Goodbye India, hello Colchester

After a two hour (actually more like 3) bus drive from Vellore to Chennai, a 10 hour flight to London, and a two hour drive to Colchester, our team is back safe and sound. We have a few days off from work to recuperate from jet lag, so in the mean time I'm taking time to rest and process the last 10 days and all that I experienced in India.

It might take a few days and blog entries to do this so hang tight... First, here are some initial thoughts of things I loved, learned, missed, and found fascinating about India.

The FOOD:

1. Chai and COFFEE are served all the time. It is a very hospitable way that hosts show how much they welcome and appreciate their guests. What I'm about to say next may be a bold statement but I stand by it: India has the BEST tasting coffee ever!!





2. and that goes for the FRUIT too... custard apples are amazing! I LOVE the bananas and the mangoes are sweet. I like papayas (PAPAYAS!) but we all know nothing can beat the sweet love of God (haha anyone remember this song?)
3. I am in love with CURRY (surprise) like never before... and dosas and naan bread. yumm!




p.s. I have eaten more rice in the last 10 days than I have probably eaten in the last 10 months.


The TRANSPO:

1. I was so impressed by the modes of transportation: motorcycles are everywhere and a very popular transport from point A to point B, also buses, taxis (especially auto rickshaw ones--pictured below), and oxes..



2. Honking is common and not necessarily used for road rage but rather to inform other drivers or pedestrians that your coming and not stopping.
3. Driving in general is a true talent.

The CULTURE

1. India is so vibrant and colorful--the food, buildings, traffic, and of course my favorite-- the sari! The sari's that women wear are so beautiful and really represent such grace and femininity. Fun facts:
2. It is proper to eat only with your right hand. Also, utensils are not normally used.
3. If you finish the food on your plate, more will be offered or perhaps given.
4. Shaking of the head from side to side when you are talking with someone, does not mean no.. it more so means "I'm listening" or "I understand"

(sighhh) now writing out my thoughts, I really do miss India already! Yes, it was hot and humid and yes it does feel wonderful to be back in Colchester and back in chilly weather, but there is something very special about India and something very special about working alongside fellow believers there. One night we went to a Bible study group of young college medical students. The leader had said that even though we are from different countries and different cultures, we all serve the same God... We are all one in the body of Christ.

more India entries to come...