Brooklyn Howell

April 8, 2012 - All Posts, 2012 Operation: Genshai

This place in indescribable! I’m in love with the people, the culture, and the country as a whole. I’ve adjusted to the time difference and the driving. Already, I’m dreading the day we have to leave. The people here live such a simple life. They have next to nothing, yet they are the happiest people I have ever met. They’re so helpful, thoughtful, and welcoming to everyone. They’re also SO beautiful here. Before I die, I will be coming back to India.
I would be perfectly content living here and working in the schools everyday. Each morning, my group takes a drive in the jeeps before we have to get out and hike. It’s breathtaking. (Literally. Haha!) It’s a gorgeous view, but such a steep hike. Just when I think I can’t go any further, I can hear the kids yelling to us, “Good morning! Hello!” When we get to the school, the kids greet us with, “Good morning, madame. Good morning, sir.” They touch our feet and say, “Namaste” to show their respect. They also shout, “Goodbye! See you tomorrow!” until we’ve hiked out of sight.

The lessons are going so well! It’s incredible how smart these kids are. They pick up on things really fast. It makes all of our hard work worth it when we see them finally understand the concepts. They have SO much potential. I hope they realize how great they are. Their headmaster isn’t a very nice guy, so I’m very glad that we can be here to tell them how much they can accomplish.

These are also some of the cutest kids I have ever seen. I’ve decided I’m bringing back a couple in my suitcase. Two of the little girls have become my best friends. They call me “didi” which means big sister. They love holding hands and having their pictures taken with me. When I’m teaching them words in English, they return the favor by teaching me how to say it in Hindi.

Being here makes me so grateful for everything I have. It helps me realize how lucky I am to live in America with all of the opportunities I have. To my family and friends, I miss you guys! Thank you for all of your prayers and well-wishes. I appreciate all you have done to make this trip possible for me. I wish you could be here to experience this with me. Plan on a lot of pictures and stories when I get home. I love you!

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