Our time in Calcutta has come to an end and sadly we are about to move on. It was up at 5 am and on our way to the Mother by the usual 5.30 am. Our final Mass with the Missionaries of Charity was in some ways rather touching. It is always lovely to see all the Sister's in their ever prayerful and reverent state. This morning our group stood and sung a waiata (song) to Mary at communion time. We also sang the translation. I was very proud of the fantastic effort put in by everyone this morning and we were given compliments on the singing.
After a quick breakfast of chai and bread we were sung to by the rest of the volunteers and the Sisters in charge of supervision of volunteers. This happens for all volunteers on their last day. We were each given a wee gift from Sister as well.
We all headed off to our various Mother Teresa Houses to work as usual, but today we were given special permission to take photos.
So as you can imagine it was washing, cleaning, bed-making, feeding, toileting, massaging for some of the patients and photos, photos, photos.
Most of the students have arrived back at the hotel now and already I am hearing some sad stories about leaving. It is not difficult to get attached to the people we have been working with in the homes. It can even be a little emotional for some. It is comforting to know we have been of some small service. That is consoling.
Everyone is now doing the final stages of packing and for some of our students there appears to be an awful lot more weight to their packs, (all that shopping at the markets)
We are soon about to embark on our final part of the journey. The train trip is going to be an interesting blog I'm sure.
Well sadly we must head off. Calcutta has made a fairly big mark on us all. It is now time for a team meeting. Namaste until Goa
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Saturday, December 26, 2009
Christmas Day
Dear Families and Friends
It's Boxing Day evening here in India.
Christmas Day really began with our final performance of the Christmas Play that the volunteers put on each year. This year it was a comparison of the events leading up to Jesus' birth and and the visit of the Magi with Mother Teresa's divine invitation to start the Missionaries of Charity Order and how she overcame some of the early obstacles that were put in her way. Lots of us were involved in the play or the choir and we performed at Prem Dan, for the Carmelites and finally at Mother House on Christmas eve for the Sisters and all the volunteers.
It was business as usual on Christmas morning and we all headed to our homes for work. Each home put on a different celebration for Christmas including mass during the morning. At Prem Dan, lunch was put on for volunteers and the patients. Everyone was dressed in gold and blue and special effort had been taken with hair and appearance including sparkly bangles. At Kalighat, the women were in blue dresses and instead of zip up fleeces, it was shawls. The men were dressed in orange and blue and had bright red blankets. At Daya Dan, we started with mass and then we continued to have a small party downstairs with cake and juice and small presents for the children - it was lovely.
Once work was over for the day, we had the afternoon free. We met at 5pm on the terrace with everyone in their fancy and finest dress. Santa also made an appearance and delivered a present to each of us! The gitls looked good in their saris and the men wore an array of new dress shirts ranging from classic Indian to coloured numbers from the market. We went to a christmas celebration at the Fair Lawn Hotel which began with the Sallies and Christmas Carols. We had a magic show with Caleb, Sophie, Fraser and John dancing.
This was followed by a very boisterous dinner. The tables were laden with blowers, horns, clackers, drums - you name it, anything that could make a noise. The boys performed a haka after dinner.
Dinner was:
Tomato soup and breadsticks.
Fish meuniere, chips and grapes (!) and fresh peas
Cold turkey and ham, stuffing, beetroot, creamed cauliflower
Plum pudding and cream and mince pies and custard.
It was a different Christmas being away from home. But no less entertaining or joyous. Everyone enjoyed the gifts, the food and the occasion.
We hope you all had as merry a Christmas as we did.
John Strang
It's Boxing Day evening here in India.
Christmas Day really began with our final performance of the Christmas Play that the volunteers put on each year. This year it was a comparison of the events leading up to Jesus' birth and and the visit of the Magi with Mother Teresa's divine invitation to start the Missionaries of Charity Order and how she overcame some of the early obstacles that were put in her way. Lots of us were involved in the play or the choir and we performed at Prem Dan, for the Carmelites and finally at Mother House on Christmas eve for the Sisters and all the volunteers.
It was business as usual on Christmas morning and we all headed to our homes for work. Each home put on a different celebration for Christmas including mass during the morning. At Prem Dan, lunch was put on for volunteers and the patients. Everyone was dressed in gold and blue and special effort had been taken with hair and appearance including sparkly bangles. At Kalighat, the women were in blue dresses and instead of zip up fleeces, it was shawls. The men were dressed in orange and blue and had bright red blankets. At Daya Dan, we started with mass and then we continued to have a small party downstairs with cake and juice and small presents for the children - it was lovely.
Once work was over for the day, we had the afternoon free. We met at 5pm on the terrace with everyone in their fancy and finest dress. Santa also made an appearance and delivered a present to each of us! The gitls looked good in their saris and the men wore an array of new dress shirts ranging from classic Indian to coloured numbers from the market. We went to a christmas celebration at the Fair Lawn Hotel which began with the Sallies and Christmas Carols. We had a magic show with Caleb, Sophie, Fraser and John dancing.
This was followed by a very boisterous dinner. The tables were laden with blowers, horns, clackers, drums - you name it, anything that could make a noise. The boys performed a haka after dinner.
Dinner was:
Tomato soup and breadsticks.
Fish meuniere, chips and grapes (!) and fresh peas
Cold turkey and ham, stuffing, beetroot, creamed cauliflower
Plum pudding and cream and mince pies and custard.
It was a different Christmas being away from home. But no less entertaining or joyous. Everyone enjoyed the gifts, the food and the occasion.
We hope you all had as merry a Christmas as we did.
John Strang
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Christmas Eve Rest day
Namaste everyone
Today we are resting after a pretty intense day of working at our various Mother Teresa homes. Our day starts with the walk from our hotel to the Mother Teresa House where we attend Mass with the Sisters. They are so dedicated and their singing is music to our ears. They are ever so reverent and humble. It is just amazing being in their presence,(in their white with blue stripe attire)
after Mass we go downstairs and have breakfast of chai tea (which is delicious) a banana and a piece of bread. All the volunteers gather there and it has been a good time for our students to mix and mingle with people from all around the globe. A few addresses have been exchanged. It is good to see our group networking.
After breakfast we all head off in our various groups and catch buses which take us to the Mission of charity Houses that we work at.
Again, the bus ride to our destination continues to intrigue me just as everything else does. The constant buzz of traffic, people, it never seems to let up.
