Reactions To Delhi

We don't really have internet access here in Delhi so I hope you will forgive the gapps in our posts. when we get to Mussori it should become more regular.

We have done a lot since getting here, I want to go over everything but it would take way to long. I figure you'll get to see the specifics of what we've been up to when we upload the pictures. For now I think I'll just give you some thoughts and reactions to Delhi.

It is totaly different world here; there are no traffic laws, no stores as we know them, the homeless build semi-perminent homes accross the sidewalk, and everyone is trying to rip you off.

That might be the biggest adjustment, getting used to assuming everyone is lying to you. In America to we assume honisty unless proven otherwise but here you have to be constantly on guard. We've all learned realy quickly that when asked if this is our first time in India to say "no," "yes" is an invitation to be ripped off. I've also learned to not make eye contact with venders and to ignore anyone trying to get my attention which also go against my instinct. It's realy hard to just keep walking when someone addresses you directly.

There are a lot of very cool things here too; the temples are amazing, monkeys roam the streets, the buildings are breathtaking, and the clothing and colors are briliant. America seems stuffy and ridged compared to India; this place is alive and organic. The entier city comes at you in waves, in one block you'll smell five kinds of food, piss, garbage, and flowers. The city sounds never stop.

I've taken to getting up at about 6:00am in the mornings and going out to walk the city by myself while the shops are still closed and the streets are quiet(ish). You really get to see a different side of the city in the early morning when it gives you a chance to slow down and breath. This morning I watched a monkey steal food from a street vendor, got lost, and had a good conversation with an random Indian guy walking the street.

Tomorrow a bunch of us are getting up early and going to go hiking in a nature reserve, and in the afternoon going to the largest Muslim temple in India. No plans yet for the evening.


To answer your questions and address you comments:

Dad - Yes, I got your pictures, thanks. Yes, it is hot as hell, I drink about two gallons of water a day and never pee. Have not looked into yoga yet. No, it is not as big a deal to use your left had as I had heard. I think the kids here just play Cricket. No, there is not a Starbucks here (that I know of), thank god. The temples that I have been to resemble Catholic churchs where you can go in anytime and pray and talk to people more than an actual service with preaching and things of that nature.

Mom - I don't think people wear fezs here.

Caleb - Yes it was exactly like that. I know better now, way cheaper that it would be in America is still twice it's real price.

Cathy - This computer doesn't have spell check.