Sunday, May 20, 2007
Pictures from Ambassador's Ball, BBQs, and life on the ship!http://sandiego.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2036727&l=9e1e5&id=24502700
Two days have passed since I have stepped off the Explorer and I have experienced almost every emotion possible. I am elated to see my family. I am terribly sad that I had to say good bye to my new friends, the only people who will be able to know how I feel. They are some of the most beautiful and amazing individuals and together we made a community aboard the ship which will never be matched. There is hope that we will meet again. Many of us have already talked about meeting up and others will be encountered by chance.
I am now at the San Diego airport waiting to fly to Minnesota. I am excited to see my family; there is no doubt about that. I am trying so hard to understand why though I feel like I am unable to move. I can’t tell if I want to smile or cry. Driving to the airport we passed the harbor. When I looked at the ship, I knew that it is no longer my physical home. Tears stung my eyes. Yet, I am grateful for all she gave me. She was my home, my refuge, and a part of me will always be aboard the Explorer. I can’t wait to sail with her again.
I don’t want to let go of the ship and the fact that my voyage has come to an end. However, I am looking forward to what lies before me. The future is unknown but I have faith that there will be more adventures, lessons, and challenges. Above all, I believe that this experience will never end. The past 100 days will last 100 years. I will cherish them and hold them ever so close to my heart. My thoughts will be consumed with everything that I have seen and done. I will learn from this for years to come. So with that I know that this is not the end. This is another beginning…
I am now at the San Diego airport waiting to fly to Minnesota. I am excited to see my family; there is no doubt about that. I am trying so hard to understand why though I feel like I am unable to move. I can’t tell if I want to smile or cry. Driving to the airport we passed the harbor. When I looked at the ship, I knew that it is no longer my physical home. Tears stung my eyes. Yet, I am grateful for all she gave me. She was my home, my refuge, and a part of me will always be aboard the Explorer. I can’t wait to sail with her again.
I don’t want to let go of the ship and the fact that my voyage has come to an end. However, I am looking forward to what lies before me. The future is unknown but I have faith that there will be more adventures, lessons, and challenges. Above all, I believe that this experience will never end. The past 100 days will last 100 years. I will cherish them and hold them ever so close to my heart. My thoughts will be consumed with everything that I have seen and done. I will learn from this for years to come. So with that I know that this is not the end. This is another beginning…
Sunday, May 13, 2007
The best is yet to come...
I remember posting my first entry on this blog as if it was yesterday. It really wasn’t that long ago but so much has happened since then. I have been to nine countries, four continents, and three oceans. I danced in the streets of Brazil during the biggest party in the world, Carnaval. I climbed the Great Wall of China and have been touched by so many kind and welcoming people in every country. So much has been given to me from this experience. I have learned about each country’s history and have seen what is occurring now. By being immersed into other cultures I have learned more about my own as well as who I am as a person and my purpose in life.
“The purpose of life is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience.” Eleanor Roosevelt
From the first time that I read this quote, I was inspired and motivated to truly understand what it means. I wanted to be able to read these words and say, yes, the purpose of life is to live it…to the fullest, every moment of every day.
In order to do this, I knew that something in me would have to change. I wanted to be different. I wanted to have a new perspective on life and the world. How this would happen, I had no idea. One of the reoccurring themes on this voyage is to see things with new lenses, not just seeing things how I want to perceive them. The goal is to not just see the people and the landscapes but to acquire new eyes in which to see them as they truly are.
I am no longer a tourist. I have transformed into a traveler. As a traveler I long to experience new things, meet new people, and learn from their cultures. Following this transformation my passion for life burns with more intensity than ever before.
I can’t sleep. I have been tossing and turning all night, my mind is even more restless. I just got done with finals today and am now considered a senior in college. That in itself is enough to cause disbelief. However, tomorrow is packing day. In one day we are supposed to pack up our lives here on the Explorer and go forward. Don’t get me wrong, I am very excited to see my family and friends. I especially can’t wait to meet Peanut, my new niece or nephew. Yet I am torn…I must say good-bye to all the people who have made this voyage so special. I cannot believe how quickly our friendships formed. I feel like some of us grew up together, that is how close we have become. We will all go our separate ways but I believe that by sharing this experience we will remain connected for a very long time. I will also miss the crew who added so much to each one of our lives. And I will miss seeing the beautiful and inspirational Archbishop Desmond Tutu. Here is a man who not only talks the talk, but walks the walk. I know because I was fortunate enough to live with him while sailing the world. I will miss his laughter echoing the halls or him dancing whenever and wherever he could. This community which has formed is extraordinary, each individual is an essential fabric woven into the life of the ship. I have never felt such unity and love in such a large group of people. We are blessed to have one another.
To be able to reflect and write down all the things that I have learned during the past 100 days would be difficult to do at this moment in time. There is a lot that I feel I will learn after this voyage concludes…when I have had the opportunity to process everything. This voyage focused on pathways to peace and one thing that I have learned is that conflict can and has been overcome by peace, not violence. “An eye for an eye” makes the whole world blind…that is why we listen to and follow great leaders like Gandhi and Archbishop Desmond Tutu. In place of cruelty they suggest care; instead of hatred they preach love. The love they refer to is not defined in the conventional way, but in the sense that you have only overwhelming good will for another. One of the great professors made a very interesting point. Hatred is a prison which detains us. Those who hate are the ones who end up suffering. I also learned that a lot of times in life it is really how one looks at the situation. One of our inter-port lecturers told a story about two people in the same situation. One was lucky, the other unlucky. One day these men go to the bank to deposit money. They both wait in the line for twenty minutes before reaching the teller. Just as they are about to make their transactions a robber comes in and starts shooting. Both men get shot in the arm. The unlucky man thinks, “Just my luck!” The lucky man thinks, “I am so lucky. I could have been shot in the head!” See? One situation, two different ways to look at it.
While I am not yet able to understand all that I have come face to face with, I do know that I want to make a difference as cliché as it sounds. Every single person on this voyage has been empowered to contribute something in someway. I do not know where I will begin or what I will do. I have yet to overcome these feelings of being overwhelmed by it all…but I do believe that I, along with my shipmates, can and will change the world. Some will go on to make huge changes in the world community; others will help in their own communities. Either way each one of us will be kinder, more aware and active in improving the lives of others. No can say that he or she has not been changed by this voyage. Even I do not know for sure the impact that it has had on my life. What I do know is that even though I consider this voyage as the time of my life, I know that the best is yet to come. My days of learning and exploring the world will not cease when I reach San Diego. I like to look at it as a beginning of another adventure. I will now get to experience my home, my school, and my country with new eyes. But I know I won’t be there too long…there is too much to see. There is too much to be done. So I have to ask myself…where to next?
“The purpose of life is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience.” Eleanor Roosevelt
From the first time that I read this quote, I was inspired and motivated to truly understand what it means. I wanted to be able to read these words and say, yes, the purpose of life is to live it…to the fullest, every moment of every day.
In order to do this, I knew that something in me would have to change. I wanted to be different. I wanted to have a new perspective on life and the world. How this would happen, I had no idea. One of the reoccurring themes on this voyage is to see things with new lenses, not just seeing things how I want to perceive them. The goal is to not just see the people and the landscapes but to acquire new eyes in which to see them as they truly are.
I am no longer a tourist. I have transformed into a traveler. As a traveler I long to experience new things, meet new people, and learn from their cultures. Following this transformation my passion for life burns with more intensity than ever before.
I can’t sleep. I have been tossing and turning all night, my mind is even more restless. I just got done with finals today and am now considered a senior in college. That in itself is enough to cause disbelief. However, tomorrow is packing day. In one day we are supposed to pack up our lives here on the Explorer and go forward. Don’t get me wrong, I am very excited to see my family and friends. I especially can’t wait to meet Peanut, my new niece or nephew. Yet I am torn…I must say good-bye to all the people who have made this voyage so special. I cannot believe how quickly our friendships formed. I feel like some of us grew up together, that is how close we have become. We will all go our separate ways but I believe that by sharing this experience we will remain connected for a very long time. I will also miss the crew who added so much to each one of our lives. And I will miss seeing the beautiful and inspirational Archbishop Desmond Tutu. Here is a man who not only talks the talk, but walks the walk. I know because I was fortunate enough to live with him while sailing the world. I will miss his laughter echoing the halls or him dancing whenever and wherever he could. This community which has formed is extraordinary, each individual is an essential fabric woven into the life of the ship. I have never felt such unity and love in such a large group of people. We are blessed to have one another.
To be able to reflect and write down all the things that I have learned during the past 100 days would be difficult to do at this moment in time. There is a lot that I feel I will learn after this voyage concludes…when I have had the opportunity to process everything. This voyage focused on pathways to peace and one thing that I have learned is that conflict can and has been overcome by peace, not violence. “An eye for an eye” makes the whole world blind…that is why we listen to and follow great leaders like Gandhi and Archbishop Desmond Tutu. In place of cruelty they suggest care; instead of hatred they preach love. The love they refer to is not defined in the conventional way, but in the sense that you have only overwhelming good will for another. One of the great professors made a very interesting point. Hatred is a prison which detains us. Those who hate are the ones who end up suffering. I also learned that a lot of times in life it is really how one looks at the situation. One of our inter-port lecturers told a story about two people in the same situation. One was lucky, the other unlucky. One day these men go to the bank to deposit money. They both wait in the line for twenty minutes before reaching the teller. Just as they are about to make their transactions a robber comes in and starts shooting. Both men get shot in the arm. The unlucky man thinks, “Just my luck!” The lucky man thinks, “I am so lucky. I could have been shot in the head!” See? One situation, two different ways to look at it.
While I am not yet able to understand all that I have come face to face with, I do know that I want to make a difference as cliché as it sounds. Every single person on this voyage has been empowered to contribute something in someway. I do not know where I will begin or what I will do. I have yet to overcome these feelings of being overwhelmed by it all…but I do believe that I, along with my shipmates, can and will change the world. Some will go on to make huge changes in the world community; others will help in their own communities. Either way each one of us will be kinder, more aware and active in improving the lives of others. No can say that he or she has not been changed by this voyage. Even I do not know for sure the impact that it has had on my life. What I do know is that even though I consider this voyage as the time of my life, I know that the best is yet to come. My days of learning and exploring the world will not cease when I reach San Diego. I like to look at it as a beginning of another adventure. I will now get to experience my home, my school, and my country with new eyes. But I know I won’t be there too long…there is too much to see. There is too much to be done. So I have to ask myself…where to next?
Love, Your Baby Girl
Dreams come true…
First of all, I need and truly want to express my gratitude for two very special and important people in my life, my parents. Without you two I would not have been able to have this experience. You supported me from the first day that I learned about Semester at Sea and still continue to be my biggest fan. Even though there was no way to truly prepare for what I did, you nurtured me with your love and wisdom. Without that I know I would have been far less ready to see the things that I saw and do the things that I did. Even though we were separated with distance and time, I feel that now more than ever that I am closer to you. My love and appreciation for you is deeper, stronger. I do not know what else to say…there are no words to articulate what is in my heart. So I will wait to see you in San Diego and I will give you a long awaited hug.
I love you more than anything in the world.
Love,
Your Baby Girl
First of all, I need and truly want to express my gratitude for two very special and important people in my life, my parents. Without you two I would not have been able to have this experience. You supported me from the first day that I learned about Semester at Sea and still continue to be my biggest fan. Even though there was no way to truly prepare for what I did, you nurtured me with your love and wisdom. Without that I know I would have been far less ready to see the things that I saw and do the things that I did. Even though we were separated with distance and time, I feel that now more than ever that I am closer to you. My love and appreciation for you is deeper, stronger. I do not know what else to say…there are no words to articulate what is in my heart. So I will wait to see you in San Diego and I will give you a long awaited hug.
I love you more than anything in the world.
Love,
Your Baby Girl
Pictures!
I promise to have pictures from the last few ports and all the activities posted when I get home so check back soon!
Tuesday, May 8, 2007
Aloha Hawaii!
The ship pulled in at 6 am and we were able to get off around 8. The sun was shining and it was a gorgeous day. Charlene, Jody, Korrin, Kate and I caught a cab by the Aloha Tower and headed off to Pearl Harbor.
Considering the fact that I just came from the Hiroshima Peace Park, I was able to look at the Memorial at Pearl Harbor with a different perspective. To see the devastation that both countries inflicted on one another made me question why so many people had to die, and for what? At the bottom of it all it just doesn’t make sense. It is so hard for me to understand why people think that violence is the only solution to resolve conflict. I have been around the world and seen instances of this so often. The worst part of it all though is the wake of despair and pain that violence leaves behind.
Just like seeing what was left of the Dome in Hiroshima, I was deeply moved when peering down into the water at the USS Arizona. I got a little angry too. While we were at the Memorial I overheard two Americans talking about how happy they were that they were able to get revenge on the Japanese. I didn’t know what to do or say. I saw this “revenge” at Hiroshima and after seeing what happened there I don’t know how anyone could feel like they got even or revenge was accomplished. What was accomplished was disaster, and both countries were at fault.
The transition from the Memorial into the rest of our day wasn’t too easy. It was a good thing that we took the bus because it gave us about an hour to reflect on this and so many things that have occurred in the last three months. Once we arrived at Waikiki Beach we were starving. It was around two in the afternoon and we ate at a little Mexican/Hawaiian restaurant. We had Kalua pork and salad, all very delicious. Then it was off to enjoy the rest of the afternoon on the beach. We met up with many other SASers who were also basking in the sun, surfing, and playing football. It was a great time to chat with everyone and enjoy our last port together. Around six in the evening we watched the sun go down and packed up. Jenna, Charlene, Korrin, Jody, Kate and I walked together to get some food and coffee. Charlene ended up deciding that she wanted to get her nosed pierced and within ten minutes she got it done! We then took a cab back to Aloha Tower. Kate, Charlene, and I went to a little restaurant/bar right outside the ship and enjoyed a glass of wine. It was the perfect way to board the Explorer for the last time on this voyage!
