Expectations and experiences in Kerala

It is strange to think that two weeks ago I was heading to India terrified of what awaited me. The day before I left it suddenly occurred to me: “What if I don’t enjoy it?” “What if the kids don’t listen to me?” “What if...” Millions of worries spread through my mind. I had travelled before with people and on my own, but volunteering is like nothing else. It has more of a structure and it requires hard work. 

As these thoughts rushed through my tired jetlagged head my experience of Indian culture began. Flying from New Delhi to Kochi I could feel all eyes staring at me and whispers in a language far from my own it, I felt it was obvious I did not belong here. Landing during the middle of a political strike; meaning there was no taxi waiting to pick me up, was not what I wanted to find out while struggling to keep my eyes open and feeling more and more uncomfortable with the prying eyes. A few hours at the airport and I finally made it to Oy’s La in Fort Cochin where I was welcomed by everyone.

Since then I have been introduced to Kerala, done a treasure hunt around the town, eaten so much delicious food, visited Munnar, rode an elephant, spent the final week of summer camp at the boys’ home and now nearly completed the first week at the girls. At the boys’ home there were so many characters. In only a week I knew which ones turned up for sport and which preferred arts, as well as those which bossed the others around. Their excitement, enthusiasm and even cheekiness is incredible to experience. I remember being shocked on my first day of teaching that all the boys sat in silence and listened to what I had to say: I certainly was not expecting them to be so well behaved or so eager to learn. 

Now I have experienced the same amount of time at the girls’ home and they are a whole different kettle of fish. This is not to say they are less enthusiastic, far from it; but they are more composed and think through everything you say. This time I am no longer teaching the older group but the beginners and their interest in a language they know very little of is inspirational to see. While I spent all last week trying to calm the boys and find them something intellectual but exciting, this week I find myself dancing round the classroom making barnyard noises.

Now that I think back to my anxiety and my many questions I find it ridiculous those thoughts crossed my mind. How could I ever hate this? Within two days all my fears had gone, and now although I tackle something new every day, I am happy with every day that passes and supported by all the staff here. The staring still happens, but I no longer feel uncomfortable as I know they mean well and I’ve seen inquisition is something to really be encouraged. I still have two weeks left in India and with the girls and I don’t doubt there are many more exciting things to come. I know I still have not experienced all Kerala has to offer. 

Expectations and experiences in Kerala