We debated just skipping over the India posts altogether. Maybe if we didn’t document it, it would be like it never happened. But it’s happening. So we must. However, I cannot in good conscious blog about Delhi, because it was an utter post-apocalyptic s*%!hole. There’s nothing better I can say. I’m sorry.
We thought Jaipur would be easier to adjust to, being a smaller city (the size of Atlanta versus Delhi’s 25 million) and hearing such great things from others. But, honestly, it’s not quaint. Or pretty. I sound like a negative Nelly, but we are just not digging India. I appreciate and envy those who love this country and see its beauty clearly. I’m still peeling away the smog and trying to step over the trash. (However, I should mention that Luke is totally cool with this country. I am utterly amazed every day with his positive outlook.)
Today we stuck to our tried and true means of getting to know a city – the free walking tour. As ever, it was helpful to learn about the history and culture of Jaipur from a local and be led through the chaotic streets without having to navigate ourselves. I caught glimpses of lovely and interesting things. However, we still saw the nasty, uncivilized side of this country that saddens and angers me. Cows eating trash in the street. Twelve children packed into a “school bus” tuk-tuk careening through the streets. Filth and poverty on every sidewalk. Horns blaring ALL. THE. TIME.
Because I am fully confident God knows our limits, He connected us with a church in Jaipur. Our first church service was comical – the entire thing in Hindi – but it was an introduction to many beautiful Christians who have invited us into their homes every night for small group and asked us to teach English to school children over the next week. I think these people will save us. They are truly a gift from God. Tonight, as we sat in their living room listening to a Lenten study and singing hymns (a few in English!), I knew He was with us.
During the day we struggle, but at night with our new friends we are saved. I don’t think I have the stomach for India. But we press on, thankful for the people we will serve, knowing they are really serving us.
Our walking tour of the old city of Jaipur.
The Amber Fort
Never, ever seen anything like it
Out of our Comfort Zone to Explore the World 
God shows up at the right time, all the time! SO glad He guided your path to some friendly fellow believers. Tell them to take good care of ya’ll. AND don’t worry about the filth, we can clean you up when you get home! :o) Love and so proud of all of you! Kimsey
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Welcome to some of my other worlds!!! Being in a third world country is very hard, especially when your world is as extravagant and lavish as ours is. Keep looking at their eyes and hearts. Sharing the One you know, whenever possible, is the way to make an eternal difference in their lives.
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We’ve seen third world. This is something even more!
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Wow. Just wow. “Stay strong little root” (Chris Farley reference) If it means anything, I truly appreciate the honesty and vulnerability in this post. You guys are amazing.
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You guys are amazing espesalliy Luke. On the bright side the city is a really pretty city so wonderful and I bet the culture is wonderful. Hope ya’ll will not let it stop you from your other places. so just make the best of it.
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Thanks Emmeline! We visited a few schools today and I got to ride horses there. Pretty cool Special, huh? We miss you! Luke
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Mitch
You have to admit that some of the architecture is spectacular. That door and arch are beutiful.
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wow. hearing your words let me know all my friends who have gone before did not lie. wow. and you made us laugh outloud about Luke being ok with it- what a resilient kid. 🙂
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