Considering the fact that I just came from the Hiroshima Peace Park, I was able to look at the Memorial at Pearl Harbor with a different perspective. To see the devastation that both countries inflicted on one another made me question why so many people had to die, and for what? At the bottom of it all it just doesn’t make sense. It is so hard for me to understand why people think that violence is the only solution to resolve conflict. I have been around the world and seen instances of this so often. The worst part of it all though is the wake of despair and pain that violence leaves behind.
Just like seeing what was left of the Dome in Hiroshima, I was deeply moved when peering down into the water at the USS Arizona. I got a little angry too. While we were at the Memorial I overheard two Americans talking about how happy they were that they were able to get revenge on the Japanese. I didn’t know what to do or say. I saw this “revenge” at Hiroshima and after seeing what happened there I don’t know how anyone could feel like they got even or revenge was accomplished. What was accomplished was disaster, and both countries were at fault.
The transition from the Memorial into the rest of our day wasn’t too easy. It was a good thing that we took the bus because it gave us about an hour to reflect on this and so many things that have occurred in the last three months. Once we arrived at Waikiki Beach we were starving. It was around two in the afternoon and we ate at a little Mexican/Hawaiian restaurant. We had Kalua pork and salad, all very delicious. Then it was off to enjoy the rest of the afternoon on the beach. We met up with many other SASers who were also basking in the sun, surfing, and playing football. It was a great time to chat with everyone and enjoy our last port together. Around six in the evening we watched the sun go down and packed up. Jenna, Charlene, Korrin, Jody, Kate and I walked together to get some food and coffee. Charlene ended up deciding that she wanted to get her nosed pierced and within ten minutes she got it done! We then took a cab back to Aloha Tower. Kate, Charlene, and I went to a little restaurant/bar right outside the ship and enjoyed a glass of wine. It was the perfect way to board the Explorer for the last time on this voyage!
Wednesday, May 2, 2007
Japan
Our last port! I can not believe how fast this trip has gone! The last half of the voyage went by quicker than the first half because we only had a few days on the ship before we reached another port. Sailing to Kobe took only two days; we arrived on Wednesday, April 25, 2007 at 0800. Disembarkation took longer than usual. There were many activities going on. We took a group photo on the back of the ship. Kate and I stood and waved from 7th deck. After that we had a briefing with two US diplomats, lunch, and the ship was cleared for us to get off. Lindsay, Meg, Allie, Kate and I took to the streets of Kobe to explore. We originally wanted to go to Hiroshima but we decided to save that trip for later day. The weather was a little gloomy but we were all so excited to be here. We went to the train station to figure out the system and buy tickets for our other trips. While in the station we noticed an aroma that was heavenly. Little waffles were sold at a vendor so we decided to treat ourselves. There were delicious! That night we (Lindsay, Meg, Allie, and I) went to a baseball game in Osaka. The Hansin Tigers played the Swallows. Halfway through the fifth inning it began to sprinkle. Within five minutes it was pouring. The crowd was ecstatic and the teams kept playing regardless of the rain. The team spirit was very apparent which made it impossible to not join in. We tried some “game food” which was interesting to say the least. There was squid on a stick and teriyaki chicken. We ended up getting a few beers and sampled some food. We left before the game completed and caught the train back to Kobe. It was such a fun and unexpected experience!
Thursday was a fantastic day. Kate and I went with SAS to Nara and Kyoto. These two areas are referred to have the “most significant sites associated with the developments of Japan’s political, artistic, and religious identity.” It took two hours to get to Nara which was the first capital in the 8th century. The capital then moved to Kyoto for 1,000 years and is now in Tokyo. We arrived to the oldest temple in Japan, Horyu-ji. It was built in 607 CE and contains some of Japan’s rarest treasures. Following that we went to lunch at Hotel Fujita Nara. This meal was so good! We had sushi, rice, chicken, and a light desert. Green tea was served as well, all the good things that I was hoping to be able to have while in Japan. After lunch we visited the deer park. Thousands of deer where all over the grounds and the deer were a lot smaller than the ones I am used to seeing. They were very aggressive at times. We bought little biscuits to feed them but ended up having to run from them. One even bit me from behind! I got some great pictures! The deer park was next to the Todaiji Temple which houses a huge bronze statue of the Great Buddha. It was enormous when we stood by it. There was a service going on as well so we caught a little bit of that and had time to explore the area. The Kasuga shrine was interesting however I don’t know too much about it. We checked into our ryokan, a tradition Japanese inn. It was just as I hoped it would be like. We put on yukata robes which are similar to kimonos and had a tea service in our open and tranquil rooms. Dinner was served at the hotel and this meal was by far the best. We all sat on the floor and had someone cooking for us. We ate almost every kind of vegetable and had thinly sliced meat. I also enjoyed another cup of tea. It was perfect. After a few hours of lounging a group of us decided to go into Kyoto for a while. We ended up taking the subway to an area closer to downtown. We walked along the streets and took in all the sights. On almost every corner there were vending machines with beer and other alcohol in them…very different than home! We went into a few pubs and then went to a place called Sam and Dave’s. It was pretty slow but we had the opportunity to chat with the bartenders who are from Canada originally. They gave us great insight about living and working here. They even showed us an Internet café that was close by. This place was intense! There were massaging chairs at almost every computer station. They served free drinks and even offered tanning! I have never seen anything like this! After an hour we headed back to catch the last train at midnight. When we got back to the ryokan we slipped into our futons for a wonderful and peaceful night of sleep.
All day Friday was spent in Kyoto. Our first stop was at the Kinkakuji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion. This sight was breathtaking. Situated on a clear and calm pond stood the majestic structure stood three stories high and was completely covered in gold foil. The day was a vibrant blue which offset the pavilion and the pond brilliantly. I can’t wait to develop my pictures from this place; I hope they will be able to translate its beauty. The second stop was at Nijo Castle. Most of the cherry blossoms that Japan is famous for had already bloomed but there was an entire area with the pink and white flowers. The castle tour informed us about those that used this place. It was very important for rulers to meet as well as the Shoguns. A tempura lunch followed the castle visit. Again this meal was tasty. I have concluded that Japanese food has been my favorite on this trip. The last stop was at Kiyomizu Temple which is famous for its wooden veranda suspended over a deep gorge. The trees were so lush and green. The entire area was engulfed by this natural beauty. Then it was back to the bus to head back to the ship. Kate and I got a little courageous so we decided to stay in Kyoto for another night. We were expecting to be completely helpless with the language barrier…however we booked a hotel and got train tickets to Hiroshima in less than 20 minutes. It was too easy! The people here are so quick to help though which made it better. We checked into our hotel which was much nicer than anticipated because it was so inexpensive! We got dinner and had some wine. After a little cat nap and cleaning up we were back on the streets to have a good time. We ended up running into two other guys from SAS. We went back to Sam and Dave’s but it was too early again. The Japanese don’t start partying until 12 or 1 in the morning. It was only 10:30 so we went to a little pub where we had a few drinks. From there something caught our eye that we couldn’t pass up… Karaoke! This is extremely famous in this country. The wait to get into a room was twenty minutes but once we got in it was a blast. Now, I have a terrible voice but there is something about Japanese karaoke that got me going!
Saturday Kate and I boarded the bullet train to Hiroshima. We slept most of the way since it was a 2 hour ride. When we arrived we took a cable car to the Peace Memorial Park and Museum. The museum is dedicated to the explosion of the atomic bomb on August 6, 1945. Approximately two hundred thousand people perished in this tragedy and left many injured for life. While inside the museum we read about the history and events leading up to the bomb. Pictures were very graphic but there was no way I could look away. Similar to the museum in Vietnam I wanted to know the other side of the story. At that moment I felt sick to know that my country was responsible for all this destruction. I saw charred clothing and other artifacts that depicted the intense heat from the explosion. Temperatures were said to have reached 7,000 degrees Celsius, melting statues, buildings, and imprinting human shadows on granite steps. The pictures of the skin that literally melted off people’s body were so gruesome, images that I will never be able to forget. One exhibit told the story of the 1,000 paper cranes. A little girl was exposed to the radiation leftover from the bomb and at the age of 10 (eight years later) she was diagnosed with Leukemia. Her hope was to build 1,000 paper cranes because she heard a story that by doing this she would be cured. Sadly, she died before she could finish all 1,000. Her friends from school and her family completed her dream and she was buried with all her cranes. It is such a moving story, one that humanizes the decision such as dropping the bomb. People who are capable of doing these kinds of harms should learn that their decisions affect beautiful and innocent people. Again I just couldn’t fathom why someone would want to engage in such evil. When we left the museum we walked around the gardens of the park. On the Memorial Cenotaph there is an inscription that reads, “Rest in peace for the error shall not be repeated.” This hope is what inspires people from all over the world to come to Hiroshima to witness what the first atomic bomb accomplished. Hopefully those who see it will be able to make these words into action. There is too much hatred and evil in this world, I do not have to tell anyone that. But what I feel in my heart is that we could all come together and be kinder, more humane. I know these seem like naïve and lofty dreams but after seeing all the devastation in Vietnam and now in Hiroshima they have been planted within my heart and soul. I have almost gone around the world and I have seen much. But I can’t help but think of what I didn’t see or what is hidden from me. My mind always goes to the current war in Iraq. People are dying every day. People on both sides are suffering, and for what? Maybe those responsible for making the big decisions should actually look into the eyes of a child then decided if they want to detonate…
The rest of the day consisted of reflection about this place, as well as our journey thus far. Kate and I traveled back to Kobe that evening. We had a good chat, a life chat. We are so grateful for our lives and those in it. However, we decided that we now have the ability as well as the responsibility to do something, to make positive change so that everyone can have a higher quality of life.
Our last night in Japan was a good one…we had dinner and went out around 10 pm. Kate, Ashley, and I went with another group to the downtown area. We hopped from bar to pub. Everyone was enjoying themselves, however the point that this was our last night in a foreign port lingered over us. We all noted how grateful we are but this trip has been the time of our lives and with that we called it a night.
Sunday was bittersweet. I had a fabulous time with Ashley, Kate, and Ben. We wanted to go to Osaka for a Cherry Blossom Festival at the castle but found out it was cancelled. So we didn’t know what to do while in Osaka. We were about to walk out of the train station when we saw a poster for Universal Studies…we found our solution. It was really a quick and random thing to decide but we were all up for it! The lines were packed and wait times were hours. We did get to go on the Back to the Future ride which was worth the wait. The rest of the afternoon we ventured through the park and took a ton of pictures. Our favorite part of the day was taking pictures with Woody Woodpecker, Shrek and Princess Fiona, Hello Kitty, and a penguin from March of the Penguins! It definitely brought be back! Around 3 we went to eat at Hard Rock café. This is the first American food for most of us, other than McDonald’s. Then we took the train back to Kobe. Kate, Ashley, and I got coffee and had another life chat to conclude our day as well as our time in Japan. The Explorer set said precisely at 11 pm and headed for home…
Thursday was a fantastic day. Kate and I went with SAS to Nara and Kyoto. These two areas are referred to have the “most significant sites associated with the developments of Japan’s political, artistic, and religious identity.” It took two hours to get to Nara which was the first capital in the 8th century. The capital then moved to Kyoto for 1,000 years and is now in Tokyo. We arrived to the oldest temple in Japan, Horyu-ji. It was built in 607 CE and contains some of Japan’s rarest treasures. Following that we went to lunch at Hotel Fujita Nara. This meal was so good! We had sushi, rice, chicken, and a light desert. Green tea was served as well, all the good things that I was hoping to be able to have while in Japan. After lunch we visited the deer park. Thousands of deer where all over the grounds and the deer were a lot smaller than the ones I am used to seeing. They were very aggressive at times. We bought little biscuits to feed them but ended up having to run from them. One even bit me from behind! I got some great pictures! The deer park was next to the Todaiji Temple which houses a huge bronze statue of the Great Buddha. It was enormous when we stood by it. There was a service going on as well so we caught a little bit of that and had time to explore the area. The Kasuga shrine was interesting however I don’t know too much about it. We checked into our ryokan, a tradition Japanese inn. It was just as I hoped it would be like. We put on yukata robes which are similar to kimonos and had a tea service in our open and tranquil rooms. Dinner was served at the hotel and this meal was by far the best. We all sat on the floor and had someone cooking for us. We ate almost every kind of vegetable and had thinly sliced meat. I also enjoyed another cup of tea. It was perfect. After a few hours of lounging a group of us decided to go into Kyoto for a while. We ended up taking the subway to an area closer to downtown. We walked along the streets and took in all the sights. On almost every corner there were vending machines with beer and other alcohol in them…very different than home! We went into a few pubs and then went to a place called Sam and Dave’s. It was pretty slow but we had the opportunity to chat with the bartenders who are from Canada originally. They gave us great insight about living and working here. They even showed us an Internet café that was close by. This place was intense! There were massaging chairs at almost every computer station. They served free drinks and even offered tanning! I have never seen anything like this! After an hour we headed back to catch the last train at midnight. When we got back to the ryokan we slipped into our futons for a wonderful and peaceful night of sleep.
