Our last day in Kolkata

Tonight we leave Kolkata; when the group left Sikkim I thought it impossible that I would be able to fall in love with any other part of India. But I have, and I will truly miss the home I've made for myself here. Before leaving for India, I was told by anyone that had ever been here that this country was full of contradiction. I believe I love Kolkata because it is a perfect example of that. This city is when I first began to really see that contrast. There is so much beauty and so much poverty at the same time---all on the same street corner. The group has spent the past six mornings giving their time to the less fortunate; people that are suffering from extreme cases of mental and physical handicaps. Then, somehow, we find ourselves eating at nice restaurants, enjoying good company and sleeping in more than adequate rooms. The contradictions are at times difficult to handle, but they cause you to think, and to act. I feel much more aware, and am beginning to appreciate India for everything that it is. During my time here, I have felt more than anything a sense of purpose, because I have people to help and friends to talk to. I think less about myself, and I realize that's a good way to live life. I hope that I can continue to live with a sense of purpose even if I can't remain in Kolkata. I look forward to making new connections, continuing to discover things about myself, and helping more of those in need.

Namaste,
Isabel

Conquering our own "cliffs of insanity!"

Sitting here in Darjeeling, it seems quite a feat looking back on the arduous trek the group and I just accomplished. From Yuksam at 6,000 ft. to Dzongri at 13,200 ft., we were out in the Himalayas for a good 7 days; days full of ups and downs, challenges and rewards, pain and beauty. I believe the trek was much harder than most of us expected, and in that sense, it was much more meaningful to hike up thousands of feet over the course of 3 days uphill and 3 days downhill.

Throughout the hike the group had a natural split between those who really took on the mountain and those who wished to take their time through the forests. I believe we were all comfortable with the paces we chose, either speeding up or slowing down whenever the jagged rocks that were our steps became too intense. The first day we hiked about 8km and stopped for camp at a random field to the side of the trail. Our dedicated and amazing porters and cook, Tenzing, made a delicious meal of vegi momo's, dhal bhat, and chapati.
The second day was just as difficult, or challenging I should say, and we stopped in a small mountain village called Tsokha for the night. Of course we had more satisfying food waiting for us, and as well as entertainment that night: some of the locals and our porters got together for song and dance. Chelsea, Isabel, Molly, Suz and I went to check out the "dancing" which was really a bunch of turning in circles and jumping around, accompanied by yelling or chanting and the clapping of the hands. Our friend from our Lepcha homestay, Pema, was there to join in!

The next day we reached Dzongri. The view was absolutely breathtaking from where we set up camp, and we all took into appreciation the fact that we were, indeed, on top of a mountain in the Himalayas. An awesome feeling and sight. The full day we spent in Dzongri went to resting our bodies or going on a pleasant day hike up to some view points along the mountain ridges. And despite the cold weather, we all rather enjoyed the alarmingly fresh mountain air and relieving atmostphere around us.

The group has taken to having "story time!" inspired by Chelsea and myself to spread our love of Princess Bride with the rest of the group. Drew, our leader, however, knows the entire story by heart, and we barely need to read the book aloud to follow it along, as Drew could act it out word-for-word. But it has indeed been a nice group experience, thought it doesn't measure up to what the group went through during the trek. Emotionally, physically, and spiritually we all had our own revelations on the mountain.

The morning we awoke at 3:30am for the sunrise over Mt. Pandim and Mt. Kanchenjunga was certainly a magical one. Seeing the pristine peaks at first light was an experience we're bound to keep near and dear to our hearts throughout the trip, and most likely throughout our lives. Because despite the bitter cold weather, and wind really nipping at our noses, the mountains overpowered any sense of discomfort. The mountains stood there in striking beauty, and all we could do was be there in the presence of them. For me, seeing something so magnificent at such a young age was invaluable, and I am so glad to have been able to share that experience with the group. I know we all had our individual moments with mountains, but as a group we saw them together, and it brought us closer.

Tonight is our first ever train ride in India. Kolkata is near, and we feel anticipation. Are we prepared for it? Who knows! I do know that we're all looking forward to more growth.

Until next post,
Namaste,

Olivia

Living in Heaven

After the pandemonium of Paharganj, Delhi, the serenity of Sikkim came as a breath of fresh air (literally). We are currently at a homestay, and staying with a fantastic family, the Lepcha's. They have been more than amazing to us, accommodating our every need and opening their house to us in every way. They also have a beautiful 14 month old boy, who is terrified of Drew (a leader). Its quite hilarious. For the past few days we have been going to volunteer at a local primary school called Phensong. The students there are absolutely incredible; not only do they speak remarkably good English, but they have bright, vibrant attitudes and are great to be around. We've been "teaching" them, but basically all that consists of is a couple from our group hanging out in the classroom as we watch them do traditional dances or sing us various local songs. In return, they request some of our traditional dances and songs. What do we do? We botch the national anthem and teach them Soulja Boy (if you dont know what it is, dont look it up). It has been an absolute blast working with these kids during this past week, and all of us have made connections with the students that we will not likely forget. One student from class ten, Lakmi, has become particularly attached to us. She insisted, quite adamantly, that the two of us accompany her to her local monastery. It was one of the most beautiful works of art I have ever seen, and it was great to see an example of a traditional, local monastery. We also were able to contrast that rural monastery with the equally beautiful but definitely different environment of a monastery open to and frequented by tourists.