A typical day at Prem Dan which is home to the physically and mentally disabled men and women starts with washing. I was spent some time treading washing in a huge tin tub, a bit like stomping grapes and then helping the ladies hand rub before being passed along what I would describe as a conveyer-belt type system to the first concrete tub, rinsed again and passed along to the next and then after 4 rinses, the clothes are rung out and put into tin pales and carried all the way up the stairs to the roof-top where a group of patients are waiting to hang out the washing. Blankets are the worst to wash- they are heavy and harder to ring out. My hands have never felt so soft from washing. Many clothes are just laid out on the roof as well as lines.
after washing there is cleaning, this can be wiping flat metal beds down with disinfectant and then plastisic matresses, before beds are made up. The bed coverings are very basic but the sisters are very clean.
By this time it is usually morning tea and all the volunteers gather outside under a pergola where chai is available and these protein biscuits (one is equivalent to 2 and a half eggs)Incidentally these are provided by the Dutch Army - something Mother Teresa arranged and there was some concern the supply of these would dry up after her death, but we are told it has continued on. A great source of protein for the patients.
Lunch arrives soon after this and we then help feed patients and help clean up the dishes. In the womens section there are 2 ladies who have had spinal compression operations as a result of TB. Unfortunately for them it has been complicated and rehabilitation will be difficult; one of the ladies is paraylised from the waist down. One of the things we have been able to do for this 32 yr old mother of 4 has been muscle tone exercises, shown to us by a voulunteer Italian doctor. Not only do we exercise but we have been getting both these women up on their feet and assisting them to take steps with the aid of a walker. A very slow but rewarding process. We also get around the ward when we can and give some of the ladies a massage just to give them some form of loving and relaxing comfort to their long day. There are many sad sights and our compassion and loving hands gives some small relief. That in itself is a hopeful and rewarding thought.
Usually after this we all head back to the Mother House by bus again or tuktuk and from the Mother House we head back to the hotel.
Yesterday we arrived back to find no water to any of the rooms in our hotel. For health and safety reasons Marty organised another hotel which fortunately for us is just next door. Our rooms are more luxuriant and everyone has demonstrated their ability show patience, flexiblity and resiliance extremely well. In fact they like the change and the televisions in the rooms have proved popular. some of the boys have watched a couple of movies and the Discovery channel. Aparently there are over 80n channels.
The address for our hotel is: 11/1 DR.M. Ishaque Road (Kyd Street, Kolkata - 700 016
Phone: 9133-22178487 Mobile 9831621481/9831439585 Fax 91-33-2240 5623
Last night we attended the Chistmas Paigent which was performed for the Carmelite Sisters, at their monestry. This was very special and the volunteers in the play were from many countries, but it was pleasing to see our group involved. Caleb was the Angel Gabriel, John, Graeme & Ollie were the 3 shepherds, Lizzie was a gorgeous angel, Grace performed a stunning dance and Charlotte and Hamish were on props and lighting. The choir also consisted of some of our group, Margaret-Mary, Georgina and Ainsley. The Sisters enjoyed the performance and Mother of the Carmelites spoke after, expressing her thankfulness and gratitude. She also wished us warm greetings.
Tomorrow is Christmas day and so far we have only seen the odd santa hat, a few decorations here and there. It seems so strange being here, knowing that there is probably so much Christmas festivity going on at home. It will be a 5 am start for us tomorrow, with Mass, breakfast at the Mother Teresa House and then work as usual. We will finish around 1 - 2 pm and head back to the hotel where we will start getting ready for our own Christmas celebration. So far most of us have bought some kind of Indian attire to wear tomorrow. There are some glamourous sarees and pashminas and the boys have all kinds of Indian tops to wear. We are all heading off the hotel around the road and Santa (yeehaa) is going to be there. We are all excited and no-one so far seems too perturbed they are missing out on their NZ Christmas. In fact there is definately an element of great anticipation and wonder.
the gifts we have bought each other will be opened with joy I'm sure.
We are all in good spirits and I am pleased NO ONE is sick. There seems to be some let up in sore tums and bums for the meantime anyway.
Merry Christmas Everyone and God bless. Namaste
Today we are resting after a pretty intense day of working at our various Mother Teresa homes. Our day starts with the walk from our hotel to the Mother Teresa House where we attend Mass with the Sisters. They are so dedicated and their singing is music to our ears. They are ever so reverent and humble. It is just amazing being in their presence,(in their white with blue stripe attire)
after Mass we go downstairs and have breakfast of chai tea (which is delicious) a banana and a piece of bread. All the volunteers gather there and it has been a good time for our students to mix and mingle with people from all around the globe. A few addresses have been exchanged. It is good to see our group networking.
After breakfast we all head off in our various groups and catch buses which take us to the Mission of charity Houses that we work at.
Again, the bus ride to our destination continues to intrigue me just as everything else does. The constant buzz of traffic, people, it never seems to let up.
A typical day at Prem Dan which is home to the physically and mentally disabled men and women starts with washing. I was spent some time treading washing in a huge tin tub, a bit like stomping grapes and then helping the ladies hand rub before being passed along what I would describe as a conveyer-belt type system to the first concrete tub, rinsed again and passed along to the next and then after 4 rinses, the clothes are rung out and put into tin pales and carried all the way up the stairs to the roof-top where a group of patients are waiting to hang out the washing. Blankets are the worst to wash- they are heavy and harder to ring out. My hands have never felt so soft from washing. Many clothes are just laid out on the roof as well as lines.
after washing there is cleaning, this can be wiping flat metal beds down with disinfectant and then plastisic matresses, before beds are made up. The bed coverings are very basic but the sisters are very clean.
By this time it is usually morning tea and all the volunteers gather outside under a pergola where chai is available and these protein biscuits (one is equivalent to 2 and a half eggs)Incidentally these are provided by the Dutch Army - something Mother Teresa arranged and there was some concern the supply of these would dry up after her death, but we are told it has continued on. A great source of protein for the patients.
Lunch arrives soon after this and we then help feed patients and help clean up the dishes. In the womens section there are 2 ladies who have had spinal compression operations as a result of TB. Unfortunately for them it has been complicated and rehabilitation will be difficult; one of the ladies is paraylised from the waist down. One of the things we have been able to do for this 32 yr old mother of 4 has been muscle tone exercises, shown to us by a voulunteer Italian doctor. Not only do we exercise but we have been getting both these women up on their feet and assisting them to take steps with the aid of a walker. A very slow but rewarding process. We also get around the ward when we can and give some of the ladies a massage just to give them some form of loving and relaxing comfort to their long day. There are many sad sights and our compassion and loving hands gives some small relief. That in itself is a hopeful and rewarding thought.
