As
we gather for our last meal in Chennai before boarding the plane back home, I
am moved by how much has transpired in these three short weeks.
As
instructors for this course, we were handed a list of students with
demographics, year of study and major; most being new acquaintances for each
other. For three weeks we ate, slept and moved from one point to another as a
tribe.
We
are now family. We have learned about healthcare in India, about the challenges
of a BRIC country, and how micro initiatives are working to improve the
livelihood of their citizens through the education and promotion of
entrepreneurship. Be it preventing needless blindness, educating and employing
young girls from the rural villages or developing business through training and
support, our understanding of global issues has been broaden. We have been
inspired to be doers. We have seen how people can make do with so very little and
still be happy and warm and gracious. We have learned from a blind pilot that a
setback may indeed prove to be a seed of inspiration; that it possible to do
great things if you have the passion to pursue it.
As
Ma and Pa Walker, our parting message to our bright, enthusiastic, and
delightful tribe: Each and every one of you possesses unique talents that make
you special. We were blessed to have such a phenomenal group and look forward
to see how you shape your world as you move on.
May
you keep with you the sign of the elephant: removal of obstacles; and go after
your goals with passion, spirit and compassion for your fellow man.
It
was an honor and a privilege to take on our India Winterim adventure with all
of you.
Our
very best to you always-
Kristy
and Bob
