Hellos and goodbyes

Tis the season of change.. something I like..for the most part.

The Christmas celebration was fantastic. 900 kids plus more people. So many wonderful performances and just an atmosphere of joy and fun on the 25th. Putting up the decorations was a lot of fun too! Later, we went out to eat as it was one of my friend's last day here. Saying goodbye is always so hard. I felt lonely as both my housemates/friends left within 24 hrs of each other! The day after Christmas I went to the community center at the slum again. This time, there were only 20 to 30 people max. The kids did not have school so they were playing around. Next thing I knew, I was amongst them playing tag/thappo, teaching them ring around the rosie, etc. Mann those kids would not let me go...one would want to play with my hair while another pulls one hand to go swing in a circle while another wants to play in the sand. The kids are full of energy and those piggy back rides sure gave me a good weight lifting workout! I got a well rounded work out now that I look back at it! Their laughter and love just vanished every bit of loneliness I had felt earlier. I felt like a little kid again with them! Children-so much to learn from them.

Anyway, today was good too. It was busy like every other day, but the volunteer meeting this AM was cherry on top. What a perfect way to start the day! I love hearing everyone's thoughts and experiences. Circles full of smiles and inspiration!

Yesterday was nice! The really convineint thing about India is that there are fruit vendors almost everywhere throughout the day. I was fasting so I had not had lunch. Walking 5-6 km without lunch and proper breakfast  can be tasking, so I got myself some baby size pomegranate, bor (no clue what it is called in English), and lemonade. Oh so good-the taste of freshness! Yesterday was full was BP screenings and gynec counseling. It was wonderful. Just my type of thing-education and screenings! Prevention prevention prevention- best medicine.

What I love about this place is all the new people I get to meet. It seems like everyday we have new volunteers or visitors. All of them are such a pleasure to get to know. Everyone adds to the tapestry of service. So many ideas, skills, cultures, backgrounds, and kind giving hearts in one arena. That is Gandhi ashram. I feel truly blessed to be here. To think what else I could be doing with my nursing career at this point in time-this is the best answer. I don't get paid in money, but I get more than what money can every buy. Everyone loves what they do here. Whether I am teaching arts and crafts to little kids or talking to adolescent girls on their health or performing for Christmas celebration or meetings with women to yoga and meditation...it is all so appealing to me. I feel truly happy in what I am doing. Everyday feels like Holi. My days are very colorful. :)

Keep smiling and dream big-dreams do come true when you truly put your heart and soul into them. You need faith in yourself. The world may say go one direction, but you need to follow your heart. Only way to make the unlikely a reality.