Usually after this we all head back to the Mother House by bus again or tuktuk and from the Mother House we head back to the hotel.
Yesterday we arrived back to find no water to any of the rooms in our hotel. For health and safety reasons Marty organised another hotel which fortunately for us is just next door. Our rooms are more luxuriant and everyone has demonstrated their ability show patience, flexiblity and resiliance extremely well. In fact they like the change and the televisions in the rooms have proved popular. some of the boys have watched a couple of movies and the Discovery channel. Aparently there are over 80n channels.
The address for our hotel is: 11/1 DR.M. Ishaque Road (Kyd Street, Kolkata - 700 016
Phone: 9133-22178487 Mobile 9831621481/9831439585 Fax 91-33-2240 5623
Last night we attended the Chistmas Paigent which was performed for the Carmelite Sisters, at their monestry. This was very special and the volunteers in the play were from many countries, but it was pleasing to see our group involved. Caleb was the Angel Gabriel, John, Graeme & Ollie were the 3 shepherds, Lizzie was a gorgeous angel, Grace performed a stunning dance and Charlotte and Hamish were on props and lighting. The choir also consisted of some of our group, Margaret-Mary, Georgina and Ainsley. The Sisters enjoyed the performance and Mother of the Carmelites spoke after, expressing her thankfulness and gratitude. She also wished us warm greetings.
Tomorrow is Christmas day and so far we have only seen the odd santa hat, a few decorations here and there. It seems so strange being here, knowing that there is probably so much Christmas festivity going on at home. It will be a 5 am start for us tomorrow, with Mass, breakfast at the Mother Teresa House and then work as usual. We will finish around 1 - 2 pm and head back to the hotel where we will start getting ready for our own Christmas celebration. So far most of us have bought some kind of Indian attire to wear tomorrow. There are some glamourous sarees and pashminas and the boys have all kinds of Indian tops to wear. We are all heading off the hotel around the road and Santa (yeehaa) is going to be there. We are all excited and no-one so far seems too perturbed they are missing out on their NZ Christmas. In fact there is definately an element of great anticipation and wonder.
the gifts we have bought each other will be opened with joy I'm sure.
We are all in good spirits and I am pleased NO ONE is sick. There seems to be some let up in sore tums and bums for the meantime anyway.
Merry Christmas Everyone and God bless. Namaste
Friday, December 18, 2009
The rehabilitation centre for leprosy
A view from one of the adults.
First full day in Kolkata and what a day - sorry to say that over and over and over and over.... but today we had the most extraordinary train ride.
We were up at 5am to be ready down stairs at 5.30am to walk to Mother House for mass at 6am. Very nice walking through relatively calm streets in the near dark. Relatively dark as only half of Kolkata was up cleaning, cleaning cars, beginning work on any number of possibilities. Mass is mainly the sisters but any volunteers and any others including us. We then caught the bus to catch the train to take us out to Titigargh - a self sustaining rehabilitation centre set up by Mother Teresa in 1957 for leprosy sufferers. It has turned into something rather big - the healed basically run it and it includes a garden, several fishponds weaving industry, prosethetic business, shoe making. There are also a number of houses for the families of any sick who are in the ward part. It's very exciting to see such centres because they are about dealing to the fundamental problem of leprosy in particular (driven still by fear here, families cast out from villages etc) and poverty in general. It is overlooked/seen by the Brothers of Charity (a man answer to the Sisters of Charity) but is not missionary in any direct way - I think there was a place for hindu worship in the complex as well as mass being said and the Brothers live in the Muslim quarter of Titgargh. We were taken round by Bother Henry who was very chatty. The land the centre is on is on either side of the railway line and was not wanted by the government. Mother Teresa was clearly very persuasive. In her first visits there 50 years ago, she met under a tree. Not so now - all in place. These are the kinds of centres that she established and to which volunteers go everyday. Not this one - it is staffed by ex patients. Today we saw all kinds of leprosy deformities including a ward of blind people. We walked though singing (the National Anthem, Te Aroha and Silent Night) and also saw former sufferers with missing limbs (including hands) nursing and dressing the wounds of currently sufferers.
It was a hot morning but very inspiring if you are bummed out about the state of things here and the impossibility of it all. A train then stopped on the tracks and to get round it we had to walk into Titigagh itself to cross the over bridge. Then the excitement began. The first train arrived and Marty had primed us to force our way on together with all the other people also trying to get on (and what you have to remember here is this is a train where people are already handing off the side - I kid you not). The trains stop for max 30 seconds if that. Our first attempt was a debacle with a couple of people making it on and then being pushed and pulled off. We we were all rather taken aback at the job in hand and I had visions of us taking all day to get on the train. The second train duly arrived and by this stage we were more strategic, breaking into smaller groups. We surged onto the train and by this imagine pushing your way into a ruby scrum where people are pushing you from behind and the people in the scrum are pushing you out. There is equality in the sexes here when it comes to pushing and shoving - oh my god. With no idea who had got on (in fact forgot to say, first try, Sam Moffit got on and rode the distance on his own - a panic in itself but a gorgeous boy who got off at the right place and sat and waited), Jan, Bernie and I with Caleb, Fraser and Hamish and Courtenay and Georgina made it though the door. The train set off as we were still making it on and away we went. We had instructions to get off at Dum Dum, which was five stations away. So you have an extremely full train and at each of the four stops before Dum Dum about 10 people got on each time. You have to keep your passport and money stuff safe so we are huddled together protecting the girls and trying not to pee yourself (this from a person who doesn't close the toilet door). The boys were brilliant in holding their ground because we couldn't afford to get too far from the door - getting on the train is one thing but then we had to get off and remember train stops for 30 max - but actually it's more like 15 seconds - I am not joking. It was stressful so having sung all morning we started another round of singing. It went down a treat but made no extra room. The other groups in the other carriages heard us and couldn't believe we were singin. Meanwhile, Kyle had got Rosemary on to the Women's Only Carriage and was abused the whole way by the front row forward Indian women (not in size but in brute force). All you could really do was laugh as we were all groped, pushed, lifted up (I could not put my left foot down the whole way). What a riot. When we got off, amazingly every one had made it and there was Sam - much to everyone's relief.
First full day in Kolkata and what a day - sorry to say that over and over and over and over.... but today we had the most extraordinary train ride.
