A Week In

Sitting here in our hotel room, not fully awake, it is less than two hours until we meet our host families. As with departing for India, it's not be consumed by feelings of nervousness or apprehension, but the the lack of knowing or unfamiliarity. But this entire week in Pune has already eased those lingering feelings about meeting my host family.

The first day here I was completely adjusting to the vibrancy and energy of the city, learning how to navigate traffic where the drivers disregard all sort of rules. Before it was about making the dash across the street with the sporadic break in traffic, now each day has given more encouragement (maybe fearlessness) that I can walk across the street. After our first rickshaw ride, we were slightly cheated, charged like 20 extra rupees but that is the difference of mere change. Now, after Marathi lessons, I have been able to direct the rickshaw driver on where to go. It provides more than just a sense of comfort but a sense of direction.
Going to the markets, seeing the outrageous prices, I am reminded that this might be the Indian version of our malls, attempting to attract a certain clientele with great deals and perpetuate the growing consumerism of this country. it's not been the differences that are remarkable but the similarities that exist between America and India that are astounding.

Life in the hotel has been a good distraction, meeting a host of new people and friends. Although this is a college town, the night life is limited, which is a positive thing. Let's us concentrate on the cultural immersion as opposed to some artificial fun. Seeing the city during the day has been the greatest part, the hustle and bustle of all that is around us. This is a city that sleeps but during the day does not quiet down, all the continued honking of horns, the constant chatter from those on the street you pass by.

The host arrangement will suit me well, I hope. It's with an older couple, about in their 60s, who along with some other host families in the program, are really good, old college friends. They are young at heart, and I will have an adoring aai, or mother, who loves to cook and travel. Thinking of my host family experience last time in Germany, I know that this one will not be a let down. The family I will be living with is descended from an ancient Hindu warrior caste, one of only 96 families, so in India, I was told it's like an ancient blood line, almost royalty to some. Also, I will be able to bike to classes everyday instead of having to pay for a rickshaw, which will interesting in it's own right. The house itself is in an quieter part of the city, more residential and green, which is much preferred. Guess the wait is no longer, just have to pack up all the scattered clothes and then I'll be meeting them!