Relationships

Friday morning, 9:00AM. Michael and I went for a 'Shekallah' (boat) ride last evening on Dal Lake, which is a large body of water impounded near the office village. This ride -- according to Michael -- is 2nd only to the gondola rides in Venice, Italy. It was quite pleasant, and we were under complete paddle power, and went past floating water lillies, Lotus flowers, diving ducks, and floating vegetable gardens. It was peaceful and cost us 400 Rupies for 2 hours, or $4.00 each!

As I drifted along, my thoughts turned to the relationships that have been built these past weeks. Relationships with the men have been wonderful. We had a good wrap-up with them yesterday, and they asked many probing and insightful questions. Titus was not with us, and it seemed that they were more free to ask delicate questions about animal reproduction that they might not have otherwise asked. I sense a trust and mutual respect that is very healthy. I have had my opportunity to share with how God has worked in my life to bring me to this point in my life. I have given them the cards that demonstrated who was supporting me at home, and those who had supported me financially to be able to come. I feel certain that

they are aware that my being here was a team effort and as a result of prayer, and not because I just wanted to come and see. All the photos are very self-explanatory. The old man with our team member is an extended family member who was in the mountain and we had just enjoyed Chi in his home. We were telling him how proud we were of his cousin, and how he would be able to serve the Gujjar people as a result of his willingness to learn and this new training. Then there was the old man who seems to be scowling, but I am sure he is smiling on the inside. This is the same old man who was praying out loud when I was cutting a drainage hole in his prized billy goat. When we went back for a recheck, he was sooo pleased and readily consented to be photographed with Dr. Bruce Sahib. Unfortunately I lost the next photo into cyberspace, but it was of me and a young Gujjar man who was thanking me for caring for his animals. This would then allow him to continue this way of life, while making a better living for his family.



Finally, there is the photo of the biggest smile that I have ever seen when I gave away a ball cap. Simple gestures, random acts of kindness, a smile, a touch -- they all make a difference. I am also thinking about how God wants me to use this experience in my own life, as I improve my relationship with Him.

This is to be a packing day. There is a general strike, so most shops and other bazaar/village activity is closed down. Frankly, I am looking forward to clearing my living space and getting back to Virginia. I have had the right amount of time here, but my work is done. I will post again this evening. I fly tomorrow and the next day. More later..... BLN