All day Friday was spent in Kyoto. Our first stop was at the Kinkakuji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion. This sight was breathtaking. Situated on a clear and calm pond stood the majestic structure stood three stories high and was completely covered in gold foil. The day was a vibrant blue which offset the pavilion and the pond brilliantly. I can’t wait to develop my pictures from this place; I hope they will be able to translate its beauty. The second stop was at Nijo Castle. Most of the cherry blossoms that Japan is famous for had already bloomed but there was an entire area with the pink and white flowers. The castle tour informed us about those that used this place. It was very important for rulers to meet as well as the Shoguns. A tempura lunch followed the castle visit. Again this meal was tasty. I have concluded that Japanese food has been my favorite on this trip. The last stop was at Kiyomizu Temple which is famous for its wooden veranda suspended over a deep gorge. The trees were so lush and green. The entire area was engulfed by this natural beauty. Then it was back to the bus to head back to the ship. Kate and I got a little courageous so we decided to stay in Kyoto for another night. We were expecting to be completely helpless with the language barrier…however we booked a hotel and got train tickets to Hiroshima in less than 20 minutes. It was too easy! The people here are so quick to help though which made it better. We checked into our hotel which was much nicer than anticipated because it was so inexpensive! We got dinner and had some wine. After a little cat nap and cleaning up we were back on the streets to have a good time. We ended up running into two other guys from SAS. We went back to Sam and Dave’s but it was too early again. The Japanese don’t start partying until 12 or 1 in the morning. It was only 10:30 so we went to a little pub where we had a few drinks. From there something caught our eye that we couldn’t pass up… Karaoke! This is extremely famous in this country. The wait to get into a room was twenty minutes but once we got in it was a blast. Now, I have a terrible voice but there is something about Japanese karaoke that got me going!
Saturday Kate and I boarded the bullet train to Hiroshima. We slept most of the way since it was a 2 hour ride. When we arrived we took a cable car to the Peace Memorial Park and Museum. The museum is dedicated to the explosion of the atomic bomb on August 6, 1945. Approximately two hundred thousand people perished in this tragedy and left many injured for life. While inside the museum we read about the history and events leading up to the bomb. Pictures were very graphic but there was no way I could look away. Similar to the museum in Vietnam I wanted to know the other side of the story. At that moment I felt sick to know that my country was responsible for all this destruction. I saw charred clothing and other artifacts that depicted the intense heat from the explosion. Temperatures were said to have reached 7,000 degrees Celsius, melting statues, buildings, and imprinting human shadows on granite steps. The pictures of the skin that literally melted off people’s body were so gruesome, images that I will never be able to forget. One exhibit told the story of the 1,000 paper cranes. A little girl was exposed to the radiation leftover from the bomb and at the age of 10 (eight years later) she was diagnosed with Leukemia. Her hope was to build 1,000 paper cranes because she heard a story that by doing this she would be cured. Sadly, she died before she could finish all 1,000. Her friends from school and her family completed her dream and she was buried with all her cranes. It is such a moving story, one that humanizes the decision such as dropping the bomb. People who are capable of doing these kinds of harms should learn that their decisions affect beautiful and innocent people. Again I just couldn’t fathom why someone would want to engage in such evil. When we left the museum we walked around the gardens of the park. On the Memorial Cenotaph there is an inscription that reads, “Rest in peace for the error shall not be repeated.” This hope is what inspires people from all over the world to come to Hiroshima to witness what the first atomic bomb accomplished. Hopefully those who see it will be able to make these words into action. There is too much hatred and evil in this world, I do not have to tell anyone that. But what I feel in my heart is that we could all come together and be kinder, more humane. I know these seem like naïve and lofty dreams but after seeing all the devastation in Vietnam and now in Hiroshima they have been planted within my heart and soul. I have almost gone around the world and I have seen much. But I can’t help but think of what I didn’t see or what is hidden from me. My mind always goes to the current war in Iraq. People are dying every day. People on both sides are suffering, and for what? Maybe those responsible for making the big decisions should actually look into the eyes of a child then decided if they want to detonate…
The rest of the day consisted of reflection about this place, as well as our journey thus far. Kate and I traveled back to Kobe that evening. We had a good chat, a life chat. We are so grateful for our lives and those in it. However, we decided that we now have the ability as well as the responsibility to do something, to make positive change so that everyone can have a higher quality of life.
Our last night in Japan was a good one…we had dinner and went out around 10 pm. Kate, Ashley, and I went with another group to the downtown area. We hopped from bar to pub. Everyone was enjoying themselves, however the point that this was our last night in a foreign port lingered over us. We all noted how grateful we are but this trip has been the time of our lives and with that we called it a night.
Sunday was bittersweet. I had a fabulous time with Ashley, Kate, and Ben. We wanted to go to Osaka for a Cherry Blossom Festival at the castle but found out it was cancelled. So we didn’t know what to do while in Osaka. We were about to walk out of the train station when we saw a poster for Universal Studies…we found our solution. It was really a quick and random thing to decide but we were all up for it! The lines were packed and wait times were hours. We did get to go on the Back to the Future ride which was worth the wait. The rest of the afternoon we ventured through the park and took a ton of pictures. Our favorite part of the day was taking pictures with Woody Woodpecker, Shrek and Princess Fiona, Hello Kitty, and a penguin from March of the Penguins! It definitely brought be back! Around 3 we went to eat at Hard Rock café. This is the first American food for most of us, other than McDonald’s. Then we took the train back to Kobe. Kate, Ashley, and I got coffee and had another life chat to conclude our day as well as our time in Japan. The Explorer set said precisely at 11 pm and headed for home…
China
Our flight from Hong Kong left in the early afternoon on Wednesday, April 18th, but with a group of over 70 SASers we had to leave for the airport around 9am. The drive on the bus was great; it gave us a glimpse of more of Hong Kong. I really want to come back to further explore this place, as I do in other places I have been. While waiting to board we watched CNN to get more information about VT. It was still raw, which I am sure will be the situation for some time. The flight was uneventful, which was good. We landed in Beijing and quickly got onto a bus for the hour ride to Peking University to meet with students and have dinner. The bus ride was fun to take in the sights. The city is extremely excited for the upcoming Olympics as it should be. We were able to see the building where the opening ceremonies will be held and there were official clocks around the city counting down the days until August 2008. Around 6 pm we went to a restaurant for some interesting Chinese cuisine. Some of the dishes were good, however let me just say that the Chinese food served at home is very different than the authentic food. After dinner we went to Peking University to meet our host students. The evening was cool, a refreshing break from the intense heat we have experienced in all the countries prior. The students were so excited to meet us and show us their campus. This university is among the top institutions in China and is comparable to Harvard and MIT. Needless to say, these students told us that all of their free time was spent studying and most were in the medical or engineering fields. The campus was beautiful, even at night. We walked around a small lake and took in the traditional style buildings that decorated the nicely manicured landscape. After about an hour tour we said goodbye until tomorrow and went to check into our hotel. The Beijing Post and Telegraph Center would be our home for the next three nights…and it was an adventure in itself. I guess the best way to illustrate this place is to say that the hostel that I stayed at in South Africa was a five star accommodation compared to this place. But we made the best of it as the experience is always more important.
On Thursday we had breakfast at the hotel, more rice and eggs. I was so excited to see that there was milk. I couldn’t wait to have a big gulp…but as I grabbed a glass I almost burned my hand, the milk was hot! I will be a good sport and try new things but this is one thing that I couldn’t bring myself to do! After breakfast we gathered back on the bus and headed to visit a cloisonné factory, a type of artwork that is native to China. It was pretty interesting; we were able to see people making different objects such as vases, jewelry, and sculptures. Following that we visited the Ming Tombs where 14 of the 16 Ming Dynasty emperors and empresses are buried. The grounds above the tombs covered a large area which was filled with trees and other plants. Descending down about 10 flights of stairs was quite a task but once we got to where the tombs were it was incredible. China has such a long history and to be able to be in the same vicinity as the majority of China’s past rulers was mind-boggling. When we left the Ming Tombs we went to lunch at Dayi Restaurant. The food was better here, a little more familiarity with sweet and sour pork and spring rolls. We had to fill up though because after lunch we went to climb the Great Wall. This was by far the high point of my time in China. Our day was not very clear but as our bus approached the Great Wall I could instantly see and feel its splendor. We arrived at one area where were to begin our hike. Our guide informed us that it would take two hours to climb up and back down so we scrambled off the bus and hit the stairs. The pictures do not do it justice, but is surprisingly steeper than we anticipated. We were all a little winded about half way up but it added to the experience. It was overwhelming to realize that I was ascending up the Great Wall of China. The Great Wall! I was finally here after all this time. I had a huge smile on my face the entire time as did all the SASers. We stopped at various points for pictures however I know a few pictures stops were opportunities to catch a quick breath. The stairs were very small, definitely made for people with smaller feet. They were also very far apart making the incline that much more challenging. Once we reached the very top of this section we gathered to take it all in. It was really special because after a few moments of looking around we all got silent. The awe of being on the Great Wall finally sank in. Various emotions overcame me at that moment. I thought about where I was and what I have seen and done up to this point. I felt truly humbled and grateful. I even called the family and woke them up at 3 am to let them know that I was on top of the Great Wall! Reluctantly, we began our climb done. Again we were all a little more quiet, either to take time to meditate or because of exhaustion. At the bottom, I saw a camel. Yes, I said a camel. I know, it was strange for me too. However, it was there and I couldn’t pass up an opportunity to ride a camel while at the base of the Great Wall. I mean, how many people can be able to do that! So I paid 20 Yuen ($3) to ride Yeni the camel for about 5 minutes but it was well worth it. I climbed on top and sat between her two humps. The last time I was on a camel was when I was four and I forgot how comfortable they ride, like a regular ‘ol Cadillac! After I said my goodbye to Yeni and the Great Wall we headed back to the University for dinner and a party with the students. Dinner was filling as all the meals have been. The party afterwards was fun; we had a little game of limbo and other contests. It became obvious to the SASers that these students don’t get out much or they really like limbo!
On Friday we had breakfast again at the hotel. Our first stop was at the Temple of Heaven which is situated in the largest park in all of Beijing. We had time to explore the main temple and other buildings of the complex. It was another grand sight with some of the most beautiful Chinese architecture I have seen. We strolled through an area where people played games and practiced Tai Chi. There was a large group of people congregated around pieces of paper so we thought we would check it out. We couldn’t figure out what they were doing. Thankfully a British man explained to us that this was a location for Chinese people to meet a prospective husband or wife. The papers were actually ads describing their families and what they wanted in a partner. I guess this was China’s version of Match.com! We met up with the rest of the group but decided to skip lunch. We found out that the Temple of Heaven was near the infamous Pearl Market where strands of fresh and salt water pearls are incredibly inexpensive. About five of us girls walked to the market and spent over an hour browsing and purchasing pearls. The factory was huge, literally floor after floor of pearl vendors. We met back up with the group at Tiananmen Square. This was one of the most interesting sights to learn about in Global Studies. We watched a documentary about the Tank Man in the spring of 1989. Everyone should know about this significant historical event. We went into the Forbidden City but took pictures including a group one in front of Chairman Mao’s memorial hall. This palace is the largest and most complete of China’s existing palaces and the former residence of 24 emperors. A few of us left the group at that time to take a taxi back to the hotel. It was an hour ride with traffic. The number of cars in Beijing is countless. We were able to rest before dinner. We didn’t make it on time to meet with the group because of traffic…so we stopped at McDonald’s. It was actually a nice break. We did make it to the acrobatic show which was phenomenal! The stunts that the performers did seemed impossible but they made them look too easy. They did flips through rings of fire and 15 people artistically rode a single bike. Everyone should see these pictures…incredible! That night we hit the town. We went to an area of bars and restaurants that surrounded a gorgeous lake. There weren’t that many people out but we had an exciting night nonetheless. We first shared a stick of sugared strawberries. They were delicious, however dangerous. Katie, not me, cut her finger from the crystallized sugar. And from then on it got even more interesting. We went into a bar called Sex and Da City, catchy name. They led us to an area where a table was but it was more like a bed with pillows and a little table. It was fun until we got yelled at by a pole dancer. This is such a crazy story but we were upstairs taking pictures of the bed/table because it was so funny. Well the pole dancer thought we took a picture of her and she got a little upset…we actually have no idea what she said since she spoke Chinese but we could tell it wasn’t good! Then we ordered wine but it turned out to be more water than wine. With that we figured we hit three strikes so we called it a night. All in all we had a great time; it was fun to recap the next morning on all the craziness!
Saturday, our last day in Beijing, began with breakfast at the hotel again. We weren’t too sad to leave the hotel though. We spent the morning touring the Summer Palace which is a large area that was built for the emperor and empress for rest and relaxation. It reminded me a lot of home with buildings encircling a large and beautiful lake. The trees were so green and flowers were blooming. The sense of spring was everywhere. Our last stop at the Palace was at the large Marble Boat. We took a boat, a wooden one, across the lake to get back to our bus. It was very relaxing and made me think of home even though Chinese influence surrounded me. Back on the bus we departed for the airport for our flight to Qingdao. Most of us took advantage of the hour and a half to rest from the past few days of nonstop activity. However, I wouldn’t have it any other way. We only have so much time in each port and taking advantage of every moment and every opportunity is vital. We landed in Qingdao and got onto another bus to get to the ship. Another group of SASers was on our flight so our bus driver and theirs raced to get to the dock. We won, but after almost going off the road ourselves. I know we cut off a few cars, notably a van of government officials! That night we walked around downtown but had to cut the night short. ATM cards as well as VISA were not accepted anywhere and many of us didn’t have any Yuen left.
