Off to Nepal!

Hello Again! I just wanted to let everyone following this blog know that I'll be headed for Nepal tomorrow afternoon. I'm not sure if I'll have much access to the internet, so it may be awhile before I write again. I'll return to Kolkata on August 5th, but who knows maybe I'll have some time to escape to an internet cafe while I'm there. :) I'm really excited for a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and I hear Nepal is a bit cooler than Kolkata which is always a perk! Right now, our travel plans are still very flexible and up in the air. But, we definately want to do some hiking as the views of the Himalayas are supposed to be breathtaking.
Today has been a good day so far. After breakfast at Mother House, it was announced that another strike is underway in the city which means that all buses and taxis aren't running! I was disappointed because that means I can't go to Shanti Dan because I have to get there by bus. However, one of my friends offered to take me to Shishu Bavan which is a home for children with mental and physical disabilities. It was a great opporutunity to see firsthand some of the other work that Missions of Charity does. The children were adorable, but it was challenging for me to see that many of these children have had their childhood stripped away from them at such an early age. Many of the children seemed to not know how to play. Many of the children would hoard toys in piles rather than play with them. After much time and patience, I was able to engage a few of the children with some building blocks, but it definately took a lot of effort. I know that the children are in a much better situation than they would be if left on the streets, but it is definately challenging at times when I think about the standards of practice I've been taught in the United States and the realities that are present here. It presents an interesting ethical dilemma that I think will challenge me throughout my journey.
Alright, I'm off to go pick up our team's passport photos for our Nepal visas! Another reason I'm excited for this trip is to spend some time with my team before they return to the U.S. on August 6th. I know it's going to feel weird going from traveling with eight to traveling with two. I'm really thankful that Grace will be with me for the remainder of my time in India. It's nice to have someone else there to reflect with. I'm off, but I'll try to keep you guys posted on my ventures in Nepal!