Visiting with Gangaji
After a handful of days in the ancient city of Varanasi, we're beginning to find our flow. Our activities have included Hindi language classes, speakers on Varanasi history, Ghat walks, and a tour through Banaras Hindu University (BHU). More recently, students have chosen and begun their first round of Independent Study Projects (ISP's), which so far are flute lessons, additional Hindi classes, attending a three day seminar at BHU on the relevance of religion in contemporary times, yoga, and art lessons. It's been great to see our students assert their interests and dive in!
The five of them are continuing to enjoy the experience together, and there's never a shortage of laughter. As leaders, it's especially satisfying for us to hear and participate with them in conversations ranging from art history to literature to religion. Their curiosity should make for some excellent learning this semester.
We did receive the sad news two days ago that our program participant and new friend Al would be heading back to the States. While it does clearly appear as the best choice for her health, we miss her already. We'll be staying in touch with her via the blog, and hope she recovers swiftly. YOU ROCK AL! GET WELL SOON.
We'll be continuing our ISPs and speakers into next week, and will also have a group Bollywood dance class...stay tuned for amusing pictures and stories.
From the banks of Gangaji,
Harrison and Tracy