Namaste. Namaskar. Both common greetings here in Nepal, both sanskrit terms with various interpretations, but regardless, two powerful words that mean more to me than ever before. I am beyond grateful to be here, and every encounter, every greeting, evoke feelings of indescribable empathy. Hands pressed firmly together at our hearts, we exchange smiles, Namaste, and a subsequent smile with a sweet sense of relief---our presence reinforces the fact that someone still cares, 6 crazy Caucasians embossed with respiratory masks, sweat and layers of dirt---Namaste, Nepal.
"Cock-a-doodle-doo," exclaims Roy the Rooster. "Hruu, Hruu," whisper the pigeons. "Beep, beep, beep," squeak the motorbikes. "Namaste," Sanu and Laxman murmur softly. All reassuring sounds amidst sun salutations, sounds which signify the beginning of another day, another opportunity, to make an impact. With school commencing at 9:45, we are blessed with time to absorb Nepali scenery and culture from the guesthouse rooftop, from the simple filling of water cans to the gut wrenching home demolition set against the hazy, dust-filled air and jutting Himalayan peaks. Originally prepared to focus solely on teaching at Deeya Shree, each sunrise and 360 degree scan reminds me of the recent tragic events that have resulted in overwhelming fear and family heartbreak, motivating Team Nepal to literally "pitch in," redefining our manual labor objective.
Not only is my sensory stimulation at its peak each morning, but the peaceful atmosphere fosters breakfast conversations, reflections, and innovative thinking amongst our group comprised of individuals possessing wisdom beyond their years; this group of four veteran CGA students will be sorely missed. So I take it all in, ensuring that I effectively mentor them in the classroom, provide them with constructive feedback, prompt them to think and create for themselves...this final service trip, a trip that consumes every last bit of mental and physical strength, reminds me that this is why I teach.
Loving what I'm doing...
Namaste,
Jen
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