Sunday was our last day in China. Many of us stayed on the ship. The weather wasn’t very good and like the night before many didn’t have Yuen left. It was perfect though, I finally got to sleep in and catch up on some rest. The Explorer set sail for Kobe at exactly 11 pm. I couldn’t believe we only had one last country before we are home in the States. I remember the Bahamas like it was last week. I had to stop thinking about the fact that this experience was coming to a close because we still have Japan…and I felt like we were going to go out with a bang…
On Thursday we had breakfast at the hotel, more rice and eggs. I was so excited to see that there was milk. I couldn’t wait to have a big gulp…but as I grabbed a glass I almost burned my hand, the milk was hot! I will be a good sport and try new things but this is one thing that I couldn’t bring myself to do! After breakfast we gathered back on the bus and headed to visit a cloisonné factory, a type of artwork that is native to China. It was pretty interesting; we were able to see people making different objects such as vases, jewelry, and sculptures. Following that we visited the Ming Tombs where 14 of the 16 Ming Dynasty emperors and empresses are buried. The grounds above the tombs covered a large area which was filled with trees and other plants. Descending down about 10 flights of stairs was quite a task but once we got to where the tombs were it was incredible. China has such a long history and to be able to be in the same vicinity as the majority of China’s past rulers was mind-boggling. When we left the Ming Tombs we went to lunch at Dayi Restaurant. The food was better here, a little more familiarity with sweet and sour pork and spring rolls. We had to fill up though because after lunch we went to climb the Great Wall. This was by far the high point of my time in China. Our day was not very clear but as our bus approached the Great Wall I could instantly see and feel its splendor. We arrived at one area where were to begin our hike. Our guide informed us that it would take two hours to climb up and back down so we scrambled off the bus and hit the stairs. The pictures do not do it justice, but is surprisingly steeper than we anticipated. We were all a little winded about half way up but it added to the experience. It was overwhelming to realize that I was ascending up the Great Wall of China. The Great Wall! I was finally here after all this time. I had a huge smile on my face the entire time as did all the SASers. We stopped at various points for pictures however I know a few pictures stops were opportunities to catch a quick breath. The stairs were very small, definitely made for people with smaller feet. They were also very far apart making the incline that much more challenging. Once we reached the very top of this section we gathered to take it all in. It was really special because after a few moments of looking around we all got silent. The awe of being on the Great Wall finally sank in. Various emotions overcame me at that moment. I thought about where I was and what I have seen and done up to this point. I felt truly humbled and grateful. I even called the family and woke them up at 3 am to let them know that I was on top of the Great Wall! Reluctantly, we began our climb done. Again we were all a little more quiet, either to take time to meditate or because of exhaustion. At the bottom, I saw a camel. Yes, I said a camel. I know, it was strange for me too. However, it was there and I couldn’t pass up an opportunity to ride a camel while at the base of the Great Wall. I mean, how many people can be able to do that! So I paid 20 Yuen ($3) to ride Yeni the camel for about 5 minutes but it was well worth it. I climbed on top and sat between her two humps. The last time I was on a camel was when I was four and I forgot how comfortable they ride, like a regular ‘ol Cadillac! After I said my goodbye to Yeni and the Great Wall we headed back to the University for dinner and a party with the students. Dinner was filling as all the meals have been. The party afterwards was fun; we had a little game of limbo and other contests. It became obvious to the SASers that these students don’t get out much or they really like limbo!
On Friday we had breakfast again at the hotel. Our first stop was at the Temple of Heaven which is situated in the largest park in all of Beijing. We had time to explore the main temple and other buildings of the complex. It was another grand sight with some of the most beautiful Chinese architecture I have seen. We strolled through an area where people played games and practiced Tai Chi. There was a large group of people congregated around pieces of paper so we thought we would check it out. We couldn’t figure out what they were doing. Thankfully a British man explained to us that this was a location for Chinese people to meet a prospective husband or wife. The papers were actually ads describing their families and what they wanted in a partner. I guess this was China’s version of Match.com! We met up with the rest of the group but decided to skip lunch. We found out that the Temple of Heaven was near the infamous Pearl Market where strands of fresh and salt water pearls are incredibly inexpensive. About five of us girls walked to the market and spent over an hour browsing and purchasing pearls. The factory was huge, literally floor after floor of pearl vendors. We met back up with the group at Tiananmen Square. This was one of the most interesting sights to learn about in Global Studies. We watched a documentary about the Tank Man in the spring of 1989. Everyone should know about this significant historical event. We went into the Forbidden City but took pictures including a group one in front of Chairman Mao’s memorial hall. This palace is the largest and most complete of China’s existing palaces and the former residence of 24 emperors. A few of us left the group at that time to take a taxi back to the hotel. It was an hour ride with traffic. The number of cars in Beijing is countless. We were able to rest before dinner. We didn’t make it on time to meet with the group because of traffic…so we stopped at McDonald’s. It was actually a nice break. We did make it to the acrobatic show which was phenomenal! The stunts that the performers did seemed impossible but they made them look too easy. They did flips through rings of fire and 15 people artistically rode a single bike. Everyone should see these pictures…incredible! That night we hit the town. We went to an area of bars and restaurants that surrounded a gorgeous lake. There weren’t that many people out but we had an exciting night nonetheless. We first shared a stick of sugared strawberries. They were delicious, however dangerous. Katie, not me, cut her finger from the crystallized sugar. And from then on it got even more interesting. We went into a bar called Sex and Da City, catchy name. They led us to an area where a table was but it was more like a bed with pillows and a little table. It was fun until we got yelled at by a pole dancer. This is such a crazy story but we were upstairs taking pictures of the bed/table because it was so funny. Well the pole dancer thought we took a picture of her and she got a little upset…we actually have no idea what she said since she spoke Chinese but we could tell it wasn’t good! Then we ordered wine but it turned out to be more water than wine. With that we figured we hit three strikes so we called it a night. All in all we had a great time; it was fun to recap the next morning on all the craziness!
Saturday, our last day in Beijing, began with breakfast at the hotel again. We weren’t too sad to leave the hotel though. We spent the morning touring the Summer Palace which is a large area that was built for the emperor and empress for rest and relaxation. It reminded me a lot of home with buildings encircling a large and beautiful lake. The trees were so green and flowers were blooming. The sense of spring was everywhere. Our last stop at the Palace was at the large Marble Boat. We took a boat, a wooden one, across the lake to get back to our bus. It was very relaxing and made me think of home even though Chinese influence surrounded me. Back on the bus we departed for the airport for our flight to Qingdao. Most of us took advantage of the hour and a half to rest from the past few days of nonstop activity. However, I wouldn’t have it any other way. We only have so much time in each port and taking advantage of every moment and every opportunity is vital. We landed in Qingdao and got onto another bus to get to the ship. Another group of SASers was on our flight so our bus driver and theirs raced to get to the dock. We won, but after almost going off the road ourselves. I know we cut off a few cars, notably a van of government officials! That night we walked around downtown but had to cut the night short. ATM cards as well as VISA were not accepted anywhere and many of us didn’t have any Yuen left.
Sunday was our last day in China. Many of us stayed on the ship. The weather wasn’t very good and like the night before many didn’t have Yuen left. It was perfect though, I finally got to sleep in and catch up on some rest. The Explorer set sail for Kobe at exactly 11 pm. I couldn’t believe we only had one last country before we are home in the States. I remember the Bahamas like it was last week. I had to stop thinking about the fact that this experience was coming to a close because we still have Japan…and I felt like we were going to go out with a bang…
Hong Kong
Arrival to this port was very different than any other. We went through cultural and logistical pre-ports the night before as usual. The morning of arrival usual consists of a diplomatic briefing after inspection by customs officials. However, an announcement came over the ship’s intercom informing us about the massacre that had just taken place at Virginia Tech. Silence overtook the entire ship. No one moved or made a noise. One of the professors read an article from the New York Times with the latest information. It was too close to home for many students as some, one who I know well, are from VT. It wasn’t long before the news sank in and tears and anger filled the silence. Talking erupted and questions were asked. No one could make sense of the news we had just received. As college students ourselves we could identify with many of the thoughts and feelings that were more than likely being felt across the nation as well as the world. The Dean of students spoke to us, reminding everyone that as a shipboard community that we must stick together and take care of one another during this fragile time. As horrible as it was to hear this news I could feel the ship come closer together, each of us reflecting on how lucky we all were to have this opportunity to travel the world and be together. After a moment of silence, the Dean noted that there would not be a diplomatic briefing out of respect for those who needed more time to digest this devastating announcement. Archbishop Desmond Tutu walked into the Union and began addressing the ship. I could see the agony that he felt. It was written all over his face. He said that a horrible thing has happened and that pain will be felt all over the world. He prayed for the victims, the perpetrator, and all those affected. He said we must remember that God is in control and will take care of His children, all of His children, including the young man who caused this crime. Then he ended with his infamous belief that we all have an “incredible capacity for good.” He said we must not dwell, we must help heal and go out into these next few ports as ambassadors of goodness. Considering the situation, this was the only way I could think of going out into Hong Kong and enjoying my time.
Thankfully, the encouragement from Archbishop Tutu gave many of us strength. We were able to have a day filled with laughter and great memories. Kate, Lindsay, Meg, Allie and I ventured into the city to find the good markets everyone kept talking about. We heard that this was a great place to find pearls, but unfortunately we were unable to find the right place. No problem there though we busied ourselves with the streets and streets of markets selling anything and everything. One of the most popular things people were selling was fake designer bags…and what a process this was! As we walked from vendor to vendor they would show pictures of the bags and purses that they had but there was a catch. In order to see these pieces we had to follow them up flights of stairs to a secluded room where they had them stored. At first I thought we were being led to who knows where. Thankfully there were many other people in these “rooms” so we didn’t feel alone. But it didn’t take away from how creepy it all was. This I think was the closest to the underground market that I have ever come! All in all it was a fun and random experience that made a good story. The day was a little gloomy and rain fell off and on throughout the afternoon. Around dinner time we all made the consensus to go to Pizza Hut…I know, I know. Nevertheless it was delicious and no one had stomach issues from it! That night we went out for a couple drinks and enjoyed the glorious skyline of Hong Kong. It was an early night though due to the morning flight to Beijing.
Thankfully, the encouragement from Archbishop Tutu gave many of us strength. We were able to have a day filled with laughter and great memories. Kate, Lindsay, Meg, Allie and I ventured into the city to find the good markets everyone kept talking about. We heard that this was a great place to find pearls, but unfortunately we were unable to find the right place. No problem there though we busied ourselves with the streets and streets of markets selling anything and everything. One of the most popular things people were selling was fake designer bags…and what a process this was! As we walked from vendor to vendor they would show pictures of the bags and purses that they had but there was a catch. In order to see these pieces we had to follow them up flights of stairs to a secluded room where they had them stored. At first I thought we were being led to who knows where. Thankfully there were many other people in these “rooms” so we didn’t feel alone. But it didn’t take away from how creepy it all was. This I think was the closest to the underground market that I have ever come! All in all it was a fun and random experience that made a good story. The day was a little gloomy and rain fell off and on throughout the afternoon. Around dinner time we all made the consensus to go to Pizza Hut…I know, I know. Nevertheless it was delicious and no one had stomach issues from it! That night we went out for a couple drinks and enjoyed the glorious skyline of Hong Kong. It was an early night though due to the morning flight to Beijing.
Sunday, April 22, 2007
Vietnam: Cheap thrills and so much more...
Time has certainly gone by faster than I have ever imagined possible. My time in Vietnam was a blur but excellent non-the-less. The first day, Monday, April 9th was spent seeing Ho Chi Minh and shopping in the markets. Transportation to and from the ship was very exhilarating…via motorbike! Ok, so it was probably not the safest way to get around but it was liberating to be able to just get on and go. The warm wind in my face really brought me out of the city and into another world where I felt free. This is probably a crazy way to describe how I felt but it was really what we all looked forward to. Everywhere we went was by motorbike and to make it even better it was only $1 anywhere in the city! Talk about cheap thrills! One of the many shop stops was at a tailor shop. From past SASers and travel books we learned that Vietnam was the place to go to get dresses and suits custom-made. Since the Ambassador’s Ball is coming up everyone wanted to get a something made. The one we found was off the beaten path but proved to be well worth it. The group of girls I was with spent about 4 hours total in that little shop…we had dresses, suits, coats, blouses, etc made. Of course we got them at reasonable prices and each one fit perfectly to our bodies. At least this was what we kept repeating to ourselves! Then we took another joyride back to the ship to have dinner and get ready to go out. For a group of girls we got ready in record time and we went to a club called Apocalypse Now. This was the place where all the SASers ventured to. The music was fun but the drinks were surprisingly expensive. Nevertheless we had a good time.
Tuesday, April 10th was spent at the Cu Chi Tunnels and Cao Dai Temple. The bus ride was about three hours to get to the Temple, but it provided good sleeping time. The Temple was very interesting. Caodaism is an indigenous religion to Vietnam and is “the attempt to create the ideal religion through the fusion of the secular and religious philosophies of the East and West. The result is a colorful potpourri that includes elements of Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism, Hinduism, native Vietnamese spiritism, Christianity, and Islam.” The followers believe in one God, the existence of the soul, and the use of mediums to communicate with the spiritual world. They also believe in the Eye which sees all…nothing escapes it. Awkwardly enough when I entered the Temple I did feel that I was being watched. It was very strange but interesting. Thousands of people travel to this place to explore this one of a kind religion. Fortunately there was a service at noon and we were able to watch it for a while. From the Temple we drove another two hours to the Cu Chi tunnels. Famous for its 200-kilometer network of underground tunnels, it was created and used by the Viet Cong forces during the war. They were used to “launch strategic attacks and then seemingly disappear into thin air. The tunnels had well-hidden entrances and thick roofs which were capable of withstanding the weight of tanks and the impact of bombs.” Troops from America actually built a base on top of some of the tunnels which caused many casualties for the US troops. The sizes of the tunnels were so incredibly small, only about two feet wide with five feet high. Thankfully some of them were enlarged so we could crawl through them. They were very dark and we literally had to get down on our hands and knees. But this was all amazing to actually go through, physically and emotionally. Being so close to actual war territory was mind-blowing. The bus ride back was consistent with the way here…more time to sleep from a long day.
