As some things are starkly different, others are remarkably the same.
June 28, 2011
A conversation about tampons reveals more than I am willing to admit. A fender bender takes two hours and 28 USD to remedy; a far cry from wasting time lining corporate pockets. Men with perceived power - and presumably women as well, although I have yet to meet one in India - are not interested in what I have to say. But women who can cook are valued beyond price tags. Bargaining is an art form and a commended trait, not a sign of cheapness.
Pudding is the term for dessert in Northern England, and only in Northern England; the reference confuses everyone else. Shiva moments - those instances when coincidence becomes serendipity - are universal. Safe water is important to everyone, but safe is relative. Men with big bellies love to rub them after a meal; in India, they like to pull up their shirts and do it on street corners. Dingy hole in the wall bars nestled in dark alleys are awesome.
Dogs are loyal, cats are tricky. Trash piles up on futbol fields but you wash your own tea cup. Agriculture sustains communities; sharing the yield is the purpose. Papaya is best when it has been sitting out for a day, put in the fridge after cutting and served with hot sauce. Indian style bathroom habits are actually more clean; toilet paper is gross if you think about it, and can't flush it. A smile will save you a headache and laughter will encourage respect, even when the circumstances are dim.
Beer tastes better cold. Women wearing bright colors are beautiful, period. The twang of Indian music mixes well with conversation. A shower is a luxury, even when it's chilly. Celebrations often sponsor dangerous behavior. Mosquitos are the worst at dusk but there are local remedies available if you just ask. Children are curious and generally harmless, but smarter than you think. Fifteen cows in the road is "no problem," just be patient. A good nights sleep is really important and an innocent wink can be taken the wrong way.
With love from India, wearing bangles and muddy feet.
Peace.
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