome their hospitality was. These are just a few of the MANY things they did for our arrival.
Thank you all for your prayers!
Love you all!
Brooklyn
Love you all!
Brooklyn
Sunday, August 28, 2011
Why?
So I thought I should start a blog and share about my semester abroad in India :). As my trip gets closer I get both excited and scared. Excited for a new adventure and scared of all the unknown.
The title of my blog (Why India?) is a question I get a lot. I think I have answered the question a different way every time I have been asked. The truth is...I don't know...it just happened. I could have chosen ANYWHERE. Seriously, there there is a study abroad program for almost anywhere in the world. I did not start this whole study abroad process thinking, "I want to go to India." In fact, I knew basically nothing about India except that it is overpopulated and they have gross water. I kept looking for other programs and places to go, but kept coming back to India.
I know without a doubt that India is the place for me this fall. It has been confirmed in more ways than I can count. Even though right now I may not be able to give a clear answer on why I chose India, I hope that by the end of my trip and through this blog I will be able to discover and share why God chose India.
I fly out from Redmond September 4th (a week from today ahhhhhh) and meet the group in Washington DC. I should be arriving in India sometime on Wednesday, September 7th.
I am looking forward to keeping you all updated :)
Love,
Brooklyn
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