Back in the USA

Now that I'm officially back on American soil, I can begin to reflect on my Indian adventure.  Living in a different culture for over a month taught me great patience.  But living amongst Indians also taught me to have greater appreciation for the people in my life, including my family, friends, and students.

I am happy to be back in my own home, sleeping in my very fluffy bed and using my washing machine.  I am baking cookies, brownies, and other goodies for my loved ones.  I am enjoying my morning 5 mile runs again, thanks to the clean air here in Virginia.

What was the best part of my journey?  That is too difficult a question for me to answer, because there were so many challenging and enlightening moments throughout the weeks I spent in India.  As I was telling a friend, India is full of surprises.  Just when you think you know what's going on...something crazy happens.  Cows wander in front of cars, monkeys leap from buildings, music blares from a nearby temple, a group of pilgrims march by on their religious quest...India is overwhelming and yet so peaceful at the same time.