Thursday, November 22, 2012

Travels

We've have had the opportunity to do a lot of traveling while India.  It's one of the perks of interning with such a great organization!  The more that I experience India, the more I have come to love its culture, heritage, and its people.  Not to mention the colors, foods, and sights!  Here are a few highlights from our travels - and we're not done yet!
Vrindavan at night

Turban wrapping in Rajasthan

Jaipur

Varanasi - the Holy City of India

Getting ready for Diwali in Mumbai

A different view of the Taj Mahal

Amazing Rangoli in Mumbai
Beautiful Beaches of Goa



River Rafting in Rishikesh

And of course, good Old Delhi
View of Chowpatty Beach, Mumbai

Friday, November 2, 2012

They are the future . . . .


How could I not post something about the Children's Tutorial Centre?!  I think that most Maitri interns would agree that it is one of the highlights of the internship experience because the children are so wonderful, so eager to learn, and so much fun to teach.  My heart goes out to them and the challenges that they will face.  My experiences with these bright and beautiful children reinforces my belief that education is crucial for overcoming some of life's most difficult trials.  Maitri provides such a wonderful tutorial centre for these children and allows them to have an opportunity to overcome their situations by learning math, English, science, and the skills necessary to be healthy, independent, and participatory members in their worlds.  My greatest hope for these children is that they will continue with their education and realize their innate potential. However, I can honestly say that I have learned far more from them in the few short months that I have been here than they would have ever learned from me.  What an amazing opportunity it has been to interact with these children on a daily basis!