We were up at 5am to be ready down stairs at 5.30am to walk to Mother House for mass at 6am. Very nice walking through relatively calm streets in the near dark. Relatively dark as only half of Kolkata was up cleaning, cleaning cars, beginning work on any number of possibilities. Mass is mainly the sisters but any volunteers and any others including us. We then caught the bus to catch the train to take us out to Titigargh - a self sustaining rehabilitation centre set up by Mother Teresa in 1957 for leprosy sufferers. It has turned into something rather big - the healed basically run it and it includes a garden, several fishponds weaving industry, prosethetic business, shoe making. There are also a number of houses for the families of any sick who are in the ward part. It's very exciting to see such centres because they are about dealing to the fundamental problem of leprosy in particular (driven still by fear here, families cast out from villages etc) and poverty in general. It is overlooked/seen by the Brothers of Charity (a man answer to the Sisters of Charity) but is not missionary in any direct way - I think there was a place for hindu worship in the complex as well as mass being said and the Brothers live in the Muslim quarter of Titgargh. We were taken round by Bother Henry who was very chatty. The land the centre is on is on either side of the railway line and was not wanted by the government. Mother Teresa was clearly very persuasive. In her first visits there 50 years ago, she met under a tree. Not so now - all in place. These are the kinds of centres that she established and to which volunteers go everyday. Not this one - it is staffed by ex patients. Today we saw all kinds of leprosy deformities including a ward of blind people. We walked though singing (the National Anthem, Te Aroha and Silent Night) and also saw former sufferers with missing limbs (including hands) nursing and dressing the wounds of currently sufferers.
It was a hot morning but very inspiring if you are bummed out about the state of things here and the impossibility of it all. A train then stopped on the tracks and to get round it we had to walk into Titigagh itself to cross the over bridge. Then the excitement began. The first train arrived and Marty had primed us to force our way on together with all the other people also trying to get on (and what you have to remember here is this is a train where people are already handing off the side - I kid you not). The trains stop for max 30 seconds if that. Our first attempt was a debacle with a couple of people making it on and then being pushed and pulled off. We we were all rather taken aback at the job in hand and I had visions of us taking all day to get on the train. The second train duly arrived and by this stage we were more strategic, breaking into smaller groups. We surged onto the train and by this imagine pushing your way into a ruby scrum where people are pushing you from behind and the people in the scrum are pushing you out. There is equality in the sexes here when it comes to pushing and shoving - oh my god. With no idea who had got on (in fact forgot to say, first try, Sam Moffit got on and rode the distance on his own - a panic in itself but a gorgeous boy who got off at the right place and sat and waited), Jan, Bernie and I with Caleb, Fraser and Hamish and Courtenay and Georgina made it though the door. The train set off as we were still making it on and away we went. We had instructions to get off at Dum Dum, which was five stations away. So you have an extremely full train and at each of the four stops before Dum Dum about 10 people got on each time. You have to keep your passport and money stuff safe so we are huddled together protecting the girls and trying not to pee yourself (this from a person who doesn't close the toilet door). The boys were brilliant in holding their ground because we couldn't afford to get too far from the door - getting on the train is one thing but then we had to get off and remember train stops for 30 max - but actually it's more like 15 seconds - I am not joking. It was stressful so having sung all morning we started another round of singing. It went down a treat but made no extra room. The other groups in the other carriages heard us and couldn't believe we were singin. Meanwhile, Kyle had got Rosemary on to the Women's Only Carriage and was abused the whole way by the front row forward Indian women (not in size but in brute force). All you could really do was laugh as we were all groped, pushed, lifted up (I could not put my left foot down the whole way). What a riot. When we got off, amazingly every one had made it and there was Sam - much to everyone's relief.
The Mother Teresa Homes
Today was the first day of our voluntary work in Calcutta. Everyone went to a variety of homes and from the feedback everyone seemed to enjoy it.
Everyone had so many interesting things to report back on, differing from massive bedsores, violent toddlers and the condition that some of the patients were in. I think this was a real eye opener for some of us travellers, we all realised how insignificant some of our "injuries" are at home. All of the Sister's and other volunteers are really nice people and I feel now seeing what they do. Alot of us have much more respect for what they do now than before. What made the volunteers helpful was the fact they help us to fit into some of the roles that needed to be filled.
Also today a group of students went to the Mother House to participate in the Christmas play that the Sister's are putting on. Practises will probably be after work each day until the performance on Christmas day. It was good to be able to share all our reflections at the end of the day as a group.
At this point everyone is feeling fine and there are no major medical problems within the group.
Ben Welsh STC
Everyone had so many interesting things to report back on, differing from massive bedsores, violent toddlers and the condition that some of the patients were in. I think this was a real eye opener for some of us travellers, we all realised how insignificant some of our "injuries" are at home. All of the Sister's and other volunteers are really nice people and I feel now seeing what they do. Alot of us have much more respect for what they do now than before. What made the volunteers helpful was the fact they help us to fit into some of the roles that needed to be filled.
Also today a group of students went to the Mother House to participate in the Christmas play that the Sister's are putting on. Practises will probably be after work each day until the performance on Christmas day. It was good to be able to share all our reflections at the end of the day as a group.
At this point everyone is feeling fine and there are no major medical problems within the group.
Ben Welsh STC
Thursday, December 17, 2009
First 2 days in Calcutta
Well we got off our 2nd overnight train ride at about 9 in the morning. I think now are are starting to get adjusted to the crampness and the noise of Indian trains and most the group even managed to get a bit of sleep. Marty gave us a warning about the intensity and crowds of Calcutta station, but we managed to get through the gate and caught taxis to the fablous Hotel Crystal. In true India style the floor and stairs of the hotel are made out of beautiful marble, but the rooms are fairly average. Not quite as good as Surya Hotel but defenity beats Hotal Namasker. With hot running water and a clean enough room though, there were few complaints.
Later in the day we walked to the Mother Teresa home and after 3 attempts we finally turned up at the right place. We enrolled and were given instructions about our time at the homes. Its important to realise that these Homes are HOMES not tourist attractions. The dedication and spirituallity of the Sisters blew us away, with many of us, coming to turn with these people giving there lives to God and its not just a job for them. We then visited the Mother Teresa musuem. We were all memorised by how this woman lived so simply and recieved so little but gave so much love. We learnt that its not not how much we give but how much love we put in. Seeing where Mother Teresa lived for so many years was amazing, how such a famous and loved person could live so simply and just on the bare essentials.
Today we got up at 5 in the morning to go to mass. Thursday is meant to be the Sisters day off but it still means 6am mass for them. We later meant Joan a women who worked amongst the poor in Calcutta and was going to take us to the Brothers home for Leperosy in outer Calcutta. We were told the metro bus and train rides were a fight and it was survival of the fittest, this was not a understatement. We missed our first train but managed to get on the 2nd, it was a bit crowded but ok.
