Journey to Norbulingka

Today it finally felt like India to me, not that it didn't before, but today instead of witnessing India I felt like I was a part of it. Today was the day where we took an 8 hour drive from Amritsar to Norbulingka. They day started off like all the others- waking up too early (6 am) and eating an Indian breakfast together; then we packed our bags and got on the bus. At one point during our long drive we stopped in a small town to get some refreshments and as soon as we got out of the bus it seemed as if the entire town had come out to see us.  When 14 strangers show up from nowhere in a small village, that's news! 

After our quick stop we got back on the bus and continued our journey. We ate lunch a little while later and got our fair share of American food (pizza, french fries, and chicken fingers) which was a nice treat for our stomachs. We also tried a delicious noodle dish and finished it off with Indian "tic tacs" or sugar coated fennel seeds.  The longer we drove, the more narrow the roads became.  Interestingly, mile by mile, the scenery became more and more beautiful as we climbed up in to the Himalayas. The bus ride flew by and I feel really connected to everyone in my group thanks to our bond-building bus ride.  We passed the hours playing catchphrase, writing songs about India, and even making friendship bracelets. At times I think we all felt a little motion sickness (these mountain roads are CRAZY), but we worked through it all together and still enjoyed ourselves. 

When we finally arrived at Norbulingka it was breathtaking.  Although it was raining, everything was so serene and beautiful that the rain just added to the tranquility of the place. Norbulingka is a community dedicated to preserving Tibetan Arts and Culture. Everywhere you go here is magical. Outside in the trees and bamboo are prayer flags and the interior is filled with beautiful artwork and lots of natural light. I said that today out of all the days so far felt the most like India to me because I felt like a part of it all.  We caused traffic jams and we got stuck in them. We dodged animals and they dodged us. We drove through the city, the country, and even the mountains. Today we didn't go see some grand landmark of India or visit a school but I think today is the day I learned the most about myself and everyone around me. 

-Frances

(P.S. We can see your comments Sandra and Elizabeth- thanks for the love)