Wednesday, April 11th was another day to…shop! I mean how could a girl pass up great shopping with prices so low? OK, so I didn’t go too crazy but this was a great location to get gifts. And I can’t forget to mention we had a few rides on the motorbike to and from various markets. But the day did have a great deal of educational value to it. Lindsay, Allie, and I visited the Museum of War Remnants. It is housed in the former U.S. Information Service building. In the museum I was able to experience many photographers’ accounts of the war, all disturbing in every sense of the word. The majority of the museum consisted of photos but there was a section of other artifacts that stirred even more emotion and feelings of anger and frustration. One particular segment focused on the effects of Agent Orange. Now I have heard and read about this chemical weapon but never to the extent of which I saw and read in this museum. The main purpose was to clear the foliage to uncover the Vietnamese. However, the devastation that it caused was much more horrendous. What I think was the worst though was that its effects are still being felt all over Vietnam, Cambodia, and even the States. I saw pictures of soldiers from both sides with sores, burns, and other complications that were from Agent Orange. It really hit me though when I saw the pictures of the children that were born with deformities and mental illness. In one area there was a glass window and in it were two glass jars. I couldn’t make out what was in the jars until closer inspection. When I realized what it was I immediately felt nauseated. One jar had an unborn child with the umbilical cord still attached. The head of the fetus was larger than the rest of the body and it made it seem like it was not human. The other jar was even harder to look at. Two fetuses obviously attached at the head were so deformed that they had extra digits and their limbs bent in unnatural ways. All these babies were aborted naturally by their mothers because of the effects of Agent Orange and to see them being displayed as some science project made me feel even sicker. Other areas of the museum showed how the Americans detained Vietnamese hostages. I wish I were able to describe in vivid detail how despicable the treatment was. So to try to do that, I took pictures but I know that it is something that has to be seen in person to truly grasp. Another thing which was brought to my attention was the fact that U.S. media has neglected to divulge a lot of this information and photography. Sadly in a place where the media is legally allowed to be distributed, I find it convenient that my government has hidden these images and facts. I bought a book outside the museum gates; it is the memoir of Robert S. McNamara, the former Secretary of Defense during the war. It captured my attention when I saw a portion of the museum which focused on the post-war activities. He says, “We of the Kennedy and Johnson administrations who participated in the decisions on Vietnam acted according to what we thought were the principles and traditions of this nation. We made our decisions in light of those values. Yet we were wrong, terribly wrong. We owe it to future generations to explain why.” I believe he is right…much was done wrong to this country. And I can’t understand why I was treated so nicely by them even though they knew that I am a citizen of the country which caused them so much pain. They welcomed me to their country and were so enthusiastic to share their lives…another illustration of the power of forgiveness and the goodness of humankind.
Thursday, April 12th was spent at the Mekong Delta. This area is vastly marshlands and forest. It is famous for its coconut palms and fruit orchards. We were able to try mangoes, longans, bananas, grapefruit, jackfruit, and pineapple. All were delicious! We also got to sample fresh honey and an exotic blend of teas. The river was very active with ferry boats transporting workers to and from the various islands and individuals rowing small wooden boats. Our lunch was on another secluded island where we were served fresh elephant ear fish, spring rolls, and other Vietnamese cuisine. Trolling down the river was very relaxing and the wind was warm and the air fresh. To see the way of life on this place was so fantastic, another insight to our great world.
The last day, Friday, in Vietnam was bittersweet. I was sad to leave but the conclusion of my time was the highlight which was spent with the children from the Tam Binh orphanage. There are about 100 orphans, all born to HIV-positive mothers or are infected themselves. Immediately when our group entered the immaculate orphanage we were bombarded with smiling faces and open arms. Each child latched on to a new friend, and the one that chose me did not let go until the end of the day. He was about four years old and had the face of an angel. They were so excited to see us and we have stickers and gifts to give them. We toured the facilities and I observed how well kept the place was. I saw where the children slept, ate, and attended classes. Each room was in good order and appeared safe for the children. Since these children are not able to attend regular school we asked our director who teaches the children. He told us that one man teaches them all and that it was very difficult to get him to teach these children since the stigma of HIV is so negative and many people are afraid to be associated with it. However after a while the teacher overcame his fear and committed to teaching the children. There are also some children with developmental delays who require one-on-one teaching. We were informed that there is a volunteer program which consists of mostly women who teach these children to get them up to speed with the others. The majority of the time was spent at the water park. We played games, watched a monkey show, and looked at animals with the children. They seemed to really enjoy their time but we were instructed to not ask them about or mention HIV. At first I was surprised but at the end of the day I realized why the directors asked us not to. They wanted the children to have a fun-filled day where they were able to get out of the orphanage. I was surprised to learn how much HIV is discriminated against and how much stigma is attached to HIV. I learned that some efforts are being made to tackle this such as health promotion programs which aim to educate the public. Billboards, ads, and the distribution of condoms are all tactics being put into use. Unfortunately, Vietnam has a long way to go. I just hope that the children at Tam Binh will be able to live to see the day where they are all accepted for who they are not what they may or may not be infected with. The one little boy who latched on to me at the orphanage had yet to let go of my hand, it was so sweet. I just wished I was able to hold his hand every day. I could tell that he yearned for his parents or for anyone to love him. Here was another example of the power of human touch like what I experienced in India. It was unbearable to think that he lives each day knowing that no one wants him because of something that he has no control over. I hope that he knows that he will remain in my memory as well as my heart even though we may never see each other again. And with that I left this beautiful country...with the hope to return one day soon.
Tuesday, April 10th was spent at the Cu Chi Tunnels and Cao Dai Temple. The bus ride was about three hours to get to the Temple, but it provided good sleeping time. The Temple was very interesting. Caodaism is an indigenous religion to Vietnam and is “the attempt to create the ideal religion through the fusion of the secular and religious philosophies of the East and West. The result is a colorful potpourri that includes elements of Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism, Hinduism, native Vietnamese spiritism, Christianity, and Islam.” The followers believe in one God, the existence of the soul, and the use of mediums to communicate with the spiritual world. They also believe in the Eye which sees all…nothing escapes it. Awkwardly enough when I entered the Temple I did feel that I was being watched. It was very strange but interesting. Thousands of people travel to this place to explore this one of a kind religion. Fortunately there was a service at noon and we were able to watch it for a while. From the Temple we drove another two hours to the Cu Chi tunnels. Famous for its 200-kilometer network of underground tunnels, it was created and used by the Viet Cong forces during the war. They were used to “launch strategic attacks and then seemingly disappear into thin air. The tunnels had well-hidden entrances and thick roofs which were capable of withstanding the weight of tanks and the impact of bombs.” Troops from America actually built a base on top of some of the tunnels which caused many casualties for the US troops. The sizes of the tunnels were so incredibly small, only about two feet wide with five feet high. Thankfully some of them were enlarged so we could crawl through them. They were very dark and we literally had to get down on our hands and knees. But this was all amazing to actually go through, physically and emotionally. Being so close to actual war territory was mind-blowing. The bus ride back was consistent with the way here…more time to sleep from a long day.
Wednesday, April 11th was another day to…shop! I mean how could a girl pass up great shopping with prices so low? OK, so I didn’t go too crazy but this was a great location to get gifts. And I can’t forget to mention we had a few rides on the motorbike to and from various markets. But the day did have a great deal of educational value to it. Lindsay, Allie, and I visited the Museum of War Remnants. It is housed in the former U.S. Information Service building. In the museum I was able to experience many photographers’ accounts of the war, all disturbing in every sense of the word. The majority of the museum consisted of photos but there was a section of other artifacts that stirred even more emotion and feelings of anger and frustration. One particular segment focused on the effects of Agent Orange. Now I have heard and read about this chemical weapon but never to the extent of which I saw and read in this museum. The main purpose was to clear the foliage to uncover the Vietnamese. However, the devastation that it caused was much more horrendous. What I think was the worst though was that its effects are still being felt all over Vietnam, Cambodia, and even the States. I saw pictures of soldiers from both sides with sores, burns, and other complications that were from Agent Orange. It really hit me though when I saw the pictures of the children that were born with deformities and mental illness. In one area there was a glass window and in it were two glass jars. I couldn’t make out what was in the jars until closer inspection. When I realized what it was I immediately felt nauseated. One jar had an unborn child with the umbilical cord still attached. The head of the fetus was larger than the rest of the body and it made it seem like it was not human. The other jar was even harder to look at. Two fetuses obviously attached at the head were so deformed that they had extra digits and their limbs bent in unnatural ways. All these babies were aborted naturally by their mothers because of the effects of Agent Orange and to see them being displayed as some science project made me feel even sicker. Other areas of the museum showed how the Americans detained Vietnamese hostages. I wish I were able to describe in vivid detail how despicable the treatment was. So to try to do that, I took pictures but I know that it is something that has to be seen in person to truly grasp. Another thing which was brought to my attention was the fact that U.S. media has neglected to divulge a lot of this information and photography. Sadly in a place where the media is legally allowed to be distributed, I find it convenient that my government has hidden these images and facts. I bought a book outside the museum gates; it is the memoir of Robert S. McNamara, the former Secretary of Defense during the war. It captured my attention when I saw a portion of the museum which focused on the post-war activities. He says, “We of the Kennedy and Johnson administrations who participated in the decisions on Vietnam acted according to what we thought were the principles and traditions of this nation. We made our decisions in light of those values. Yet we were wrong, terribly wrong. We owe it to future generations to explain why.” I believe he is right…much was done wrong to this country. And I can’t understand why I was treated so nicely by them even though they knew that I am a citizen of the country which caused them so much pain. They welcomed me to their country and were so enthusiastic to share their lives…another illustration of the power of forgiveness and the goodness of humankind.
Thursday, April 12th was spent at the Mekong Delta. This area is vastly marshlands and forest. It is famous for its coconut palms and fruit orchards. We were able to try mangoes, longans, bananas, grapefruit, jackfruit, and pineapple. All were delicious! We also got to sample fresh honey and an exotic blend of teas. The river was very active with ferry boats transporting workers to and from the various islands and individuals rowing small wooden boats. Our lunch was on another secluded island where we were served fresh elephant ear fish, spring rolls, and other Vietnamese cuisine. Trolling down the river was very relaxing and the wind was warm and the air fresh. To see the way of life on this place was so fantastic, another insight to our great world.
The last day, Friday, in Vietnam was bittersweet. I was sad to leave but the conclusion of my time was the highlight which was spent with the children from the Tam Binh orphanage. There are about 100 orphans, all born to HIV-positive mothers or are infected themselves. Immediately when our group entered the immaculate orphanage we were bombarded with smiling faces and open arms. Each child latched on to a new friend, and the one that chose me did not let go until the end of the day. He was about four years old and had the face of an angel. They were so excited to see us and we have stickers and gifts to give them. We toured the facilities and I observed how well kept the place was. I saw where the children slept, ate, and attended classes. Each room was in good order and appeared safe for the children. Since these children are not able to attend regular school we asked our director who teaches the children. He told us that one man teaches them all and that it was very difficult to get him to teach these children since the stigma of HIV is so negative and many people are afraid to be associated with it. However after a while the teacher overcame his fear and committed to teaching the children. There are also some children with developmental delays who require one-on-one teaching. We were informed that there is a volunteer program which consists of mostly women who teach these children to get them up to speed with the others. The majority of the time was spent at the water park. We played games, watched a monkey show, and looked at animals with the children. They seemed to really enjoy their time but we were instructed to not ask them about or mention HIV. At first I was surprised but at the end of the day I realized why the directors asked us not to. They wanted the children to have a fun-filled day where they were able to get out of the orphanage. I was surprised to learn how much HIV is discriminated against and how much stigma is attached to HIV. I learned that some efforts are being made to tackle this such as health promotion programs which aim to educate the public. Billboards, ads, and the distribution of condoms are all tactics being put into use. Unfortunately, Vietnam has a long way to go. I just hope that the children at Tam Binh will be able to live to see the day where they are all accepted for who they are not what they may or may not be infected with. The one little boy who latched on to me at the orphanage had yet to let go of my hand, it was so sweet. I just wished I was able to hold his hand every day. I could tell that he yearned for his parents or for anyone to love him. Here was another example of the power of human touch like what I experienced in India. It was unbearable to think that he lives each day knowing that no one wants him because of something that he has no control over. I hope that he knows that he will remain in my memory as well as my heart even though we may never see each other again. And with that I left this beautiful country...with the hope to return one day soon.
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Looking at Malaysia
Follow the link to see pictures of my time in Malaysia...
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Malaysia!!!
Reeling from my experience in India, I feel that only three days at sea was not enough to prepare for Malaysia. However, this is another lesson that Semester at Sea has been teaching me: to adapt and be flexible. Nevertheless the Explorer sailed through the Strait of Malacca and we arrived in the island of Penang, Malaysia on Monday, April 2nd.
Another first happened; we all had to get into the lifeboats…thankfully only to be transported from the bay to the port. It is exciting to always have something new! Our first day was a fun one, a day with the girls. Kate, Jen, Brit, and I got acquainted with Georgetown, the capital of the island and state of Penang. It is one of the largest islands in the Strait of Malacca and was previously a hideaway for pirates! Unfortunately, the pirates have vacated but there was still a lot to see!
Our first stop was to get some coffee and then we “planned” on visiting an internet café. However, the café was located in the Kumptar Tower, a very large mall which offered anything and everything at prices that made Wal-Mart seem steep! After a few hours of indulgence, we ventured back to the port to take the lifeboats back to the ship. We grabbed a bite to eat and then met up with some friends to experience the nightlife of Penang.
On Tuesday a group of 120 SASers boarded three large tour buses to Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia. What should have been a four hour drive turned into a ten hour day! The combination of traffic, rain, and well, unknown reasons, we arrived in KL around 5pm. This city was absolutely incredible! It is known as the Garden City of Lights with breathtaking architecture and plush greenery highlighting the old and new parts of the city. There are colonial buildings, a lively Chinatown, and buildings such as the Petronas Towers which are two of the tallest and most spectacular buildings in the world! The population is close to two million and is the where the central government resides. We checked into the Swiss Garden Hotel, another nice accommodation provided by SAS. Then we went to our welcome reception which was lovely. The food was plentiful with choices from Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Thai cuisine. I will have to admit though that the dessert selection was delectable! The rest of the reception we were entertained by a multicultural dancing from India, Malaysia, and China. After the colorful show a few of us met some friends at another hotel…one that looked directly at the Petronas Towers…phenomenal! The night was fantastic and we got to experience how energetic nightlife is in KL.
