|
|
|
|
India is one country that will affect you one way or the other. Many people have the most difficult time adjusting or realizing that such a country exists. It's known for it's poverty and rapid population growth, sadly to say that it is true. As I was walking through the streets with Galen looking everywhere for a phone to call his girlfriend, I find myself soaking in the culture, the language and the land. Some with shoes, some without, kids bathing, mothers washing clothes, and cows/oxes were all over the streets and alleys of Madras. No matter where you went, it seemed to be that way. In an area where the ship was docked, poverty was even more intense. There would be a huge neighborhood of shacks line up with families of five living in what we would call a box. Jesus and I went to buy bananas to pass out to the people on one side of the street and then we ran out and there were still more who wanted bananas. I then understood India's problem. Too many people and not enough resources. I do fear for India's fast growing population and it's economic problem. Although, it is much better than before it still worries me to think that by the year 2030, it will be the world's most populated country, and China as second. India has potential and its technology is what I think would help its country out. I hope so!
Descriptions of the Pictures Above
Anyhow...on to a lighter note...I was fortunate to have been invited to two of Madras' nicest people's house, Skanda's and Gayathri's house. I went to Gaya's house for dinner and for snacks along with many others. I met her family and had the best time there. Thank you for the wonderful food, Gaya! Please tell your parents that. Gaya als brought Sara and I shopping to buy sarees. On another day I had the opportunity to spend the time with Skanda and other friends from the ship, Dan S, Jesus, Claudia, and Amina. He brought us to India's finest restaurant, which we each paid 2 dollars each to eat. Oh...it was great food. I really like that restaurant. We went there again for another dinner. We also had lunch at Skanda's house and we met his family. Oh..I had the best time there helping his mom cook bread and hearing his grandma sing beautifully. I had the best time!!! Thank you so much Skanda!
I learned a lot from India and have become a better person from it. I hope you enjoyed reading about it! I'll see you in Cairo, Egypt