I cannot even describe how I'm feeling right now - it's overwhelming... 
to be back in Ghorahi is a real shock... to see people I love and hear good news, but also tragic news. Three years of absence takes its toll on many lives. To smell the hospital again... to be recognized as the 'one' who made the burn patients' ward... to see that things haven't really changed... and to feel as I walked in the ward that something just came to a close. I had this weird feeling of closure about the hospital, a bewilderment that I spent a year struggling to do something, and happy that I'm no longer in that position.
At the same time, things have changed. Internet cafes have sprung up here and there, new buildings are ALL OVER! and baby procreation continues... but then again, pasta and toilet paper are still not available in Ghorahi!
Another realization is that I was right: Kathmandu is not Nepal. I'm feeling the first pangs of cultural shock in my own semi-home - the freedom that people have to comment on 'how much I've lost my Nepali!', or on how my skin reacts to the sun... or else my weight! Thank goodness they all say I look the same, because that would have the end of me if everyone started calling me fat... Everyone though is conspiring to make me gain a few pounds, made solely of rice and lentils!
I'm also struggling with relationships - people believing that I'm here for them alone... friends in need but in very complex situations that I cannot fully comprehend... my every action is significant and I must be slow to act... At this point, I realize I must stop, pray and reflect as to what my role is... Your prayers would be greatly appreciated.
This week will include many dhalbhat meals - morning and evening... work on my interviews during the day... prenatal lessons with my 15 year-old 'sister-in-law' as I call her... chai tea throughout... and lots of missing Clayton. When I pick him up in Nepalgunj on Sunday, I won't let him out of my sight!
to be back in Ghorahi is a real shock... to see people I love and hear good news, but also tragic news. Three years of absence takes its toll on many lives. To smell the hospital again... to be recognized as the 'one' who made the burn patients' ward... to see that things haven't really changed... and to feel as I walked in the ward that something just came to a close. I had this weird feeling of closure about the hospital, a bewilderment that I spent a year struggling to do something, and happy that I'm no longer in that position.
At the same time, things have changed. Internet cafes have sprung up here and there, new buildings are ALL OVER! and baby procreation continues... but then again, pasta and toilet paper are still not available in Ghorahi!Another realization is that I was right: Kathmandu is not Nepal. I'm feeling the first pangs of cultural shock in my own semi-home - the freedom that people have to comment on 'how much I've lost my Nepali!', or on how my skin reacts to the sun... or else my weight! Thank goodness they all say I look the same, because that would have the end of me if everyone started calling me fat... Everyone though is conspiring to make me gain a few pounds, made solely of rice and lentils!
I'm also struggling with relationships - people believing that I'm here for them alone... friends in need but in very complex situations that I cannot fully comprehend... my every action is significant and I must be slow to act... At this point, I realize I must stop, pray and reflect as to what my role is... Your prayers would be greatly appreciated.
This week will include many dhalbhat meals - morning and evening... work on my interviews during the day... prenatal lessons with my 15 year-old 'sister-in-law' as I call her... chai tea throughout... and lots of missing Clayton. When I pick him up in Nepalgunj on Sunday, I won't let him out of my sight!
1 comment:
Hi Cahterine
Be assured of our prayers as you experience difficult situations I'm sure you are counting the days until you see Clayton. Paul leaves on Fri with Leah to go out west. Emma still doesn;t know so it will be a great surprise I am going to Scott and Donna' s for Easter.
Mary
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