During these four months in Delhi, I have focused my time and energy on building new communities. And the seeds of friendship I planted have bloomed!
When I walk through my neighborhood, I stop by to talk to so many people. Just today, I visited my vegetable seller, egg seller, elderly neighbor and landlord’s daughter-- all while finishing my grocery shopping! I still sometimes feel like an outsider, but more and more people are learning who I am and are excited to get to know me.
Although I knew I would make new Indian friends, I didn’t consider how many new American friends I would gain, as well. Over the past few months, we have seen each other through homesickness, housing disasters and hospital visits; we’ve shared Thanksgiving, Christmas and birthdays; we have lost ourselves and then helped each other find ourselves again. I am very grateful to have had all of these people in my life!
You also have been such an important part of this journey! Writing for you has made me reflect on my experience in new ways. I also hope that reading has helped you think more about this world and your place in it.
Four months down; eight to go. Maybe we will meet again- but until then, namaste (goodbye)!
