Journal Entry 9/2/06

I have only been a visitor and habitant of Rishikesh (and Ramana's Garden more specifically), for a little over 24 hours, and I already so rapidly feel a sense of "home." Not home in a sense of residence as much as a sense of belonging. While there are adjustments to be made in terms of routine around the compound (the orphanage), getting to know the children and staff, as well as cultural adjustments (mostly social) such as remembering to say "namaste" in greeting instead of the habitual "hello" that most Westerners say even when visiting a foreign country...or removing my shoes when entering a room. I feel a very tangible acceptance to the remarkable "family" here. I had been told, but only now am starting to understand, how the Indian culture is more about the community as whole than it is about the well-being of an individual. While each individual is acknowledged, the community acts as a unit working toward one common goal to which everybody brings their skills and efforts. That is how Ramana's is run - each person (each volunteer) is appreciated, but the focus is on the health, safety, and most of all the education of the children. It is my belief, and my experience, that when a group of people work together to reach a common goal, each person whole-heartedly contributing what they are able, then not only are goals realized more effectively, but individuals are enriched more deeply.