Taj Connemara - Awesome Hotel!
Amy and I took a short walk to the mall next to the hotel. It was the first time we have ventured out on our own without a driver. Seems silly, but it was more than just a walk..it was eye opening.
I know I have only posted pictures of the beautiful resorts we have stayed at on the weekends. But the reality is much different. The streets here are sad. There is no sidewalk and it is dangerous to walk close to the road (see previous blog regarding India driving!) There is trash everywhere. Homeless in the street. Small shops and fruit stands scattered everywhere. It is dirty and extremely crowded.
As we approached the mall .. a little girl chased after me the whole way.. reaching her hand out and tugging on me for money. I made the mistake of looking at her in the eyes. They seemed hopeful. I kept walking without acknowledgement. I felt guilt... because my natural instinct is to want to help.
Today I realized I want to do more. I want to give more. I want to take a stand and make a difference in the lives of others.
" Do not stand on a high pedestal and take 5 cents in your hand and say, "here, my poor man", but be grateful that the poor man is there, so by making a gift to him you are able to help yourself. It is not the reciever that is blessed, but it is the giver. Be thankful that you are allowed to exercise the power of benevolence and mercy in the world, and thus become pure and perfect." Swami Vivekananda
It surely mAkes you appreciate the little things in life doesn't it ? Materialistic things don't matter as much anymore
ReplyDeleteExposure to other cultures certainly opens ones eyes. It makes me humble and grateful for what I have.
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad that you're documenting all of this! I've been reading your blog, but just figured out how to "follow" it:) It's so beautiful how this experience is really stretching you. I love your honesty in sharing the good and the not-so-good. You have so much to give!
ReplyDeleteThank you to my faithful followers! I love hearing from you ladies :) Makes me feel a connection to back home - I miss family and friends !!
ReplyDeleteWhere is my NEW post. You promised!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
ReplyDelete