We were inspired by the Brothers work with the Leperosy patients and how 7 brothers could do so much. We saw how proud the patients and ex-patients were to be able to work and be treated like normal people. I felt as though we made the patients day as we sang as we walked through the wards. The Brothers long term planning and goals are inspiriational as we see them encourage the ideas of economic and religious development and being self-sufficient.
And Finally the train ride home... we were told it was going to be busier... it was. We tried to get on the first train but it was so packed only 2 people could get home. When the next train stopped, it was an all out fight to the finish to get on that train but we managed to get on. For the people from the group in my carriage there was 6cm and 1 layer of Indians between us and the open door, by the end of the ride there was 15cm between us and the door and about 5 layers of Indians. Being used as a battering ram to get through the crowds to get out when the train stopped was an experience we will never forget. The expression "being packed liked sardines" does not do this experience justice it was far worse. People in our group started to sing Christmas carols to liven spirits, we got a few funny looks and stopped when we realised we were surronded by Hindu's. But hey we lived...just.
We are excited and nervous about our first day at the homes tommorrow and eagerly await the challenge.
Caleb Grove SKC.
Later in the day we walked to the Mother Teresa home and after 3 attempts we finally turned up at the right place. We enrolled and were given instructions about our time at the homes. Its important to realise that these Homes are HOMES not tourist attractions. The dedication and spirituallity of the Sisters blew us away, with many of us, coming to turn with these people giving there lives to God and its not just a job for them. We then visited the Mother Teresa musuem. We were all memorised by how this woman lived so simply and recieved so little but gave so much love. We learnt that its not not how much we give but how much love we put in. Seeing where Mother Teresa lived for so many years was amazing, how such a famous and loved person could live so simply and just on the bare essentials.
Today we got up at 5 in the morning to go to mass. Thursday is meant to be the Sisters day off but it still means 6am mass for them. We later meant Joan a women who worked amongst the poor in Calcutta and was going to take us to the Brothers home for Leperosy in outer Calcutta. We were told the metro bus and train rides were a fight and it was survival of the fittest, this was not a understatement. We missed our first train but managed to get on the 2nd, it was a bit crowded but ok.
We were inspired by the Brothers work with the Leperosy patients and how 7 brothers could do so much. We saw how proud the patients and ex-patients were to be able to work and be treated like normal people. I felt as though we made the patients day as we sang as we walked through the wards. The Brothers long term planning and goals are inspiriational as we see them encourage the ideas of economic and religious development and being self-sufficient.
And Finally the train ride home... we were told it was going to be busier... it was. We tried to get on the first train but it was so packed only 2 people could get home. When the next train stopped, it was an all out fight to the finish to get on that train but we managed to get on. For the people from the group in my carriage there was 6cm and 1 layer of Indians between us and the open door, by the end of the ride there was 15cm between us and the door and about 5 layers of Indians. Being used as a battering ram to get through the crowds to get out when the train stopped was an experience we will never forget. The expression "being packed liked sardines" does not do this experience justice it was far worse. People in our group started to sing Christmas carols to liven spirits, we got a few funny looks and stopped when we realised we were surronded by Hindu's. But hey we lived...just.
We are excited and nervous about our first day at the homes tommorrow and eagerly await the challenge.
Caleb Grove SKC.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Varanasi
Getting off the train into Varanasi was a great feeling after a 9 hour journey. The sleeper train was incredibly cramped seeing the bunk beds were three high. Although the train station was not as crowded as previous ones it still seemed busy for the time of morning, after we were picked up and taken for a bumpy ride to the Surya Hotel. We were pleased to see that our rooms had comfortable beds and running hot water, unlike some of the rooms in New Delhi. Also to much of our surprises it also had a pool.
After a nice day of relaxation we prepared for our journey to the Ganges River. Here we saw many religious people bathing and the area that people were cremated. People are cremated here after being washed in the holy water of the Ganges as they believe it cleanses them before they go to heaven. It was amazing to see that in some areas people were swimming and bathing just downstream from where you will find dead animals and bodies.
One of the most interesting features that all religions share is the belief in one God. It was also quite amazing to see that people practice their religion openly and that it is a part of their everyday life whereas most Christians will only go to church on Sunday.
Later that night Classical musicians and Dancers put on a show for us and even though it was long it was enjoyable. The instruments they used looked old fashioned but they sounded great. the dancers wore bells on their ankles which made a lot of noise when they moved. The man playing the odd looking guitar was incredibly skilled and played so quickly you could hardly see his fingers.
There was another opportunity for us to go to the Ganges for another visit and 18 of us went. We spent some time watching a cremation ceremony taking place. We also saw a 6 month old baby who had died of an illness being ceremonially attached to a piece of rock and dropped into the river. Females are not allowed at the cremation area which makes it harder for mothers and wives to mourn over their loss. This created many
emotions within the group. Our group found this very saddening and it was hard to comprehend what was going on around us.
by Ollie ans George
After a nice day of relaxation we prepared for our journey to the Ganges River. Here we saw many religious people bathing and the area that people were cremated. People are cremated here after being washed in the holy water of the Ganges as they believe it cleanses them before they go to heaven. It was amazing to see that in some areas people were swimming and bathing just downstream from where you will find dead animals and bodies.
One of the most interesting features that all religions share is the belief in one God. It was also quite amazing to see that people practice their religion openly and that it is a part of their everyday life whereas most Christians will only go to church on Sunday.
Later that night Classical musicians and Dancers put on a show for us and even though it was long it was enjoyable. The instruments they used looked old fashioned but they sounded great. the dancers wore bells on their ankles which made a lot of noise when they moved. The man playing the odd looking guitar was incredibly skilled and played so quickly you could hardly see his fingers.
There was another opportunity for us to go to the Ganges for another visit and 18 of us went. We spent some time watching a cremation ceremony taking place. We also saw a 6 month old baby who had died of an illness being ceremonially attached to a piece of rock and dropped into the river. Females are not allowed at the cremation area which makes it harder for mothers and wives to mourn over their loss. This created many
emotions within the group. Our group found this very saddening and it was hard to comprehend what was going on around us.
by Ollie ans George
Sunday, December 13, 2009
St Columbus School visit
As mentioned, the taxi groups boarded the tuktuks, (3 of us squashed in a tuktuk - knees up around our waists- well for some of us anyway - A boy in each, with rupees from Marty, ready for payment) from the top of the main bazaar near the railway station and we negotiated our way through the mass of tuktuks,cows, camels, hand carts, cars, trucks with people spilling out from doors and the back of the truck. It is absolutely mind-boggling alright. It really is a mission in itself to get from A to B and not remain calm. Trysh, your traffic officer skills would be certainly put to the test here. I liken it to Russian roulette on the road. (joke!!!) These drivers are actually expert at what they do - despite my white knuckles from holding on for dear life.