Wednesday was spent touring KL. We drove by the Jamek Mosque, Sultan Abdul Samad Building, KL Central (Rail system), and Chinatown. It was amazing to see the unique combination of all the different religions and ethnicities in the area. We stopped at the Royal Palace and took pictures with some of the guards and their horses. The gates were intricately decorated in a shiny gold. The next stop was at the National Museum, an interesting insight to the history of Malaysia. Then it was to the Lake Garden and the National Monument. The best part was ascending up the 421-foot KL Tower for a bird’s eye view of the entire city. Overlooking all the places we just visited was great and seeing the Petronas Towers at that height was awesome! Our tour ended with a Chinese lunch at a local restaurant. When we returned to the hotel, Stacy and I headed off to explore more of KL. It is a bustling city. We ended up shopping and getting the famous reflexology massage…very refreshing. Then we got dolled up for another night on the town!
Our last day in KL was a short one. After breakfast we checked out of the hotel and got back on the buses for Penang. Thankfully the drive was only 6 hours instead of 10. We got to watch movies though so the time went by faster. At port the line to take the lifeboat back to the ship was long. We had to wait over an hour but it was fun to catch up with everyone and share stories.
Overall, Malaysia was a great place to visit. It is hard for me though to think that only a week ago I was in India. The experiences that I had there will forever be life changing but that is not to discount my time in Malaysia. I am very thankful to have had three days in this fascinating country. Though I think there is a lot more to learn, see, and do here. Again, that is one thing that SAS has taught me: to really dig deep into a culture and drink it all in. I hope that I am fortunate enough to come back. I had a really great time. I was able to relax, enjoy my friends, and make memories. So for that I am thankful.
Another first happened; we all had to get into the lifeboats…thankfully only to be transported from the bay to the port. It is exciting to always have something new! Our first day was a fun one, a day with the girls. Kate, Jen, Brit, and I got acquainted with Georgetown, the capital of the island and state of Penang. It is one of the largest islands in the Strait of Malacca and was previously a hideaway for pirates! Unfortunately, the pirates have vacated but there was still a lot to see!
Our first stop was to get some coffee and then we “planned” on visiting an internet café. However, the café was located in the Kumptar Tower, a very large mall which offered anything and everything at prices that made Wal-Mart seem steep! After a few hours of indulgence, we ventured back to the port to take the lifeboats back to the ship. We grabbed a bite to eat and then met up with some friends to experience the nightlife of Penang.
On Tuesday a group of 120 SASers boarded three large tour buses to Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia. What should have been a four hour drive turned into a ten hour day! The combination of traffic, rain, and well, unknown reasons, we arrived in KL around 5pm. This city was absolutely incredible! It is known as the Garden City of Lights with breathtaking architecture and plush greenery highlighting the old and new parts of the city. There are colonial buildings, a lively Chinatown, and buildings such as the Petronas Towers which are two of the tallest and most spectacular buildings in the world! The population is close to two million and is the where the central government resides. We checked into the Swiss Garden Hotel, another nice accommodation provided by SAS. Then we went to our welcome reception which was lovely. The food was plentiful with choices from Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Thai cuisine. I will have to admit though that the dessert selection was delectable! The rest of the reception we were entertained by a multicultural dancing from India, Malaysia, and China. After the colorful show a few of us met some friends at another hotel…one that looked directly at the Petronas Towers…phenomenal! The night was fantastic and we got to experience how energetic nightlife is in KL.
Wednesday was spent touring KL. We drove by the Jamek Mosque, Sultan Abdul Samad Building, KL Central (Rail system), and Chinatown. It was amazing to see the unique combination of all the different religions and ethnicities in the area. We stopped at the Royal Palace and took pictures with some of the guards and their horses. The gates were intricately decorated in a shiny gold. The next stop was at the National Museum, an interesting insight to the history of Malaysia. Then it was to the Lake Garden and the National Monument. The best part was ascending up the 421-foot KL Tower for a bird’s eye view of the entire city. Overlooking all the places we just visited was great and seeing the Petronas Towers at that height was awesome! Our tour ended with a Chinese lunch at a local restaurant. When we returned to the hotel, Stacy and I headed off to explore more of KL. It is a bustling city. We ended up shopping and getting the famous reflexology massage…very refreshing. Then we got dolled up for another night on the town!
Our last day in KL was a short one. After breakfast we checked out of the hotel and got back on the buses for Penang. Thankfully the drive was only 6 hours instead of 10. We got to watch movies though so the time went by faster. At port the line to take the lifeboat back to the ship was long. We had to wait over an hour but it was fun to catch up with everyone and share stories.
Overall, Malaysia was a great place to visit. It is hard for me though to think that only a week ago I was in India. The experiences that I had there will forever be life changing but that is not to discount my time in Malaysia. I am very thankful to have had three days in this fascinating country. Though I think there is a lot more to learn, see, and do here. Again, that is one thing that SAS has taught me: to really dig deep into a culture and drink it all in. I hope that I am fortunate enough to come back. I had a really great time. I was able to relax, enjoy my friends, and make memories. So for that I am thankful.
Friday, April 6, 2007
Seeing India
Follow the link for more pictures of India...
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Saturday, March 31, 2007
A place called India...
The task of describing each country has yet to become easy. I thought after half way through this voyage I would be able to quickly put down in words what each country looked and felt like. Fortunately, yes fortunately, this has persisted to challenge me. To describe India though has proven to be more difficult than the other ports. This country never ceased to provoke new thoughts and ideas that I once had about it, myself, and the world. For that I will always be grateful.
The Explorer docked in Chennai on Sunday, March 25th at precisely 0800. The Captain had again displayed his likeness for punctuality. Officials from India and US Customs boarded the ship while everyone on board ate breakfast and eagerly waited to begin their Indian adventures. My first adventure in India included an orientation to the city of Chennai with other SAS students and faculty. When the ship was cleared by Customs we were welcomed by Indian musicians and dancers on the dock and the heat and humidity of the Indian air. With a temperature over 90 degrees and a humidity resembling that of a steam room, I knew this was going to be a very unique experience. Oh, and I can not forget to mention the distinct, and utterly indescribable odor that India exposes its visitors to. But again every element contributed to its uniqueness.
Chennai is the fourth-largest city in India and is the capital of the southern state of Tamilnadu. Tamil is the official language of this state; however the country has 21 official languages. We were taken through the city center on Mount Road. Our large tour bus looked very out of place next to the small auto rickshaws, three wheeled autos no bigger than a go kart, and the countless number of motorcycles and scooters. I would like to mention that I will never complain about traffic again, or at least I will try very hard not to! The drive through the residential areas provided a striking contrast between rich and poor, the haves and have-nots. On one side of the street were palm and thatch covered shacks and on the other beautifully manicured homes and flats (apartments). The depiction of India as a country of contrasts became ever so apparent. We were lucky to be able to visit a home of one an Indian family. We were told that this particular family was very successful in the silk and textile industry owning many shops around the city. Needless to say they were from the “right” side of the street. We were welcomed with open arms and given food and drink right when we stepped into the home. They were very excited to share their home and lives with us. Question after question were exchanged and our dialogue flowed easily. The daughter of the family had just graduated from University and was very enthusiastic to talk with other students. Her name was Divya, and is now teaching English at an elementary school. After our delightful and engaging conversation she offered to show us the “real” Chennai. So we set a time and exchanged numbers to meet on Tuesday for her to show us around. How exciting! We said our goodbyes and thanked the family for their hospitality. The tour then took us to the family’s shop where we were able to look and purchase beautiful and luxurious silks for prices that made us feel like we were stealing! I was also able to try on and eventually buy a traditional and very elegant dress of the Indian women. It is called a saree it comes in every color imaginable and is made of the finest silk that I have ever touched. The one I chose was a rich black with delicate yellow and gold designs. Each piece was intricately hand-stitched making it appear only for a queen.
The influence and heritage of British India was seen in many parts of the city. The Fort St. George, which contains St. Mary’s Church and the Fort Museum were beautiful landmarks displaying rich history. We then passed by Marina Beach, the second longest beach in the world after the beach in Rio de Janeiro in Brazil. Many people could be seen playing the popular sports of cricket and football (soccer). It was interesting to see though that no one was in the water due to the intense currents of the Bay of Bengal even though the temperatures continued to soar throughout the day. A monument constructed of Gandhi was in near the Marina. It was so rewarding to see that after studying about him and the enormous impact he had for this country. Passing the beach, we saw Madras University, or as it is known today as the University of Chennai, which is an elegantly designed structure with rich red bricks and trees outlining its gates. Then our tour led us to the oldest section of Chennai. Here we visited the San Thome Cathedral where the apostle Thomas was buried. It was vibrant white and relatively small compared to some of the cathedrals that I have seen in Europe. But its significance could not be matched. After removing our shoes, we descended down stairs which led to a dark corridor. The light was minimal and we could only see directly in front of us. When we entered the room where St. Thomas’ tomb was I was instantly overcome with a feeling that I was somewhere special. To be in a place where the apostle that physically touched Jesus after He rose from the dead was inconceivable. Goosebumps instantly took over my body and words were unable to be spoken. Pictures lined the walls near the door displaying images of Pope John Paul II visiting the tomb. What an honor to be in this place in this incredible country! From there we were taken to another religious site, a Hindu temple. With an ancient history and remarkable discipline from its believers, I was immediately interested in learning more about Hinduism. Each and every day the Hindi people travel to the temples to worship and perform rituals honoring their many gods. Statues and flowers were everywhere signifying their strong faith and beliefs.
That night was spent at a welcome reception which was hosted by local university students. Set in the courtyard of beautiful hotel, we were offered jasmine flower buds which smelled divine. Indian women in sarees applied kum-kum, the red dot of sandalwood paste on our foreheads and sprinkled us with rose water. Kate and I wore our new sarees along with other SAS students. It was so fun to be immersed in this fascinating culture! With Indian music in the background we talked with the students and shared stories about our lives. Many things were very different and yet many the same. The food was delicious, with spices that I have never tasted before. Now I know why India is referred to as the land of spices! After we were given henna tattoos on our hands and watched a Bharata Natyam dance, both traditional art forms. This dance is the subtle and sophisticated dance-art of Tamilnadu, according to the director. It is very dynamic and precise using a variety of complex body postures and movements. The dress was also something to be noted with gold jewelry dripping from every limb which added to the music of the dance. It was a superb evening, a perfect welcome to India!
The next day, Monday, offered a more intimate depiction of Hinduism. Our first stop was in a city called Kancheepuram, or Golden City. It is one of the seven most sacred places of pilgrimage for Hindus. It once was the home of more than a thousand temples but only a few hundred remain. One temple, the Kailasantha Temple, is over 1200 years old and paintings from the 7th and 8th centuries can still be seen today. Each temple is has layers and layers of sculptures and designs, some up to ten stories. Thousands of Hindus were worshipping and many preparing for an upcoming festival. Our guide told us that every Hindu participates in the preparations and actual celebration. This city is also well-known for its silk weaving and we were able to see it in action. The looms that the silk is woven on are large and appear difficult to maneuver. One of the weavers told us that he works on one saree for over 8 hours a day for 40 days. Each day he weaves only 35 centimeters! Incredible!
The next stop was in Mamallapuram, an ancient port city which is now a popular beach resort area. Here we visited the 1200 year old Shore Temple. It was by far the most stunning temple. Its background consisted of the Bay of Bengal and lush greenery surrounding it on all sides. People bathing in the waters and performing rituals provided another insight to Hinduism. From there we visited the Five Rathas, stone edifices which were sculpted and shaped into temple prototypes. Monkeys and goats were all over the premise, many coming right up to us. At one point we were surrounded by monkeys which looked like they were going to jump on us at any moment! A man with a monkey on a leash performed tricks for us and numerous street vendors tried to sell us handicrafts. It was the little children selling beads that got to me though. Looking into their eyes and seeing their frail, bony bodies was too much. Many of us helped the little ones make a few rupees (Indian currency). Appropriately enough, we then went to eat lunch at a luxurious restaurant not far from Mamallapuram. It was the transition from one extreme to the next that tried me the most. At one moment I was in the midst of starving children and the next I was at a five star restaurant about to feast on gourmet Indian food…quite the contradiction.
And this internal conflict remained with me for the rest of my time. However it became ever so apparent on Tuesday morning. Kate and I took a rickshaw to Missions of Charity, one of the many orphanages that Mother Theresa started. Here many children were rescued from the streets of Chennai or were brought here by their parents or the police. There were unwanted. Some suffer from mental retardation and others from birth defects, some because they are female, an inferior gender in this society.
Upon entering the gate, the first thing that we saw was a large statue of Mother Theresa and the Prayer of St. Francis of Assisi:
LORD, MAKE ME AN INSTRUMENT OF PEACE.
WHERE THERE IS HATRED, LET ME SOW LOVE
WHERE THERE IS INJURY, LET ME SOW PARDON
WHERE THERE IS FRICTION, LET ME SOW UNION
WHERE THERE IS ERROR, LET ME SOW TRUTH
WHERE THERE IS DOUBT, LET ME SOW FAITH
WHERE THERE IS DESPARI, LET ME SOW HOPE
WHERE THERE IS DARKNESS, LET ME SOW LIGHT
WHERE THERE IS SADNESS, LET ME SOW JOY
O DIVIVE MASTER,
GRANT THAT I MAY NOT SO MUCH SEEK
TO BE CONSOLED AS TO CONSOLE,
TO BE UNDERSTOOD, AS TO UNDERSTAND,
TO BE LOVE, AS TO LOVE
FOR IT IS IN GIVING THAT WE RECEIVE
FOR IT IS IN PARDONING THAT WE ARE PARDONED.
