some thoughts and ideas

The transition to Shishya was a smooth one for me. Maybe it was showing up at the same time as another volunteer but this was largely due to the fact that the volunteers that were already here were so warm and welcoming. I wasn’t sure what to expect but everyone here just seems so real to me. They come from lots of different backgrounds but it’s so easy to become close with them and trust them. Abby and Sharon are headed back home on December 20th and Amanda leaves the first week in January. New volunteers will be showing up shortly after Amanda leaves. I only hope I can show the same hospitality and warm welcome I got when I arrived.

The house family for the older boys escaped religious persecution in southern India and when they arrived here, they had nothing. Could you imagine fleeing and leaving everything you have because of your religious affiliation? Absolutely incredible. The family that lives in the small boys home have two children of their own and the big boy family has four children of their own.

Every Sunday night everyone that lives on campus has dinner together outside near the big boys house. (Where the serve the BIGGEST cauldron of rice I've ever seen) I’m so glad I like spicy food. I get it a lot here and it’s DELICOUS. There are about 50 people together for dinner on Sunday. The little boys pile SO much rice on their plate when they eat I wonder where it all goes!!

When students cross their arms in class while they are listening to you, it’s a sign of respect to the teachers. When you ask someone from India a question here and the answer is yes, they nod their head from side to side at a slant and sometimes it looks like they’re saying no!

I know why I really did want to get a black laptop and was disappointed Apple didn’t make them anymore; my white Macbook is starting to look a little dirty! I made a note not to pack white things for India…. and of course the most expensive thing will be an off white when I get back!

Looking ahead, I think I may give up meat for Lent while I’m here. But I don’t think that will be that hard to do since I don’ t think I’ve had meat yet since I’ve been here. I’m a little more reluctant to eat it anyways!

Older men are called Uncle here at Shishya and women, Auntie. Hey Mom and Dad, this place would be a good fit for you guys. Come as volunteers for about 6 months (or less. Some people do it); Mom you work in the school as a teacher and Dad you can help with admin stuff or work around the farm and help with religious education on Sunday. Perfect. I’ll tell them you’re coming and to expect you within the next two years. Or you can come while I’m here: that works too. Whole families have come as volunteers!! You two would work well here. I’m serious!