My day began with a traditional Indian breakfast, some tea, and good conversation. Although my eyes were drooping throughout breakfast, once I stepped outside things got a little more interesting. Devotees of Shiva were clustered in the street and hanging off a large, intricately painted truck. Music blasted out of the vehicle, accompanied by shouts and whistles from the crowd. One boy stepped into the middle of the crowd and began to dance - he held one foot in the air, his arms twisted around each other and his white teeth were revealed by a goofy grin. After a few moments, others followed his lead and began to dance together, all smiling, laughing and shouting joyfully. Jeremy, a boy from my program, jumped into the middle of what had become a dance circle. His long brown hair swung around wildly as he jumped and gyrated to the infectious Indian beat. One by one, each of us swallowed our pride and jumped into the middle of the circle - our faces that were once shy and tired became bright and excited. Its amazing how something as simple as dancing can turn strangers into friends. Our group has known each other for less than 24 hours and it already seems like weeks. Diverse and independent, everyone has a reason that they're here - all those reasons are what draw us together.
Today has been eternal and surreal. But good.
My body still hasn't acclimated to the time here, so all I'm wishing for tonight is a good night's sleep.
Where we went: Humayan's Tomb, Dilli Haat Arts and Crafts bazaar
Where we ate: Centrum Hotel, Andhra Bhavan Canteen, Dilli Haat bazaar
Me and Jordan at Humayan's Tomb
New friends
A few more of us...
-- Aimee
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