Meet Gladys

 Meeting Gladys who comes up to me while I am randomly standing at the store...Reliance Fresh. I tell her I am from the US and I am here to volunteer a bit an revisit India. She said, “What a great, kind, the best person to help others.” If you need anyone to take in a young girl age 16 to 25- cloth, bath, shelter, and give food. Please let me know and I would be happy to help- whattt?!!! 

I mean where are these people coming from-who has ever even said that to me in India… Maybe one other time, but really so kind and generous. It took her a million times to remember her number and after the 5th time I did not get it, but I am sure I will see her again.  

The guy who is looking for mayonnaise and we sit and laugh and shake hands. He said, “You are a very sweet girl.” Something about people always saying good things to me to REMIND ME THAT I AM NOT A BAD PERSON!!!!!  

This honeymoon period in India really felt like a dream sometimes because people were so kind on the bus, in the restaurant, on the street, in the hotel, at an event…it was neverending kindness that just kept going each day…It felt surreal at times, but it also felt like confirmation for what I previously went through in California. 

Living in California for 3 years was great, but it had very challenging moments of severe rejection. It felt like everything time I did something kind, I would get slapped in the face…not with everyone of course, but it always felt like I was doing so much and people were rude or not receptive. This trip did a full 360. This is where God is real and God is alive when you have this many positive interactions in this short period of time where angels are coming your way all day….it is just confirmation don’t give up on people, keep your head high, keep your values and morals in check, do not be spiteful/bitter/be grateful, keep smiling, and remember there are good, kind people like you in the world…. 

To make this amazing time even better, I think it was a real dream come true when I saw 24 golden retrievers on a walk with an Indian lady walking through the street. It was magical and a pinch me moment for sure… 

There were so many pinch me moments in a short period of time…and I was grateful that God turned it around for me. Family and boyfriends might not be my “calling” in life or where I find safety, security, and love.. It is people….strangers…new friends…old friends that make my world go round. 

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