The beginning of 2019 ushered in a series of changes in my life. One of these happened to be changing portfolios at work meaning that I would no longer be looking after CBMA’s India programs. When I heard of the news I remember feeling a combination of very mixed emotions. On the one hand I felt that change was a good thing and new challenges would benefit me as I progressed professionally. But on the other hand I felt a deep seated personal loss. One for the people I had met along the way and also for understanding that I wouldn’t be able to travel to India in the same way anymore.
As I slowly came to terms with this transition what stayed with me was a feeling of true pride for having had the opportunity that the last 3 and a half years presented me. I began to realise that those I met and the experiences I had would stay with me for a lifetime.
As I look back I am reminded of the times that I was in awe of my experiences. Such as the time when I was travelling through Kodaikanal visiting a Community Based Rehabilitation project. As we finished the day’s activities we began to drive down the windy slopes synonymous with the Kodai hill station. At the time the sun was just starting to set and I remember looking up and out of the window to see a pink/purple horizon over the hills. The image took my breath away and I recall that being one of the very few moments within my lifetime that nothing else mattered except for the natural beauty of that sunset.
I’ve often expressed verbally the true kinship and sisterhood I have felt with women in the communities I have visited throughout my time working in India. I can’t mention this enough because it has truly moved me. In particular I will always hold true being in Ranchi and meeting the fantastic women within the MISSI network. Their courage, determination and fight to better their own circumstances and collectively struggle towards equality is beyond awe inspiring. What remains with me is their commitment towards this concept in spite of truly horrific circumstances. How they have been able to turn despair into hope will motivate me for the rest of my days.
Another fond memory I have takes me back to Tura during my stay with the Montfort Brothers. Their openness and hospitality towards me was something that resonates with the idea of an affinity based solely on shared humanity. The commitment they display, in which they have given the entirety of their lives for is one which is beyond words.
These are just tidbits of some of the stories of the Partners I have encountered on my journey. There are so many others who have inspired me through their work, through their commitment to development and inclusion and I know we will be connected for a lifetime.
I will miss so many things relating to India. I’ll miss the endless amounts of chai; during road stops, in the office and in communities. I’ll continue to crave for the creamy, delicious and refreshing buttermilk which has been offered to me within households of those I’ve visited. I’ll miss the wafting scents of curries, of coconut sambals and the spices of chilli and saffron that have enchanted outsiders for generations.
But most of all, I’ll miss working with wonderful colleagues who have become lifelong friends. I will always cherish the conversations had over meals, through travel on planes, trains and long car rides. I’ll remember interactions within communities based on shared commitment towards inclusion and I’ll draw happiness from the laughter and kinship I’ve felt over 3 and a half wonderful years.
As I take the next step forward to a new region, new colleagues and communities I draw on the experiences I have had in India which will continue to motivate me for as long as I live.
To India, my dear friend, you have taught me so much.
I bid you farewell with an enduring promise to return.
Sx
I blog for Change. 