Our Sikkimese cultural education has been supplemented by lectures from Pema, editor of the largest newspaper in Sikkim, and an astoundingly knowledgeable botanist who welcomed us into his beautiful home and garden, showing us a side of this place one has to dig slightly deeper to find.

Besides the fulfilling activities of our days, we have been experiencing a couple forms of turbulence: bodily and vehicular. Luckily, our group can still find humor in the bold maneuvering of our driver Sashin, a.k.a. Snoop as well as the interesting rumblings of our bellies.

One of our favorite places to chill out and absorb the wonders and trials of the day is on the roof of our homestay house where we have a brilliant view of the mountains speckled with homes. I know that many members of the group have made a connection to this region and feel compelled to return at some point in their lives. It has been a stimulating stay, intellectually, physically, and spiritually, one that we are not going to forget. As we look off the balcony/roof (which happens to be right outside my bedroom- Anna) on a particularly cloudy or foggy day, we cant help but feel as though we're living in heaven, amongst the clouds. If this is what heaven is, I'll see you there.

Wish us luck on our week-long trek through the Himalayas!
Anna & Kelley

The First Few Days-

Flying was a chore. By the time we reached Hong Kong for our rather long layover, we all (besides being nearly vegetative from jetlag and lack of sleep) felt as though we had known each other for much longer than mere hours. Upon landing, we deliriously came to the decision to visit the world's largest sitting Buddha, about 45 minutes by bus outside of Hong Kong. Even through our tired hazes we were able to fully appreciate the sight (it was gargantuan, really). This revelation and more was promptly followed by glorified ramen noodles. Could've just been the jetlag, but I swear they tasted better than what I'm used to.

When we finally landed in Delhi I felt that we had all set up shop professionally aboard various aircraft. Spending nearly twenty-seven hours aboard is enough to mess with your perceptions a little bit. The taxi drivers here are extremely candid (read: girlfriend stories), and this in addition to the veritable sledgehammer combination of unfamiliar sights and sounds made for a unique first experience in this country. After this, we promptly fell asleep.

Ever since, we've been acclimating. Learning what to eat and what not to eat, learning how to deal with beggars and shopkeepers, learning generally how to get around without being completely inept. Our stomachs have also been acclimating. Enough detail on that.

Until next time,

Jake and Chelsea

It's official ... let this journey begin!

I just heard from the leaders and it appears that our intrepid group of travelers are together and preparing to check in for their international flights to New Delhi! I have to admit this is thus far an incredibly smooth series of gatherings for all of our Carpe Diem crew and I only hope this portends for as successful a semester as the SFO union has been! As luck would have it they'll be sharing the first leg of their flights with Team Southeast Asia - so here's to the beginnings of some wonderful bonds!

Please stay tuned for blogs from the students themselves as they arrive into New Delhi and roughly every week thereafter!

Yours in spirit,

Ethan

shifts

Namaste,

I hope you are enjoying time with your family and friends, and feeling easy about your fast-approaching trip.

In most of life, and especially in India, the only constant is change. It may be an appropriate introduction to your travels in India to experience some change before you ever depart.

Your leadership team is shifting. Suzanne Pazandak will now be co-leading with Drew. She has been to India with Carpe Diem in the past and will be a fantastic resource culturally and personally. I will be staying in Portland to work on some related projects. I wish you all the best during your journey.

Lokah samastah sukhino bhavantu / May all beings be happy and free
Om shanti shanti shanti / Om peace peace peace

Karen

Final Days before Departure

Namaskar. Kia hal haim? / How is your situation?

The situation at Carpe Diem in Portland is auspicious and excited. Drew and I are working with itinerary and logistics, learning all we can about you in absentia, and getting to know each other as well. This is the first of many blogs for our semester, which you all will be taking over soon. The previous semesters' blogs will be left there for inspiration and ours will remain next semester as well.

Our group has been described as contemplative. Who are these philosophers, writers, and musicians who have volunteered worldwide and continue to invite travelers into their homes? We will soon be meeting each other--a chorus of community organizers, global citizens and seekers. Drew and I are excited to meet each of you. We will be calling you in the next few days. Don't forget that you can also email us with any concerns or revelations that you have.

Shanti / Peace,

Karen and Drew