Reflections on India

---

---

Wow, it's been two months to the day since I've returned home from travels, and it almost feels like it was eons ago. I wish I had my field notebook next to me as I write this, but that's safely tucked away at home, alongside other souvenirs, field guides, travel guides, and undoubtedly at least one unpacked parcel.

I'm almost finding it difficult to reflect on my time, especially after stumbling upon my old blogs from when I was in France (and hence the desire to link this entry to past travels). Re-reading those old thoughts gave me a glimpse back into a different person then, one who was clearly astounded by all the world had to offer, one who wasn't afraid to say any and all of whatever thoughts pop in my lil' ol' head. Really wishing I had my field notebook . . .

I came out of India with a few definite decisions: 1) I no longer regret joining AIP instead of GFP, 2) it is essential to continue keeping an open mind, & 3) India deserves a 2^nd chance. Now, to extrapolate:

1) GFP AIP is where it's at. When I began this program, I found out about GFP only after AIP . . . wait, what do you mean you get to travel around the world not once, but three times, all while earning the same degree I am?!? Yes, it probably costs more, but who cares! Fast-forward to the last day in Pune—these students that I have just shared the dampest of times with are some of the most amazing people I've ever met. But they're flung across the States (and in Mohammed's case, the other side of the world). I'm probably never going to see any of them again (hopefully, graduation?), and I've only had a few, painfully short, number of days to get to know them, to see what really drives them, and the secret of their awesomeness. My AIP peeps, on the other hand, I've been seeing their mugs for the last two-and-a-half years, and I appreciate them all the more for it. If I had joined GFP, I would probably not have gotten the chance to build such lasting connections with as many wonderful people.

2) I knew going to India would be a culture shock, and I truly believe spending a week in rural Guatemala a few years back helped ease that transition (still ranks as one of my least-favorite trips ), but there was still a lot for me to learn. Yes, I had studied a bit of Hinduism, and yes, I had asked every single question possible of my vet to gain some insider knowledge, and yes, I pored over and dog-eared Enjoying India: The Essential Guide, but I knew there was still quite a bit I didn't know, couldn't know, and wouldn't understand. Case in point: a sign posted at one of the last stops we made on the journey back to Pune—"Save Earth - Save Water - Use Disposable"—say what?! Add more trash and refuse to an already over-populated landscape? It boggles the Western mind. But then one has to strip away all the preconceived notions (what was it that we were taught in regard to community-based conservation, to not fix the problem that we believe exists, but rather, ask the community if and how they want help?) and realize how precious a resource water is. It was such a jolting sign and made me realize not all conservation actions and beliefs may be shared, nor prioritized, by all.

3) 10 year visa? Yeah, I can do this again. I still don't expect to see a tiger, but I'd like some sort of wildlife. And festivals. More festivals. Especially in the south. But this time, not during the monsoon (truly, not because of the water—but because a good deal of national parks are closed during the rains)!

---