Dear Diary
[First things first: we're okay and the explosions in Delhi are far, far away from us.]To a certain extent, we've adjusted and many things that were intimidating before have become (more or less) commonplace. But nearly everything is exactly opposite from what we're used to and India's overall effect on me is intense: intense heat, intense rain, intense noise, traffic, activity, poverty and beauty.
Each morning as we drive to the site I feel overwhelmed with gratitude; the simple lifestyle of the villagers really puts things into perspective and I am so pleased to have the opportunity to see this beautiful country. Many things that were once important now seem trivial and superficial; likewise I have come to realize all I take for granted. The conditions are often heartbreaking, but the attitude of many of these people is an inspiration.
When we are working alongside the Tamil men, I feel deeply humbled. Everyday I struggle with a lot of frustrations; I'm discouraged by my own limitations and it's hard to adjust to the way things happen around here (on India time). Learning to let go of my self-will has been an important lesson.
Every night I fall asleep thinking about home. There is so much left to see and do and learn in India, but I often find myself thinking about returning to my loving friends and family. It is a constant struggle between homesickness and appreciating this incredible experience.
posted by Lauren and Travis @ 1:17 PM
4 Comments:
My dearest niece,
What an awesome experience this has been and I can not imagine the emotions you are going through. To think that so many of us do not realize how rich we are in so many ways. We are all truly blessed with God's gifts whether they are here or there. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and feelings, lessons and struggles. I never dreamed I would know someone that would or do something of this magnitude. We love you and have you and Travis in our prayers. lots of love, aunt diane & uncle brad
Travis, just saying hi :) And letting you know that even distant strangers (well, more specifically, me) have you in their thoughts and prayers.
~Maggie~
Wed afternoon here so it has been 4 days since you posted anything. We hope that this is because your project is now moving so rapidly that you don't have time.
HAPPY NEW YEAR. (Just read that it is new years in India - didn't know your time was that much ahead of ours.
Love you, Grandpa
PS If everything is intense, just get out of the tents and peek in one to see the beauty. (you can see I still love puns).
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