In A Word From Tim

Travel uneventful. A good thing. As promised, the bus ride is long but way more comfortable than the planes.

We landed at 1:30am, on our way on the bus around 3:30am or so. Arrived in Kullu around 5 or 6pm. Checked into our hotel, appropriately named Hotel Aroma. Had diner in the hotel and prepared ourselves for Day 1 teaching on Monday.

Our typical day looks something like this:

8am breakfast

9 – 9:30 leave for schools

10 or so teach to 1pm

1pm lunch

2pm teach to 4pm

Arrive back at hotel

6pm dinner

7pm activity / shopping / free time

10pm lights out

As you might imagine, most teens seem to like to stay up late. Until they realize how exhausted they are anyway. I think they’re there now. Sleep deprived a bit. Weather hot. Teaching exhaustion.

These teens are incredible. They’re doing such great service for the people of India. Make no mistake tho – the greatest service they are providing may just be to themselves. They’re growing in many ways. They’re realizing how great their lives are in America. They ‘re seeing how much humility plays a role in success, connecting with others, and finding meaning in life by realizing that what matters most in life cannot be measured in dollars, material possessions, or status. What matters most is it he relationships we have with ourselves and with others.

I could go on and on about the greatness of each of these teens, and each of the adult leaders. Too many examples of wonderful interactions and acts of kindness have I witnessed to write here. Just know that we’re enjoying our experience together and people reading this should be very very proud.

If I had one word to describe each member of this team, in this moment, it would be this:

Abi. Thoughtful

Aden. Amiable

Alema. Humble

Alysa. Courageous

Anna. Talented

Bella. Brave

Brad. Energetic

Brenner. Adaptable

Charlie. Enthusiastic

Cori. Artistic

Cooper. Considerate

Devin.  Gentle

Jeff. Balanced

Marcy. Determined

Maria. Driven

McKenzie. Cheerful

Olivia.  Caring

Sloan. Present

Ty. Peaceful

Vivian. Committed

Wendy. Compassionate

Will F. Inspiring

Will M. Determined

We left home a week ago. Wow, that was quick.

I’m honored to be a part of this. I love it. I am grateful for the experiences with these wonderful and amazing humans. Each continues to inspire me me in their own unique ways.

And let’s not forget you all at home. Grateful for you too. Parents, YMAD peeps, many others. We wouldn’t be here without your support, both pre-trip and ongoing during it. Thank you thank you

IndiaTim