INDIA

My recent trip to India opened my eyes, my heart, and my mind. My two months spent in this beautiful country exposed me to things I always knew existed but never had to face on a daily basis. I have matured more in these past two months than ever before. By being exposed to the actual "real world" my eyes were finally opened to see how fortunate and blessed my life is. My experience in India cannot be documented without mentioning the unremarkable beauty in it's people, it's rich and enduring culture,  and the some of the most incredible stories in history. There is something about the smiles you receive for the people in India that make you feel warm and grateful in parts of your heart that you never knew existed. From living in the tropics of Kerala, to a week long visit in Gujarat, to my brief three day stay in Arga, and a day trip in Delhi, I feel I have truly gained the Indian experience. Kerala enriched me spiritually with the presence of God felt as soon as I stepped off the plane. The agricultural city of Rajkot exposed me to the expressions of Gujarati culture through song and dance. The city of Arga shared with me the 7th wonder of the world, The Taj Mahal, in it's infinite glory as well as the remarkable arts of the people of Arga. New Delhi transported me back to Old Delhi where I was able to take a step back in time and witness grandiose lifestyles of the Raj at The Imperial. In India you will find polar extremes but somewhere mixed within it all, you will find an unwavering sense of pride in their country, extreme conviction in religion, and an extremely strong sense of tradition. I feel in love with India the moment I stepped foot on it's soil. India will always have a special place in my heart because it has changed me in a way in which I will never be the same as before.