What thoughts would you have if a 9year old boy was leading you through the narrow lanes of his neighbourhood and instinctively pulling you to the side whenever a car passed?
Who usually looks out for who? Is what I was thinking.
9 year old Prasenjeet now lives with Jamghat but had been on his own for several years, living on the streets and taking care of himself. With no one to look out for him, he grew up really fast. When he walks beside me, a 25 year old foreigner, we both know who the experienced is at this life.
I’m the child in their world, speaking sentences like a 2 year old, making social mistakes like a 5 year old, learning endless amounts from my young teachers. Were I to live on the streets alone, even now at 25, I’d be terrified and completely lost.
These boys know where to find free food, where to get cheap or free clothes, who to go to for help (NOT the police!), how to survive in the invisible systems of street life. Essentially, how to fight for their life.
I’m amazed daily by their spirit and honest positivity after surviving through it all, alone. I’m sure glad my little 9 year old friend is such a dedicated teacher, looking out for me while I grow up in this daunting city.
2 comments:
Lauren, I really enjoy reading your blog about your adventures in India. You are such a great storyteller, in that you have such a vivid and honest way of describing your experiences (I guess that's why you're such an awesome interpreter!). I find your insights so perceptive. May the rest of your trip be marvellous.
hmmmm....
It has been said
'as long as you think you are better than something, you will never learn what it has to teach you'
humble living
presents teachers
and lessons
good living!
my love to you and your teachers.
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