NANCYE: The Thorats were merciful to those on our team unaccustomed to spicy food and provided American-style for several days. Prepared by a local man who has cooked for foreigners for forty years, all our food was very good. The Indian food was especially delicious, I thought. We had been prepared by our leader for culture shock in India. Perhaps due to years of reading National Geographic, and most certainly because of the Grace of God, Robert and I felt at home in Nagpur. The culture is certainly different than the United States, but when we do not think ourselves superior to other cultures and people, then different translates into interesting rather than weird. I became so used to the cows in the streets that by the end of the week, I barely noticed them (except for the one that licked my arm). The children are the jewels of India. Their bright friendly smiles greeted us everywhere: on the streets, at the churches, in the schools and in their homes. Although usually more reserved, the adults were most gracious to us. Many of the Hindu people would quietly smile and say, "Hello." They love cameras and we waited for one young mother to dress all her children for a family photograph (below). |
Rhema Mission Trip to India 1998 Where Are The Cowboys? |
Justs before this cow licked Nancye's arm |