Dear India – Katie Llewellyn

June 19, 2019 - 2019: Asha Ki Chamak

One week. I’ve only been in this beautiful country for one week and it’s hard to think that goodbye is tomorrow.  The days have come and gone, each one better than the last. A constant roller coaster of emotions. Coming home doesn’t feel quite right knowing that such a big piece of me will stay here. India holds so many experiences I will forever hold close; the laughs, the tears, the frustrations, the anticipations and so much love. This has easily been one of the most difficult things I have ever done, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything. I wish I could relive these days over and over again. 

 

Today was bittersweet, it was my last day teaching at Tharku. I’m going to miss the bumpy bus rides up the mountain on roads too close to the edge. I’m going to miss getting so dirty from playing ‘duck, duck, goose’ and the bucket laundry that immediately followed. I’m going to miss eating nan bread and rice for every meal. I am going to miss waking up too early to take a freezing cold shower each morning. I am going to miss the constant frizzy hair and dirty feet. I am going to miss everything that I have grown to love. 

 

 Today has given me some of my most precious memories, I’ll share just one; Shriya took my by the hand and I kneeled down to her level, she gave me the biggest hug and I couldn’t help but tear up. I pulled away and looked her in the eyes, I asked her to please never forget me, she responded with a quiet never. She placed her tiny hands on my cheeks and wiped away my tears, while she said “Didi no cry” (Sister don’t cry). I will always remember that special moment and hold it so close. 

 

I will always love you India, even when we are a world apart. 

P.s. Mom- please make me a steak dinner when I come home on Sunday. 🙂 Love you!

3 Responses to “Dear India – Katie Llewellyn”

  1. Katie (and all your YMAD pals),
    You have all literally served as the Masters hands as you’ve gone about doing good and showing love for your fellow brothers & sisters in India. You have all given love and friendship to your new YMAD family as well. These are moments, friendships and emotions you will remember for a lifetime. I am so happy that you have each sought to be a part of such a remarkable, soul changing experience. All along you were each preparing to help educate, assist and bring about small change for the children of India, But a remarkable thing happened along the way when the people of India ended up being the changing force for each of you by living simply and allowing you to serve and love them. What a beautiful journey to read about each day as you all have blogged and photographed this amazing experience. Thank you for letting us come along for the ride, I have loved it.
    And leaders, thank you for caring, loving and looking after our kids as you all change the world for the better, together.

    P.S. I know you Katie, I was already planning on steak 😉

    💕 Love, Mom (((Hugs)))

  2. HI KATIE!! I love you so much, and I’m so excited to be with the knowledge that you’ll be home within a week! I’m so excited and I can’t wait to show you the "cat" thing I’ve been working on! Also, you won’t find it hard to locate us when we are at the airport to pick you up, I’ll have the most obnoxious sign made to ensure your knowledge of our location. 😏 -Love, Matthew

  3. Such an amazing journey Katie. Even though you are returning home soon, I know that this is just the beginning of your greater journey. I am so very happy to know you have gained insight that will help you in your life. I can’t wait to hear all about your stories and see your pictures. Have safe travels and see you soon. Love Dad.

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