[Written on an ordinary day in India]
Spontaneity is a beautiful part of life. Today, my friend Zoë accompanied me on a walk past our meal tent. The afternoon sun hit our backs, and our long sleeves became a bit warm. We walked with no destination, no purpose, and no idea where we were going. I’ve come to appreciate these kinds of days, as they leave the most space for the Lord to guide my steps. Almost immediately, we were entranced by the beauty surrounding us. White butterflies fluttered among the abundant underbrush beside the dirt path. The plants varied in vivid greens and diversity, all creating a harmonious, jungle-like scene beside us. We marveled at baby goats, cows grazing, and an incredibly vast expanse of seemingly-unending rice fields. In the distance, locals tended the land, led the animals, and bathed near wells and ponds.
On more than one occasion, the dirt path diverged towards two different villages. This made our journey more exciting, and we enjoyed choosing which direction to explore. Often, we chose the side that disappeared into an unknown view ahead. This is how we found a perfect little valley that was a blessing to our sight and guided us with shade and a refreshing, cool breeze. I was pleasantly relieved about the fact that the locals in the villages didn’t seem to care much that we were there. It was nice to not be paraded with selfie requests and handshakes. Pretty far along, we met a kind man and woman who both knew English and directed us to a longer path. They encouraged us, “go, it is very far but you are most welcome to continue and see. Thank you for your visits.” So, we accepted the invitation and continued on the curvy road. Eventually, we reached a block in the road, and decided to turn back. While I was very content in our peaceful exploration, I said a quick silent prayer that God would lead us into a house to have tea. I know it was a selfish request, but I truly wanted to make some friends.
Sure enough, on our way back, we saw a man who gestured for us to come to Him. We walked up the hill of his driveway and were greeted by his brother and two little girls in Sunday dresses. Quickly, we were ushered into chairs that they had instinctively brought out, and they made conversation with the limited English they knew. Zoë complimented the older sister’s nail polish, and, before we knew it, they had brought it out and begun painting our nails a bright orange. The servant-like humility we encountered only moments after arriving was enough to fill my heart and mind with love. Soon after, we were given crackers and tea! Their generosity was with such intentionality, and they treated us like honored guests. As we chatted and played with the girls, they broke out of their timidity. The older sister, about ten, showed us the traditional Bengali dance she had learned. At some point I looked around, and more family members had gathered around. They led us up a hill to another house—where we were welcomed by more family and more tea. We were brought inside and told to “please sit” as they served us. We were introduced to a grandmother, who was 110 years old! She looked at us, touched our faces, and gave us a huge, gummy smile that revealed she was completely toothless! It was evident that neither of us could communicate through words, but as she looked into my eyes I could feel that she was strong and full of wisdom. After two more houses (each with more tea), we tried to explain we had to go. Their persistence for us to stay was out of great kindness and a desire to give. In the hour or two that we visited, they gave so much to us. They invited us to come back, and I hope we do.
As we walked the path back, Zoë and I attempted to debrief the experience. Quite honestly, this looked like walking in silence with random outbursts of, “what just happened!” After we made our way back to the meal tent, we smiled speechless and sat. The golden sun shining on our faces, we were full to the brim with gratitude, and blessed beyond belief in abundance.
I wonder what it would look like if we were that generous in America to strangers! Think of seeing two girls walking down a street near your home. It most likely wouldn’t even cross my mind to invite them into my home, let alone shower them with all I have. I realize there is a sharp cultural difference between our life in America and the life lived here, but I sure do wish we displayed the love of Jesus more outwardly on a daily basis. The loving, respectful enthusiasm these beautiful people have to reach out to us is incredibly moving.
I hope this one gives you a glimpse in a day of my life here in India. Perhaps it will take you away for a minute and simply remind you to be generous. Speaking of, I thank you for your generosity towards me. Without it, I would not be here—across the world, getting to share all that God is teaching me.
Much love,
Lexi