IT IS IN DYING THAT WE ARE BORN TO ETERNAL LIFE.
AMEN.
With that as an introduction, I can tell you that I was not prepared for what I was about to experience. We were greeted by Sister Wilfred who smiled when she saw us. We simply asked if we would be able to visit and help her in any way. She happily agreed and after we removed our sandals we were brought to the main house. As we climbed the stairs she stopped and turned to face us. With a somber look on her face she said, “I thank our Lord that you are here to help us. But I must tell you that many of the children are not well. Many are sick physically and mentally. Many are polio-stricken. Some can not walk or even lift their heads. Do not expect them to play with you or talk to you. Just talk to them and show them that you are there. All they want is love.” And with that we followed her into house.
Now I wish I were able to eloquently and accurately describe what happened next. I will try my very best to replicate the sights, sounds, and sensations of the hours I spent with these children. But I know that there are no words to truthfully describe what I experienced. One day I hope everyone will encounter something such as this which transforms you, transforms your soul.
Sister Wilfred brought us into the main room where older children were coloring and drawing at a table. Many were in wheelchairs and other apparatuses that held their bodies in an upright position. To the right was the nursery filled with tiny infants, or what appeared to be new born babies. I later found out that some were several months old but did not grow at normal rates. Then to the left was another room. I did not see any children in there but I could hear noise. As I neared the entrance I began to smell urine. Was it the bathroom I wondered or just another room? The door was cut in half, masking the lower portion of the entrance. I still could not see the source of the soft muffling and groaning. Then I did…five children were lying on a thin cushion. Their bodies bent in ways that I have never thought possible. Surely they must be in pain. But then again, they were probably born that way. Looking over the door, I could not move closer. I was frozen. My heart shattered and tears began to form. But they did not fall. As I stood there unable to move I asked myself why I wasn’t on the mat next to them comforting them, talking to them, showing them love like Sister Wilfred instructed. Still to this moment I do not know why I was not able to move at first but as difficult as it was I knew that I must. Lifting my leg over the bottom portion of the door, I recall moving slowly, looking for a place to sit. Others had joined me now and began talking to the children. One little boy had fallen off the mat so I approached him. His eyes consistently rolled back into his head and his arms and legs twisted and lurched. Not wanting him to be on the cold cement floor I picked up his body to move him to the mat. I had found the source of the urine. Unable to even keep his head up I expected this happens a lot. He could not have been more than 50 pounds, with his bones highly visible. Sister Wilfred told us that many of these children are actually older than they seem but their sickness hinders their growth. The room was quiet again with only a few soft noises coming from the children. I was now sitting next to the boy. His eyes still rolling and twitching. He was so helpless. And yet at the same time, he was beautiful. Quietly, I began talking to him. I don’t even remember what I said but the sound of my voice was soft and consistent. I lifted my hand to caress his back and noticed it was shaking horribly. Though I could not stop it I began to gently lay my fingers on his small back, letting him feel my touch. The shaking began to slow and talking to him became easier. Others in the room began talking as well and I think we all became comfortable with the children. After 20 minutes or so I heard a noise from the boy…different than any that I had heard before. When I looked at his face to see if he showed any signs of distress, I noticed his mouth moving. Slowly a smile formed on his face…and he began laughing! How incredible, moving, and ultimately life-changing that was for me! This little boy who can not walk or talk was smiling. Smiling because of a small touch. Like Sister Wilfred said, all these children need and want is love. And in a few moments of my time I was able to do just that. Now I can truly say I understand what St. Francis of Assisi meant in his prayer when he said, “For it is in giving that we receive.”
Walking away from that little boy was hard but I was comforted by Sister Wilfred when she said that it is these children, those that no one wants that God loves the most. The whole premise behind what Mother Theresa stood for was to love and give to those who had nothing. She herself did not have much. All she had was love. And she did more with that than any amount of money could do. More can be done with love than anything else. I think of that little boy…millions of dollars could not have made that boy smile. But a small, loving touch could. And it did.
A total of 85 children lived at this orphanage. Like I mentioned, many were very sick and could not even move. A small baby did not have her right arm or leg and all she could do was roll around on the floor. Others just sat and stared. But that does not take away from each one’s beauty. It wasn’t until after I spent time with them that I began to see this…it is almost as if I began to see these children how Mother Theresa would have seen them.
At noon we were asked to leave since visiting hours were closed. After saying goodbye to the children and other sisters we gave a donation to Sister Wilfred and thanked her for her time and the difference her life has made for those children. And the difference she made in our lives. It takes a special person to do what she does every day and I hope I will be able to make a difference like that as well.
Needless to say, my time in India will forever be defined by that extraordinary experience. If those few hours were all that I was allowed to have in India, I would have been grateful. Fortunately, I was blessed with much more!
Since it was Tuesday, Kate, Sashia, and I met up with Divya, our new Indian friend. She took us to all her favorite places in Chennai. Her favorite things to do are shop and see movies. We got to see her family again at one of their stores and she helped us get gifts for our families and friends. She is an amazing and outgoing person. We both agreed that we felt like we had known each other for years! She hopes to come to the States to visit, especially New York. We spent all day laughing and getting to know each another. It is amazing how similar we all are! We didn’t return to the ship until late but were exhausted from the day’s goodness.
Wednesday offered another insight into Indian life; however it was different than what I had already seen. The day consisted of a tour of a rural farm village where I was able to interact with locals. We saw how they lived and though it was very simple and humble, provided them with all that they needed to live a happy life. We were able to go to a rice paddy and help the farmers harvest the rice. Then we went to a peanut field and picked peanuts from the ground! It is actually harder than I thought. Who knew there was an art to peanut-picking! After that we rode bullock carts, large wooden carts pulled by two large cows, to a coconut fart. Here we watched a man climb 30 foot palm trees to cut down coconuts for us to enjoy. Another art form that is harder than it looks! Following the coconut refreshments we went to Dakshina Chitra Heritage Village. Here we were able to see what life was like for Indians in the early 1800s. Traditional craftsmen and folk artists were on sight to demonstrate how they made silk, pottery, etc. One man was a glass blower and made beautiful arts and crafts from only fire and glass. The tour lasted all day and by the time we returned to the ship the sun and heat had gotten the best of me. And the funny thing is that it isn’t summer yet! And I thought I liked the heat!
Our final day in Chennai, Thursday, presented yet another adventure. Lindsay and I began the day early with errands and shopping to be accomplished. Now even though I have yet to mention the art of rickshaw bargaining, I feel it is relevant and well, just interesting to understand. So when people from the ship leave the gates of the ship entrance, they are instantly bombarded by rickshaw drivers trying to get them to come with them. They will shout and pull and demand that you come with them. At first this was a little frightening. But after much practice it becomes easier to do. So Lindsay and I began bargaining with a few drivers and finally got a price which we agreed upon. We told our driver that we had three stops: the shopping market, Post Office, and an Internet cafe. In the driver’s defense we did get to all of our locations…however in reverse order. No problem. However, let me just say that riding in one of these things makes shark diving, bungee jumping, and sky diving look like a relaxing walk in the park. It was literally a brush with death every time we got into one of them. But it was awesome! OK, it was a little nerve-racking at first…but what could we do? By the end of the first ride we were all laughing hysterically thinking “if only our parents could see what we were doing now!” Thankfully, we survived each and every encounter with the rickshaw. Oh, and I can’t forget to mention that when you say that you want to go shopping at a particular place, say Spencer’s Plaza, they first say that it is closed. Then they will take you to another “good” shop. It wasn’t too long that we found out that indeed Spencer’s was not closed and the driver gets a commission each time he brings people to the “good” shops. So after Lindsay and I went to the Internet café we were brought to a “good” shop…then to Spencer’s. We realized too that we couldn’t get mad. It was all a part of the adventure! After a few hours shopping we headed back to the ship to meet up with other friends to go out for one last Indian meal. Unfortunately, even though we tried really hard to find a place to eat where someone from the ship hadn’t gotten sick from, we ended up back at Spencer’s and well let me just say…we ate at Pizza Hut. I know, I know. Our last meal in India and we go there…well at least we didn’t get sick!
While waiting for the ship to set sail again, we all chatted about our time in India. It stirred every emotion and awaked those that many had become dormant. There were adventures and trials, smiles and tear. But that is why India was so unique…
Looking back to less than a week ago I remember being so excited as well as anxious about visiting India. The closer the ship sailed to Chennai the more restless I became thinking and wondering about the experiences that were to be before me. Now my time in India has come to a close and all the things that I saw and did are imprinted as memories and pictures. What is more is that I came to a realization that our world, which can seem big at times, is very small. People from India are just like the people in South Africa. Or Brazil. Or Puerto Rico. And yes, like the folks in Lake Shore. Of course, we all live different lives with various religions, cultures, and traditions. But we are all the same; from an Indian rickshaw driver, to an HIV positive child in South Africa, to the mailman in Nisswa, each and every one of these beings is living within the same world. And it is because of a place called India that I know now more than ever…all we need is love.
The Explorer docked in Chennai on Sunday, March 25th at precisely 0800. The Captain had again displayed his likeness for punctuality. Officials from India and US Customs boarded the ship while everyone on board ate breakfast and eagerly waited to begin their Indian adventures. My first adventure in India included an orientation to the city of Chennai with other SAS students and faculty. When the ship was cleared by Customs we were welcomed by Indian musicians and dancers on the dock and the heat and humidity of the Indian air. With a temperature over 90 degrees and a humidity resembling that of a steam room, I knew this was going to be a very unique experience. Oh, and I can not forget to mention the distinct, and utterly indescribable odor that India exposes its visitors to. But again every element contributed to its uniqueness.
Chennai is the fourth-largest city in India and is the capital of the southern state of Tamilnadu. Tamil is the official language of this state; however the country has 21 official languages. We were taken through the city center on Mount Road. Our large tour bus looked very out of place next to the small auto rickshaws, three wheeled autos no bigger than a go kart, and the countless number of motorcycles and scooters. I would like to mention that I will never complain about traffic again, or at least I will try very hard not to! The drive through the residential areas provided a striking contrast between rich and poor, the haves and have-nots. On one side of the street were palm and thatch covered shacks and on the other beautifully manicured homes and flats (apartments). The depiction of India as a country of contrasts became ever so apparent. We were lucky to be able to visit a home of one an Indian family. We were told that this particular family was very successful in the silk and textile industry owning many shops around the city. Needless to say they were from the “right” side of the street. We were welcomed with open arms and given food and drink right when we stepped into the home. They were very excited to share their home and lives with us. Question after question were exchanged and our dialogue flowed easily. The daughter of the family had just graduated from University and was very enthusiastic to talk with other students. Her name was Divya, and is now teaching English at an elementary school. After our delightful and engaging conversation she offered to show us the “real” Chennai. So we set a time and exchanged numbers to meet on Tuesday for her to show us around. How exciting! We said our goodbyes and thanked the family for their hospitality. The tour then took us to the family’s shop where we were able to look and purchase beautiful and luxurious silks for prices that made us feel like we were stealing! I was also able to try on and eventually buy a traditional and very elegant dress of the Indian women. It is called a saree it comes in every color imaginable and is made of the finest silk that I have ever touched. The one I chose was a rich black with delicate yellow and gold designs. Each piece was intricately hand-stitched making it appear only for a queen.
The influence and heritage of British India was seen in many parts of the city. The Fort St. George, which contains St. Mary’s Church and the Fort Museum were beautiful landmarks displaying rich history. We then passed by Marina Beach, the second longest beach in the world after the beach in Rio de Janeiro in Brazil. Many people could be seen playing the popular sports of cricket and football (soccer). It was interesting to see though that no one was in the water due to the intense currents of the Bay of Bengal even though the temperatures continued to soar throughout the day. A monument constructed of Gandhi was in near the Marina. It was so rewarding to see that after studying about him and the enormous impact he had for this country. Passing the beach, we saw Madras University, or as it is known today as the University of Chennai, which is an elegantly designed structure with rich red bricks and trees outlining its gates. Then our tour led us to the oldest section of Chennai. Here we visited the San Thome Cathedral where the apostle Thomas was buried. It was vibrant white and relatively small compared to some of the cathedrals that I have seen in Europe. But its significance could not be matched. After removing our shoes, we descended down stairs which led to a dark corridor. The light was minimal and we could only see directly in front of us. When we entered the room where St. Thomas’ tomb was I was instantly overcome with a feeling that I was somewhere special. To be in a place where the apostle that physically touched Jesus after He rose from the dead was inconceivable. Goosebumps instantly took over my body and words were unable to be spoken. Pictures lined the walls near the door displaying images of Pope John Paul II visiting the tomb. What an honor to be in this place in this incredible country! From there we were taken to another religious site, a Hindu temple. With an ancient history and remarkable discipline from its believers, I was immediately interested in learning more about Hinduism. Each and every day the Hindi people travel to the temples to worship and perform rituals honoring their many gods. Statues and flowers were everywhere signifying their strong faith and beliefs.
That night was spent at a welcome reception which was hosted by local university students. Set in the courtyard of beautiful hotel, we were offered jasmine flower buds which smelled divine. Indian women in sarees applied kum-kum, the red dot of sandalwood paste on our foreheads and sprinkled us with rose water. Kate and I wore our new sarees along with other SAS students. It was so fun to be immersed in this fascinating culture! With Indian music in the background we talked with the students and shared stories about our lives. Many things were very different and yet many the same. The food was delicious, with spices that I have never tasted before. Now I know why India is referred to as the land of spices! After we were given henna tattoos on our hands and watched a Bharata Natyam dance, both traditional art forms. This dance is the subtle and sophisticated dance-art of Tamilnadu, according to the director. It is very dynamic and precise using a variety of complex body postures and movements. The dress was also something to be noted with gold jewelry dripping from every limb which added to the music of the dance. It was a superb evening, a perfect welcome to India!
