Marie Wilson:
Wednesday May 11
After a day of recovering from eating too much curry (I’m sure you can all use your imagination) I was eager to get back to volunteering at Kalighat. A highlight from today was having one of the women in the home finally recognize me. Everyday during volunteering she sits me down, holds my hands, and will talk to me non-stop in Hindi for at least 15 minutes. All I can do is look into her eyes and show her I am listening…even if I have no idea what she is saying. If there is one thing thus far I can take away from these past few days, it is PERSPECTIVE. Being with these women and assisting them in what may be the final days of their lives is both incredibly difficult and utterly humbling. These women have struggled through so much and are at this house because they have no one else to turn to. It reminds me how miniscule my ‘problems’ and ‘worries’ truly are. How much do things like social media, body image, and getting angry really matter in this world? Love and compassion for others and yourself are what makes your days full of life, not how many likes on Instagram you may get. Overall I am forever mesmerized by the diverse and rich culture that surrounds us. On another note, it is taking all of my will power to not pet and cuddle every stray cat, dog, cow, and goat I come across (don’t worry mom and dad, I promise I haven’t pet a single one!).
P.S. Mom, Dad, Victoria, Carter, Kenny, Grandma, Grandpa…and all family and friends who may be reading this: I love you all so much and can’t wait to see you!