Arriving at the Sacred Heart church where St Columbus school is nestled in the back was interesting. At the gates to the church we were met by the beggars, young mothers with babies stradled on their hips, tiny wee children - very versed at approaching tourist for money. All with their hands out motioning to their mouths, indicating they need money for food. This happens all the time. Our students are becoming oblivious to these plea's, which is a good thing.
Brother Lenny was most welcoming and took us for a tour around the college. Unfortunately, the boys were finishing exams and we did not exchange conversation with them. We had lunch in the college cafeteria and Brother went over aspects Social Justice and gave us background on the school and what they do to address some of the needs of the poor. From 6 pm each night until 6 am in the morning the brothers take in all the lepers and beggars and feed them and give them overnight shelter. When we arrived they were there already waiting. An absolute sorry sight.
We ended our session at the school with a song and again a fantastic haka, lead by Kyle and because we were in the school cafe the acoustics were amazing - Those beautiful boys raised the roof. Brother Lenny told me he had goose-bumps. We left him with a copy of Canterbury Tales, a NZ calender and a copy of the CD 'Earth Whisperer'
The students are handling this whole new cultural situation with an amazing responsibility. They encounter each new experience with an open and tolerant manner. I am very proud of this fantastic bunch of kids.
We left the Namasker Hotel (some of us sad to leave this vibrant part of Delhi which pulsates with a life and hum of its own) and walked laiden with our back-packs to the railway station. The 2hr train journey from Delhi to Agra was good. All along the way you see shacks and hovels and people on their way to goodness knows where with baskets on their heads or pushing carts or selling their produce - it's ongoing.
Another eye-opener when we arrived in Agra. Beggars at you like bees to honey. Some of the sights at the station as we boarded our bus were mind-numbing. Deformity and extreme poverty. One man was quite contorted and he had a foot that looked like it had elephantitis. It was so gross! Just as you try and process this some other extreme sight is right there at you.
Taj Mahl visit: The hawkers were at us like flies the moment we got of the bus. I think our students are getting good at saying NO, even better they are learning not make use eye-contact.
The Taj is simply an amazing sight. We were all pretty much in awe of this incredible man-made monumental piece of architecture. It really is a wonderful sight and as you can imagine camera's clicked like nothing on earth, as the students and adults included had their picture taken in front of it.
We visited the Red Fort after lunch which was also an incredible experience and with both visits we had the luxury of a guide. You have to listen hard to the Indian accent though. From the fort we went for dinner before heading off to the railway station.
Picture this! All back-packs off and all of us surrounding them.
That was us on the number One platform waiting for our train and true to form, it was running late. Running late was okay BUT...the RATS running over the railway lines and mice running around our pack-packs were not. Again poverty all around us. It's constant, it's the way it is here. I think we are getting used to.
The train arrived yeehaa. We were all given our bunk numbers and we squeezed our way down the aisles locating our bunks. Marty did tell us there could be the odd Indian in some of our beds and sure enough there were. Well at least in 2 of our beds (The ladies) anyway. I found it extremely difficult to have to ask a lady with her sleeping baby and old father to vacate our bunks. They did and for the rest of the journey I slept with one eye open always checking our back-packs which were chained under our beds.
This journey enabled most of our students to get a reasonable sleep. One of our boys has had first hand experience of vomitting and we have pretty much stablised this now. So far three students have had upset tummies and one has had a mild case of Dehli belly. At this stage we are managing to get on top of our illnesses.
Varansi is another whole new venture. I will get one of the students to give you their take on this part of our journey.
Arriving at the Sacred Heart church where St Columbus school is nestled in the back was interesting. At the gates to the church we were met by the beggars, young mothers with babies stradled on their hips, tiny wee children - very versed at approaching tourist for money. All with their hands out motioning to their mouths, indicating they need money for food. This happens all the time. Our students are becoming oblivious to these plea's, which is a good thing.
Brother Lenny was most welcoming and took us for a tour around the college. Unfortunately, the boys were finishing exams and we did not exchange conversation with them. We had lunch in the college cafeteria and Brother went over aspects Social Justice and gave us background on the school and what they do to address some of the needs of the poor. From 6 pm each night until 6 am in the morning the brothers take in all the lepers and beggars and feed them and give them overnight shelter. When we arrived they were there already waiting. An absolute sorry sight.
We ended our session at the school with a song and again a fantastic haka, lead by Kyle and because we were in the school cafe the acoustics were amazing - Those beautiful boys raised the roof. Brother Lenny told me he had goose-bumps. We left him with a copy of Canterbury Tales, a NZ calender and a copy of the CD 'Earth Whisperer'
The students are handling this whole new cultural situation with an amazing responsibility. They encounter each new experience with an open and tolerant manner. I am very proud of this fantastic bunch of kids.
We left the Namasker Hotel (some of us sad to leave this vibrant part of Delhi which pulsates with a life and hum of its own) and walked laiden with our back-packs to the railway station. The 2hr train journey from Delhi to Agra was good. All along the way you see shacks and hovels and people on their way to goodness knows where with baskets on their heads or pushing carts or selling their produce - it's ongoing.
Another eye-opener when we arrived in Agra. Beggars at you like bees to honey. Some of the sights at the station as we boarded our bus were mind-numbing. Deformity and extreme poverty. One man was quite contorted and he had a foot that looked like it had elephantitis. It was so gross! Just as you try and process this some other extreme sight is right there at you.
Taj Mahl visit: The hawkers were at us like flies the moment we got of the bus. I think our students are getting good at saying NO, even better they are learning not make use eye-contact.
The Taj is simply an amazing sight. We were all pretty much in awe of this incredible man-made monumental piece of architecture. It really is a wonderful sight and as you can imagine camera's clicked like nothing on earth, as the students and adults included had their picture taken in front of it.
We visited the Red Fort after lunch which was also an incredible experience and with both visits we had the luxury of a guide. You have to listen hard to the Indian accent though. From the fort we went for dinner before heading off to the railway station.
Picture this! All back-packs off and all of us surrounding them.
