Today started off with meeting the kind man named Raghvendra who would be escorting me into the field. Mode of transport: motorcycle. Sidesaddle (to avoid seeming indecent). No helmet. These are all things terrifying to me, though the terror didn’t last long. I couldn’t help, however, but imagine what it would be like to have to jump, tuck and roll during some freak accident. Luckily my less-than-ninja-like abilities didn’t have to be tested out this time. I really had no clue where we were heading, which made each new discovery along the way that much more thrilling.
We first had to head into Orchha where I finally got to see the amazing temples backing the city. Along the way we pass ancient gates and buildings. Something resembling gratitude, but more elusive, starts to sink in deep inside of me. On the winding side roads I smell roasting peanuts and amazingly aromatic flora. Smiles. There’s a beautifully ridged mountain I admire, and as perfect as could be, a mountain goat is silhouetted against the blue sky at the top. A path of red soil is uncovered from repeated use among the brushy landscape. Pinch me! On to dirt roads where children roam in a much more clothing-optional environment. Finally, we reach the village of Pipra. My first visit! There is so much to say and to describe. The warmth and reception was amazing, especially after showing pictures of my family and hometown. Since there was the death of a village grandmother only two days prior, they were in a state of mourning and weren’t officially running class that day. Nevertheless, the women gathered to participate and I sat cross-legged with them on the floor as they read aloud and played games together. So much on a pedagogical level was happening. I have that recorded elsewhere. What I wish to share here is the sense of community. Struggling learners received help, support and encouragement from all the participants. After one women concluded her page of reading, at least two or three of her fellow village women tried the best they could to emphasize her progress from complete illiteracy to her abilities today. It was collective pride mixed with a sense of celebration in accomplishment. They were there for each other. I have never seen a learning environment where the participants were so connected. When we exited the building and walked through the street, I led what seemed like the entire village in parade-like style. Ruby, the 17 year old local leader of the program, invited me into her home. I have no idea how we fit so many bodies into so little space. Her brother, the eldest and only boy of four siblings, was crouched on the floor preparing the dough for dinner that night. Mama and I shared smiles and mutual understanding of raising a family of children with almost the exact same composition. Dad stood with confidence, kindness and obvious joy in his family. This is a special place. I had similar feelings when I first visited Powell River. There’s a familiarity and goodness. Maybe it’s less about the geography and more about the people. I left feeling so full and hope I can return again soon.
7 Comments
Gauri
9/29/2017 09:53:44 am
What exciting and heartwarming adventures. Love your stories!
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Ashley
10/3/2017 02:55:43 am
Thanks Gauri. It is a special place I am growing to love.
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Matthew
9/29/2017 08:36:18 pm
As always your skill with the English language continues to impress me! So glad that you are getting to engage within the part of why you went!! You have always loved working with and for women so I imagine this will be moments to treasure for the rest of your life!
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Susan Russell
9/30/2017 05:32:46 am
Ashley..this is wonderful! I hope you write a book about this experience...I'll be the first to have you sign my copy! Take care dear girl!
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Ashley
10/3/2017 02:57:17 am
Oh Susan, your comment makes me laugh. I am struggling to fill in the past four days of experiences in my journal. A book would be as successful as my kids' baby scrapbooks, of which I have less than one complete ;)
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Tamara Palmer
9/30/2017 01:53:47 pm
You have a way with words. What an incredible experience!
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Ashley
10/3/2017 02:58:23 am
Thanks Tamara! I honestly feel like I still can't do the experiences justice.... Some things really can only be captured in the heart.
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AuthorAshley J.E. Hull Archives
November 2017
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