The Midway Point--Thoughts and Impressions

To all of my American friends: You simply MUST come to India. You MUST come! All of the pictures and comments and writings cannot accurately describe the wonders that are here. Certainly, the landmarks, monuments, and temples are without comparison, but my optimum experience has been with the "aam aadmi"--a Hindi term for the REAL people of India.

Walking the streets around Janpath is my favorite activity. Everyone on the street has time to stop and make conversation. I've had a thousand conversations with real people--shopkeepers, mothers, young college students and all are eager to share who they are and ask questions about me as well. It was my pleasure to meet two college students recently who shared my exploration of Connaught Place, only because they wished to practice their English. It was delightful!

So many LITTLE things have meant so much to me. Every morning I hear the rapid stream of Hindi from the workers below on the ground and the loud honking of the early traffic. It's like a symphony! I can hear the melodic sounds of the early call to Salatu-l-Fajr(morning prayers) from the tiny mosque around the corner just as morning light appears. I love the brash, aggressive tuk-tuk drivers who insist I go with them to their "cousin's shop" and my favorite "tuk-line" is "I have been waiting JUST for you!"

I had a very powerful experience when I visited the Hanuman Temple. As I was walking around snapping pictures, I almost stepped on a baby, covered by a blanket in the middle of the walkway. I was invited by the grandmother, a beautiful woman with silver hair, swathed in a lavender and pink sari, to sit with her on her rug near the temple entrance. Without words, I sat and watched the avid temple-goers queued, barefoot, food in hand, as they entered the temple. Not a typical tourist experience! And all the more reason I loved it...

While at the Jama Masjid, I met a father and son team who manned the entrance to the Mosque. The Mosque itself was very moving, but my lengthy conversation with the gentleman and his son was equally moving. His son shared facts about his education and the pride in his fluent English was evident. The handsome boy hugged me three times before I left.

There are hundreds more experiences and people stories to share. Everyday here is filled with powerful occurences.

My journey to India is at its midpoint today and I'm very melancholy, realizing my trip half over. I know I should be an optimist and say "I have still another week", but it makes me very sad to think about leaving next Sunday morning.

When I leave, I will be leaving half of my heart in India.