That was us on the number One platform waiting for our train and true to form, it was running late. Running late was okay BUT...the RATS running over the railway lines and mice running around our pack-packs were not. Again poverty all around us. It's constant, it's the way it is here. I think we are getting used to.
The train arrived yeehaa. We were all given our bunk numbers and we squeezed our way down the aisles locating our bunks. Marty did tell us there could be the odd Indian in some of our beds and sure enough there were. Well at least in 2 of our beds (The ladies) anyway. I found it extremely difficult to have to ask a lady with her sleeping baby and old father to vacate our bunks. They did and for the rest of the journey I slept with one eye open always checking our back-packs which were chained under our beds.
This journey enabled most of our students to get a reasonable sleep. One of our boys has had first hand experience of vomitting and we have pretty much stablised this now. So far three students have had upset tummies and one has had a mild case of Dehli belly. At this stage we are managing to get on top of our illnesses.
Varansi is another whole new venture. I will get one of the students to give you their take on this part of our journey.
Friday, December 11, 2009
Outer suberbs of Delhi
Yesterday we ventured to the outer suberbs (and what a bus ride) to visit Sewa Ashram a rehabilitation centre for the destitute. Originally named 'Delhi House' for the homeless founded in 1997. Incidentally, Sewa Ashram, means 'Selfless giving'. On the way we passed many villages/townships that just seemed to go on forever. Fruit sellers and other craftsman all tauting for business. It's incredible how they survive. Whenever the bus stopped, there never seemed to be a shortage of beggars coming up to the bus window with extended hands. Honestly some of the sights we have seen are quite pitiful.
After our 2hr journey we finally arrived at the rehab centre and were greeted by a kiwi (Jenni Somerville, the administration officer for the centre) who is one of the volunteers working there. We were greeted with a very warm welcome and given some background on the centre before being given a tour and lunch. We lined up with our metal bowls and were dished up rice and dahl. The same lunch given to the patients. Some of students were not brave enough to try it and only had rice.
The patients were very happy to see us and one wee boy in particular took everyones attention. He was so cute. Many patients suffer TB and HIV aids, leprosy, typhoid and even some with limbs removed. Sadly there were some younger adults who are paralsyed from various illnesses and they were just bed-ridden. We also visited the childrens' section and saw some very happy faces - happy to have visitors; happy to have someone pay special attention to them. Some of these children were able to count to 130 in English, which I think is incredible since I can't count in Indian to 5. Some of our girls played with them; pushing them on the swing and playing on the seesaw. The kids enjoyed it. The boys wanted a game of cricket and our boys were tremendous sportsman. The accompanied them out onto this baron dusty playing area at the back of the complex and played cricket much to the enjoyment of the patients.
There was another kiwi couple doing voluntary work also; Ruth (nurse) and Jacob (physio)Ruth told us some fairly horrific stories about some of the patients and their plights, which I have to say were pretty graphic.
Poverty it seems has become an identity for many of these people and the philosophy of the rehab. centre is restoration of humanity. The aim of the centre is to make some contribution in helping to break the vicious cycle of poverty. They continue to seek ways to do this. The rehabilitation process with the intention of transformation is one of the initiatives of the centre. The idea of educating their patients and extending that to the community is also another intention.
Sadly when it was time to go, both patients and certainly some of our students were sorry to leave. This insightful experience certainly posed a challenge to their thinking and I'm sure left them with a strong compassionate imprint.
The journey back seemed quicker, on the way we saw monkeys on the side of the road along of course with the usual oxen driven carts, rickshaws, tuktuks and men and women hand-pulling carts. A mind-boggling experience as one of our students described. Our evening reflections revealed many thoughts, including their caring, compassion and understanding of the needs of basic human rights.
Friday: Today we had the morning off. Marty gave us all money to go off and have breakfast. Everyone went in different directions, in both small and large groups to have breaky and then the day was theirs until meeting time at 1pm. What was fantastic was the trust we were able to place in our students to go out own their own to do this. They showed tremendous responsibility in keeping safe and going out on their own. I'm not sure if I can say the same about their spending responsibilities. We have some fairly fun looking hena tatoos (don't worry mums, they do come off in time) and coloured scarves, belts, lighters and jewellery. They have had a ball.
We all met at 1 pm and took tuktuks to st Columbus school. The tuktuk experience was another story on its own. The whole weaving in and out and around traffic was such a hoot. I seriously don't know how anyone doesn't get killed in all that congestion. It's crazy there is absolutely no road rage as I have already mentioned.
Have to go Lights are getting put out in the internet cafe.
After our 2hr journey we finally arrived at the rehab centre and were greeted by a kiwi (Jenni Somerville, the administration officer for the centre) who is one of the volunteers working there. We were greeted with a very warm welcome and given some background on the centre before being given a tour and lunch. We lined up with our metal bowls and were dished up rice and dahl. The same lunch given to the patients. Some of students were not brave enough to try it and only had rice.
The patients were very happy to see us and one wee boy in particular took everyones attention. He was so cute. Many patients suffer TB and HIV aids, leprosy, typhoid and even some with limbs removed. Sadly there were some younger adults who are paralsyed from various illnesses and they were just bed-ridden. We also visited the childrens' section and saw some very happy faces - happy to have visitors; happy to have someone pay special attention to them. Some of these children were able to count to 130 in English, which I think is incredible since I can't count in Indian to 5. Some of our girls played with them; pushing them on the swing and playing on the seesaw. The kids enjoyed it. The boys wanted a game of cricket and our boys were tremendous sportsman. The accompanied them out onto this baron dusty playing area at the back of the complex and played cricket much to the enjoyment of the patients.
There was another kiwi couple doing voluntary work also; Ruth (nurse) and Jacob (physio)Ruth told us some fairly horrific stories about some of the patients and their plights, which I have to say were pretty graphic.
Poverty it seems has become an identity for many of these people and the philosophy of the rehab. centre is restoration of humanity. The aim of the centre is to make some contribution in helping to break the vicious cycle of poverty. They continue to seek ways to do this. The rehabilitation process with the intention of transformation is one of the initiatives of the centre. The idea of educating their patients and extending that to the community is also another intention.
Sadly when it was time to go, both patients and certainly some of our students were sorry to leave. This insightful experience certainly posed a challenge to their thinking and I'm sure left them with a strong compassionate imprint.
The journey back seemed quicker, on the way we saw monkeys on the side of the road along of course with the usual oxen driven carts, rickshaws, tuktuks and men and women hand-pulling carts. A mind-boggling experience as one of our students described. Our evening reflections revealed many thoughts, including their caring, compassion and understanding of the needs of basic human rights.
