Today marks one week since we’ve been in India. I wasn’t sure how time would pass but it’s flown by very quickly. I along with 3 others leave for Delhi and then Agra later this afternoon to see the Taj Mahal. We’ll meet back up with the rest of the group on Monday. But, for me, this means saying goodbye to everyone here on campus; the staff, the teachers, the bishop and his wife, and the children. While it’s going to be hard to leave this magical and transformative place altogether saying goodbye to the children will be the hardest part. In just one week their curiousity, infectious laughter, and playfulness have brought me extreme joy. Everyone who’s been here before has said you’re going to love it and now I know why.
A lot has happened in just one week; we’ve celebrated the 40th anniversary of the diocese, participated in the annual Thanksgiving service with over 3,000 people, sat with ladies as they made prayer shawls for the sick, arts and crafts with the children on campus, attended a service dedicating a library/conference hall for student nurses at the only hospital in a 4 hours radius, visited learning centers and children in Purulia and in Bankura. Seeing the people, the children who absolutely delight in meeting us, God at work all over this diocese, is a lot to take in, in just one week. My one prayer before coming was that I could be in the moment. Not to worry about work, about what time it is here or in the US, what day it is, or how tired I was feeling. I feel like I have definitely soaked it all in. It might take a while to digest but the journey here and the experiences are definitely everlasting. And, even if the children don’t know it they have left an imprint on my heart forever. I wish everyone could experience this special place. This might be my first time in India but it definitely won’t be my last!
Jessica Guzman
I can really feel the imprint on your heart through your words. I am so happy that your journey has been a success. Lots of love & prayers from Seattle!
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