The next day, Monday, offered a more intimate depiction of Hinduism. Our first stop was in a city called Kancheepuram, or Golden City. It is one of the seven most sacred places of pilgrimage for Hindus. It once was the home of more than a thousand temples but only a few hundred remain. One temple, the Kailasantha Temple, is over 1200 years old and paintings from the 7th and 8th centuries can still be seen today. Each temple is has layers and layers of sculptures and designs, some up to ten stories. Thousands of Hindus were worshipping and many preparing for an upcoming festival. Our guide told us that every Hindu participates in the preparations and actual celebration. This city is also well-known for its silk weaving and we were able to see it in action. The looms that the silk is woven on are large and appear difficult to maneuver. One of the weavers told us that he works on one saree for over 8 hours a day for 40 days. Each day he weaves only 35 centimeters! Incredible!
The next stop was in Mamallapuram, an ancient port city which is now a popular beach resort area. Here we visited the 1200 year old Shore Temple. It was by far the most stunning temple. Its background consisted of the Bay of Bengal and lush greenery surrounding it on all sides. People bathing in the waters and performing rituals provided another insight to Hinduism. From there we visited the Five Rathas, stone edifices which were sculpted and shaped into temple prototypes. Monkeys and goats were all over the premise, many coming right up to us. At one point we were surrounded by monkeys which looked like they were going to jump on us at any moment! A man with a monkey on a leash performed tricks for us and numerous street vendors tried to sell us handicrafts. It was the little children selling beads that got to me though. Looking into their eyes and seeing their frail, bony bodies was too much. Many of us helped the little ones make a few rupees (Indian currency). Appropriately enough, we then went to eat lunch at a luxurious restaurant not far from Mamallapuram. It was the transition from one extreme to the next that tried me the most. At one moment I was in the midst of starving children and the next I was at a five star restaurant about to feast on gourmet Indian food…quite the contradiction.
And this internal conflict remained with me for the rest of my time. However it became ever so apparent on Tuesday morning. Kate and I took a rickshaw to Missions of Charity, one of the many orphanages that Mother Theresa started. Here many children were rescued from the streets of Chennai or were brought here by their parents or the police. There were unwanted. Some suffer from mental retardation and others from birth defects, some because they are female, an inferior gender in this society.
Upon entering the gate, the first thing that we saw was a large statue of Mother Theresa and the Prayer of St. Francis of Assisi:
LORD, MAKE ME AN INSTRUMENT OF PEACE.
WHERE THERE IS HATRED, LET ME SOW LOVE
WHERE THERE IS INJURY, LET ME SOW PARDON
WHERE THERE IS FRICTION, LET ME SOW UNION
WHERE THERE IS ERROR, LET ME SOW TRUTH
WHERE THERE IS DOUBT, LET ME SOW FAITH
WHERE THERE IS DESPARI, LET ME SOW HOPE
WHERE THERE IS DARKNESS, LET ME SOW LIGHT
WHERE THERE IS SADNESS, LET ME SOW JOY
O DIVIVE MASTER,
GRANT THAT I MAY NOT SO MUCH SEEK
TO BE CONSOLED AS TO CONSOLE,
TO BE UNDERSTOOD, AS TO UNDERSTAND,
TO BE LOVE, AS TO LOVE
FOR IT IS IN GIVING THAT WE RECEIVE
FOR IT IS IN PARDONING THAT WE ARE PARDONED.
IT IS IN DYING THAT WE ARE BORN TO ETERNAL LIFE.
AMEN.
With that as an introduction, I can tell you that I was not prepared for what I was about to experience. We were greeted by Sister Wilfred who smiled when she saw us. We simply asked if we would be able to visit and help her in any way. She happily agreed and after we removed our sandals we were brought to the main house. As we climbed the stairs she stopped and turned to face us. With a somber look on her face she said, “I thank our Lord that you are here to help us. But I must tell you that many of the children are not well. Many are sick physically and mentally. Many are polio-stricken. Some can not walk or even lift their heads. Do not expect them to play with you or talk to you. Just talk to them and show them that you are there. All they want is love.” And with that we followed her into house.
Now I wish I were able to eloquently and accurately describe what happened next. I will try my very best to replicate the sights, sounds, and sensations of the hours I spent with these children. But I know that there are no words to truthfully describe what I experienced. One day I hope everyone will encounter something such as this which transforms you, transforms your soul.
Sister Wilfred brought us into the main room where older children were coloring and drawing at a table. Many were in wheelchairs and other apparatuses that held their bodies in an upright position. To the right was the nursery filled with tiny infants, or what appeared to be new born babies. I later found out that some were several months old but did not grow at normal rates. Then to the left was another room. I did not see any children in there but I could hear noise. As I neared the entrance I began to smell urine. Was it the bathroom I wondered or just another room? The door was cut in half, masking the lower portion of the entrance. I still could not see the source of the soft muffling and groaning. Then I did…five children were lying on a thin cushion. Their bodies bent in ways that I have never thought possible. Surely they must be in pain. But then again, they were probably born that way. Looking over the door, I could not move closer. I was frozen. My heart shattered and tears began to form. But they did not fall. As I stood there unable to move I asked myself why I wasn’t on the mat next to them comforting them, talking to them, showing them love like Sister Wilfred instructed. Still to this moment I do not know why I was not able to move at first but as difficult as it was I knew that I must. Lifting my leg over the bottom portion of the door, I recall moving slowly, looking for a place to sit. Others had joined me now and began talking to the children. One little boy had fallen off the mat so I approached him. His eyes consistently rolled back into his head and his arms and legs twisted and lurched. Not wanting him to be on the cold cement floor I picked up his body to move him to the mat. I had found the source of the urine. Unable to even keep his head up I expected this happens a lot. He could not have been more than 50 pounds, with his bones highly visible. Sister Wilfred told us that many of these children are actually older than they seem but their sickness hinders their growth. The room was quiet again with only a few soft noises coming from the children. I was now sitting next to the boy. His eyes still rolling and twitching. He was so helpless. And yet at the same time, he was beautiful. Quietly, I began talking to him. I don’t even remember what I said but the sound of my voice was soft and consistent. I lifted my hand to caress his back and noticed it was shaking horribly. Though I could not stop it I began to gently lay my fingers on his small back, letting him feel my touch. The shaking began to slow and talking to him became easier. Others in the room began talking as well and I think we all became comfortable with the children. After 20 minutes or so I heard a noise from the boy…different than any that I had heard before. When I looked at his face to see if he showed any signs of distress, I noticed his mouth moving. Slowly a smile formed on his face…and he began laughing! How incredible, moving, and ultimately life-changing that was for me! This little boy who can not walk or talk was smiling. Smiling because of a small touch. Like Sister Wilfred said, all these children need and want is love. And in a few moments of my time I was able to do just that. Now I can truly say I understand what St. Francis of Assisi meant in his prayer when he said, “For it is in giving that we receive.”
Walking away from that little boy was hard but I was comforted by Sister Wilfred when she said that it is these children, those that no one wants that God loves the most. The whole premise behind what Mother Theresa stood for was to love and give to those who had nothing. She herself did not have much. All she had was love. And she did more with that than any amount of money could do. More can be done with love than anything else. I think of that little boy…millions of dollars could not have made that boy smile. But a small, loving touch could. And it did.
A total of 85 children lived at this orphanage. Like I mentioned, many were very sick and could not even move. A small baby did not have her right arm or leg and all she could do was roll around on the floor. Others just sat and stared. But that does not take away from each one’s beauty. It wasn’t until after I spent time with them that I began to see this…it is almost as if I began to see these children how Mother Theresa would have seen them.
At noon we were asked to leave since visiting hours were closed. After saying goodbye to the children and other sisters we gave a donation to Sister Wilfred and thanked her for her time and the difference her life has made for those children. And the difference she made in our lives. It takes a special person to do what she does every day and I hope I will be able to make a difference like that as well.
Needless to say, my time in India will forever be defined by that extraordinary experience. If those few hours were all that I was allowed to have in India, I would have been grateful. Fortunately, I was blessed with much more!
Since it was Tuesday, Kate, Sashia, and I met up with Divya, our new Indian friend. She took us to all her favorite places in Chennai. Her favorite things to do are shop and see movies. We got to see her family again at one of their stores and she helped us get gifts for our families and friends. She is an amazing and outgoing person. We both agreed that we felt like we had known each other for years! She hopes to come to the States to visit, especially New York. We spent all day laughing and getting to know each another. It is amazing how similar we all are! We didn’t return to the ship until late but were exhausted from the day’s goodness.
Wednesday offered another insight into Indian life; however it was different than what I had already seen. The day consisted of a tour of a rural farm village where I was able to interact with locals. We saw how they lived and though it was very simple and humble, provided them with all that they needed to live a happy life. We were able to go to a rice paddy and help the farmers harvest the rice. Then we went to a peanut field and picked peanuts from the ground! It is actually harder than I thought. Who knew there was an art to peanut-picking! After that we rode bullock carts, large wooden carts pulled by two large cows, to a coconut fart. Here we watched a man climb 30 foot palm trees to cut down coconuts for us to enjoy. Another art form that is harder than it looks! Following the coconut refreshments we went to Dakshina Chitra Heritage Village. Here we were able to see what life was like for Indians in the early 1800s. Traditional craftsmen and folk artists were on sight to demonstrate how they made silk, pottery, etc. One man was a glass blower and made beautiful arts and crafts from only fire and glass. The tour lasted all day and by the time we returned to the ship the sun and heat had gotten the best of me. And the funny thing is that it isn’t summer yet! And I thought I liked the heat!
Our final day in Chennai, Thursday, presented yet another adventure. Lindsay and I began the day early with errands and shopping to be accomplished. Now even though I have yet to mention the art of rickshaw bargaining, I feel it is relevant and well, just interesting to understand. So when people from the ship leave the gates of the ship entrance, they are instantly bombarded by rickshaw drivers trying to get them to come with them. They will shout and pull and demand that you come with them. At first this was a little frightening. But after much practice it becomes easier to do. So Lindsay and I began bargaining with a few drivers and finally got a price which we agreed upon. We told our driver that we had three stops: the shopping market, Post Office, and an Internet cafe. In the driver’s defense we did get to all of our locations…however in reverse order. No problem. However, let me just say that riding in one of these things makes shark diving, bungee jumping, and sky diving look like a relaxing walk in the park. It was literally a brush with death every time we got into one of them. But it was awesome! OK, it was a little nerve-racking at first…but what could we do? By the end of the first ride we were all laughing hysterically thinking “if only our parents could see what we were doing now!” Thankfully, we survived each and every encounter with the rickshaw. Oh, and I can’t forget to mention that when you say that you want to go shopping at a particular place, say Spencer’s Plaza, they first say that it is closed. Then they will take you to another “good” shop. It wasn’t too long that we found out that indeed Spencer’s was not closed and the driver gets a commission each time he brings people to the “good” shops. So after Lindsay and I went to the Internet café we were brought to a “good” shop…then to Spencer’s. We realized too that we couldn’t get mad. It was all a part of the adventure! After a few hours shopping we headed back to the ship to meet up with other friends to go out for one last Indian meal. Unfortunately, even though we tried really hard to find a place to eat where someone from the ship hadn’t gotten sick from, we ended up back at Spencer’s and well let me just say…we ate at Pizza Hut. I know, I know. Our last meal in India and we go there…well at least we didn’t get sick!
While waiting for the ship to set sail again, we all chatted about our time in India. It stirred every emotion and awaked those that many had become dormant. There were adventures and trials, smiles and tear. But that is why India was so unique…
Looking back to less than a week ago I remember being so excited as well as anxious about visiting India. The closer the ship sailed to Chennai the more restless I became thinking and wondering about the experiences that were to be before me. Now my time in India has come to a close and all the things that I saw and did are imprinted as memories and pictures. What is more is that I came to a realization that our world, which can seem big at times, is very small. People from India are just like the people in South Africa. Or Brazil. Or Puerto Rico. And yes, like the folks in Lake Shore. Of course, we all live different lives with various religions, cultures, and traditions. But we are all the same; from an Indian rickshaw driver, to an HIV positive child in South Africa, to the mailman in Nisswa, each and every one of these beings is living within the same world. And it is because of a place called India that I know now more than ever…all we need is love.
Friday, March 23, 2007
Before India...
What is conflict? What is peace? These were the two questions from this morning’s Global Studies class. To tell you the truth, I am not sure I fully comprehend what these two concepts truly are. As I prepare to set foot in India in a matter of days I can’t help but feel inadequately prepared for what I am about to see, hear, feel, and learn. Don’t get me wrong, I have anticipated this country and this experience since I learned about Semester at Sea. But as the Explorer nears India’s shores, I know I am in for something like I have never experienced. I have only one expectation…to expect nothing so that I will be open to everything. I know I am ignorant to what really occurs in our world. The thoughts of all the violence, inequality, scandals, etc are overwhelming. Though, I feel that by coming face to face with these realities I will be better equipped to help others and promote change. There is a concept that I learned from Archbishop Desmond Tutu called ‘Ubunto’ which states that what ever is done to one human being is done to me. All the despair, hunger, disease, violence, rape, war, and injustice are done to me. To you. To everyone. While we may not personally and physically undergo these disturbing things, we do experience them metaphorically. And now more than ever am I beginning to understand this. Yes, I have issues. I get stressed out about school, jobs, etc. But I don’t have to worry about my next meal or if I will be abducted or if I will be beaten. So do I ignore the fact that my brothers and sisters are being treated like this? Do I withdraw and become numb? No. Life is about living…each moment, good or bad, for better or worse. This is me and my thoughts now and how I am trying to prepare myself. I wanted to document these feelings that have been stirring inside of me for the past week. In another week’s time I do not know if I will feel these things or if I will be feeling something completely different. All I do know is that, ready or not, India is only a few hundred miles away…
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