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June 17, 2019 - 2019: Asha Ki Chamak
On Sunday Morning we had incredible opportunity of attending a Hindu temple for a morning service. It was a combination of deafening bells, burning incense, and Hindi singing that I did not understand. But it was a surreal experience nonetheless. We were able to take their sacrament and observe their service. I love learning about, and taking part in different cultures and religions. In our society today, we tend to make harsh judgments about people and things that seem alien to us. I believe that in order to make real connections with people and places, we must be accepting and understanding of other’s and their traditions no matter how “weird” they may seem. This trip has taught me this truth more than anything ever could have. India could not be more opposite in some ways, but also could not be more the same in others. Despite the language barrier, and different way of living, I find it incredible that people can still connect in such a meaningful way.
Saturday was one of the best days yet. Not because the kids were particularly engaged or easy, but because I had an eye-opening realization. This trip, in general, has truly given me such a different perspective. I have never been so connected with so many people so quickly, and never been more disconnected from the rest of the world. On Saturday, I was assisting with one of the lessons being taught to the youngest class, which is made up of mostly five-year olds. As I was sitting there, I noticed Ashmita. She is normally the most insane child and is almost always eating something she shouldn’t. I realized, however, that her big brown eyes were fluttering shut. I sat cross-legged next to her and allowed her head to rest on my leg. By the end of the lesson she, the most rambunctious child in the school, was limp in my arms. Lately, my life has been a whirlwind of change and stresses. But, as Ashmita lay in my arms, for a second those things did not matter. My worries about my future were nonexistent and nonimportant. At that moment, the only thing I had to think about was Ashmita sleeping in my arms. As I held her in the empty classroom. The only movement was her gentle, and deep breathing. This is a moment that I will never forget. I think that so often we are focused on the unimportant things. We are focused significantly on the big picture and not so much the tiny, but significant, moments. This trip, so far, has given me the eyes to better be able to recognize those moments. I understand that no matter how trying life may become, the little moments are hidden in unexpected ways. Although the big picture may be seemingly falling apart, we need to savor the little moments that are always there.
There is officially a week left of this expedition. As much as I want to stay with these kids forever, I miss my family so much. Hi family! I cannot wait to hug you and share all of my incredible experiences with you. Leaving is going to be one of the hardest things I have ever done. This experience, as a whole, with forever be burned in my memory. I may forget the sights that I have seen, and sounds that I have heard, but I will never forget the feelings that I have felt.
Oh Ada! I’m crying happy tears for you!! So much learning and changing and growing taking place in that beautiful country with those beautiful people. I love the way you see the world…you notice the little things and make them a part of who you are. I see your eye for goodness and beauty and truth…and you seek to find those in everyone and everything, everywhere you go. Can’t wait to sit with you and hear more about what you’ve seen and learned. Love you big, Ada Law!
OK, first of all Ada, where is your face??? Both of your posts are missing pictures of your beautiful face! I’m glad you included the picture of a cow’s face. It’s very cute, but really… Someone please post a picture of my sweet Ada’s face. I miss it so much.
Despite the absence of your face, I love your post. Ashmita is adoooorable (I know that because I can see her face). I’m not surprised at all that she felt comfortable falling asleep on you. You have a magical way with children. Speaking of which, there are three pretty adorable little children here who might be a little jealous of Ashmita. 🙂 We are all counting down the days until we get to snuggle you.
Thanks for the beautiful reminder to enjoy the small things. There are hundreds every day that we are too busy to notice. I needed that reminder to slow down and be present. I know how fast 17 years go by and my first baby girl is suddenly all grown up and on the other side of the world being all inspiring and changing the world and stuff!
I have loved every one of these blog posts. You guys are doing a great job keeping us informed. And inspired. And entertained. And making us cry. Every day. Multiple times. Is that one of the requirements??? We all knew you would learn a ton from this experience, but it’s amazing to see it actually happening. And we’re getting just a glimpse! It fills me with hope to know that you 21 amazing young people have this fire lit inside of you and will each go on to do your part to change the world.
You are quite literally Youth Making a Difference and I know you will continue to make a difference long after this expedition is over. I am so proud of all of you!
Asha Ki Chamak.
I love you Ada Potada!
Darling Ada!
I also miss that gorgeous face, your teasing smile and your all knowing eyes! This journey has been so scary, exciting and wonderful – for me anyway. I agree with your mother, you have always had a way with children, they are drawn to you and your quiet strength. It’s a good reminder that we are all Heavenly Fathers children and he loves every dang one of us! Ashmita looks so peaceful in her sleep, what happened when she woke up? You’re such a hard worker and I hope your feet don’t swell up on the trip home! Very proud of you and your choices my dear.
Love GMA