Friday: Today we had the morning off. Marty gave us all money to go off and have breakfast. Everyone went in different directions, in both small and large groups to have breaky and then the day was theirs until meeting time at 1pm. What was fantastic was the trust we were able to place in our students to go out own their own to do this. They showed tremendous responsibility in keeping safe and going out on their own. I'm not sure if I can say the same about their spending responsibilities. We have some fairly fun looking hena tatoos (don't worry mums, they do come off in time) and coloured scarves, belts, lighters and jewellery. They have had a ball.
We all met at 1 pm and took tuktuks to st Columbus school. The tuktuk experience was another story on its own. The whole weaving in and out and around traffic was such a hoot. I seriously don't know how anyone doesn't get killed in all that congestion. It's crazy there is absolutely no road rage as I have already mentioned.
Have to go Lights are getting put out in the internet cafe.
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
The India experience
Well we are finally here experiencing the whole India affair. Delhi is a blast to the senses alright. The taxi ride from the airport to our hotel is something to remember. There appears to be little or no specific road rules. Cars, trucks and any other roadworthy vehicles emerge from out of nowhere and vie for there place on the road. It's the most amazing thing that there are no major crashes, well at least, not what we have seen!
Our hotel is right in the heart of a busy market area. After 15hours of flying we were pretty tired and all went to our allocated rooms which range over 4 floors. Our very modest accommodation is very interesting indeed. We have had to buy our water and toilet paper. It has been a real eye opener.
People are everywhere, there is a mass of conglomeration!!! People, taxi horns blarring, cars, buses and trucks in continuous motion.Cows, just roaming freely in the small narrow streets and dogs everywhere. They sleep on the side of the road, under tuktuks, you name it. It's unreal. Delhi, it seems, is a constant throb of all of this activity.
Today we went to the bazaar and wandered around then went to Connaught Place, where we looked at more stalls. This afternoon we did the taxi ride experience again and negotiated our way in and out of traffic; weaving our way to the New Zealand High commission, where we had afternoon tea put on for us. It was great. John Subritzky, the deputy high commissioner welcomed us and in return we gave him a copy of 'Canterbury Tales' and the 'Earth Whisperer' CD. For an extra treat, the boys did a haka.
So far, everyone is consuming the rich experiences and have had alot of fun either watching the bartering or actually being involved in bartering. They also love the idea of being that much richer, as they call it. Our NZ dollars equate to hundreds of rupees.
There is a what appears to be a blanket of smog. The air is thick and it is like a very poor visibility if you related it to diving. A few tissues have been used by most of us and I am having to consume lots of water to lubricate my dry throat.
Today some of the students saw beggars; children, blantantly in your face, like annoying sandflies that you just want to swat away, to some badly deformed people with their begging bowls. It wasn't a good sight!!!
Surprisingly, despite the congestion of cars and people and the smells and the thick air and everything else I have to say, I admire the way our team of students have got onboard and handled this incredibly new situation so well.
Reflecting on our day has revealed some pretty amazing stories.
Marty, has another fabulous day lined up for us tomorrow.
Our hotel is right in the heart of a busy market area. After 15hours of flying we were pretty tired and all went to our allocated rooms which range over 4 floors. Our very modest accommodation is very interesting indeed. We have had to buy our water and toilet paper. It has been a real eye opener.
People are everywhere, there is a mass of conglomeration!!! People, taxi horns blarring, cars, buses and trucks in continuous motion.Cows, just roaming freely in the small narrow streets and dogs everywhere. They sleep on the side of the road, under tuktuks, you name it. It's unreal. Delhi, it seems, is a constant throb of all of this activity.
Today we went to the bazaar and wandered around then went to Connaught Place, where we looked at more stalls. This afternoon we did the taxi ride experience again and negotiated our way in and out of traffic; weaving our way to the New Zealand High commission, where we had afternoon tea put on for us. It was great. John Subritzky, the deputy high commissioner welcomed us and in return we gave him a copy of 'Canterbury Tales' and the 'Earth Whisperer' CD. For an extra treat, the boys did a haka.
So far, everyone is consuming the rich experiences and have had alot of fun either watching the bartering or actually being involved in bartering. They also love the idea of being that much richer, as they call it. Our NZ dollars equate to hundreds of rupees.
There is a what appears to be a blanket of smog. The air is thick and it is like a very poor visibility if you related it to diving. A few tissues have been used by most of us and I am having to consume lots of water to lubricate my dry throat.
Today some of the students saw beggars; children, blantantly in your face, like annoying sandflies that you just want to swat away, to some badly deformed people with their begging bowls. It wasn't a good sight!!!
Surprisingly, despite the congestion of cars and people and the smells and the thick air and everything else I have to say, I admire the way our team of students have got onboard and handled this incredibly new situation so well.
Reflecting on our day has revealed some pretty amazing stories.
Marty, has another fabulous day lined up for us tomorrow.
Saturday, November 28, 2009
India - So close, yet so far
Namaste Everyone, I've been browsing Lonely Planet and the vastness and diversity of India is simply incredible. I'm really looking forward to spending time together with you all on what is going to be a trip to remember. As I mentioned in comments; don;t forget to bring something to entertain yourself on some of those long train journies. Cards, books, small board game, good music etc... Good luck with final packing. Can;t wait. Sooooooooo excited :-)
Saturday, November 7, 2009
Final fundraiser for India
Our hypnotist night will be held on Thursday 26th of November, 7pm, at the Hornby Workingmans Club. This should be a fun night filled, I'm sure with all sorts of laughable behaviours. Tickets are only $10 To obtain a ticket get in touch with any the students from the Ch Ch region who are travelling to India. In anticipation, thanks for supporting our last fundraiser. Hope to see lots of you there :-)
Friday, October 23, 2009
The time-frame between now and our departure is decreasing. Packing preparation gets you thinking about what lies ahead. I'm guessing there is that prepartory process of mental change too that needs to take effect. Making the transition to our new cultural change might be made a little easier if I start practising some basic language skills. Namaste :-)
Friday, October 16, 2009
India again
Had some of my innoculations today. So far feeling great. Also hit Kathmandu and their 50% sale. Good place for getting bits and bobs for our trip.
Friday, October 9, 2009
Welcome
Hi
I am preparing for my trip to India in December.
I am looking forward to the experience. I will be travelling with a colleague, some adult helpers and some students from my school.
I am preparing for my trip to India in December.
I am looking forward to the experience. I will be travelling with a colleague, some adult helpers and some students from my school.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
