January 4, 2024

The Joys of Unfamiliarity

Truthfully, during our orientation day, I have been trying to keep a brave face, a face of courage, as every time I cross the street, I keep a stiff arm so far out away from me that I want to believe that it is as sturdy as the concrete made out of these homes we are surrounded by. I did not know the wonders of concrete buildings before because the US formwork has no design that has ever interested me specifically until I put my eyes upon the Vidhana Soudha. In big, bold letters, “Government work is God’s work” was displayed on the cover of this structural ‘gem of Bangalore.’ I felt my heart race as I saw the pride of the different shades and faces of the Indian people around, wanting paper photos of their journey in front of this profound institution where history has been shaped for only a few generations.

I couldn’t hide my face of excitement while facing the utter confusion of crossing several blocks of neighborhoods, which seemed like unknown territory. Even though I surveyed maps along the train station that showed us the exact direction we should move forward, sometimes our confidence wavered, and even asking a question amongst the public made me feel awkward. I began understanding that my confidence in navigation would only improve by developing my brotherly love. Ana, a term that now flows from my tongue similar to saying ‘sis’ in the States, I secretly have found an internal joy as every Ana nearby would immediately turn around and seemingly be ready to be of aid. You think I exaggerate because joy isn’t “usually” associated with help, but riding the public Indian transit will change a person’s perspective. A man who heard my question, “Where is the Garuda Mall?” jumped from his seat to be our guide as soon as the bus made its hasty stop at a corner flooded with motorbikes that most definitely made their own sense of motion alongside traffic. This other layer of joy that filled my heart was when I realized he knew we were going in a similar direction, and even though our destinations were not the same, he smiled to pave our way.

Now, I realize that only in one day of adventure, humility, and great laughs have I seen the kindness I did not anticipate being available. With this unfamiliarity, did I find comfort in discovering my neighbor, in how Indians shop, travel, and bargain.

By Aaliyah