Can I just say that Julia Jeppson is an amazing photographer? because she took all of these- but I had to include them because they capture the essence of this experience so well! Yay India
Friday, May 30, 2014
With God All Things Are Possible: More Colonies and a Little Bit of Fun
What an incredible four days it has been without any chance to write. I had to write down memory prompts in my journal so that I wouldn't forget the incredible experiences that have been packed into these four days. I have been filled with the joy of service, and I have learned so much from these blessed people. Although they don't have much of anything in their lives, they have joy in their hearts, gratitude, and a testimony that God is their strength. When I came to India, I thought that I would be teaching and helping them, but I have been humbled to realize that it is me who needs to do the changing. Although they have humble circumstances, they sing praises to God all the day long, they have joy and gratitude in their hearts, and they love and accept all with open arms. Their concern for us has been humbling as they make sure we stand in the shade, make us feel comfortable in their home, and offer us food and drink. Their smiles warm my hearts. Although they have disfigured bodies, wounds, and pain, they find happiness and fulfillment in each day and are a great example to me.
As part of our work here, we are doing a little bit of research for BYU which involves interviewing the patients about their experience with leprosy. Since I do not speak their native language (Tamal), it has been a blessing to be able to learn their perspective and communicate ideas. Many of these people have been cast out by society. Some have chosen to leave their homes in order to avoid being a burden on their families because of the stigma. Their stories are both heart breaking and yet inspiring.
A few special moments at each of the colonies that I will never want to forget:
Kalvary Nagur Leprosy Colony:
As soon as we arrived at the colony, we began unloading our medical supplies and setting up. The people began wanting to help immediately. They gestured that we get out of sun and into the shade. Next they insisted that we sat down. They had the ceiling covered in streamers that sparkled, and they had several pictures of Jesus hanging on the walls. One specific lady that I greeted warmed my heart right away as she held my hand and took me across the room. She sat down with me on the floor and held my hand tightly with both of hers as she looked at me with appreciation. I had no words to share with her, but it didn't even matter because the gift of touch was enough.
This specific day I conducted interviews. One man told us his story in having leprosy and the feelings that were associated with it. He said that at first, he was ashamed because he felt that it was a curse from God. He thought that his wrong decisions from his past were punishing him. However, he told us that he has now found peace and that he praises God. Because of God, he feels strength each day. He also said that it doesn't matter what anyone else thinks anymore because he knows himself and he knows that God knows him and that is all that matters. If anyone, he has reason to curse God and complain, but yet he praises him with joy. (It's a good thing that I have so many girls who are willing to be my photographer and me be theirs haha ;))
The kids are so fun here. Today in particular there were six children- 3 boys and 3 girls that I played hand games with. They are so fun to play with and they love to have their picture taken and to look at it afterward. (I have found that taking pictures is an easy icebreaker here- they are proud to have their picture taken and they love to see it afterward). One girl-Tamal Selvi is coming to school at rising star on Sunday! She speaks great English, is well put together, and I can tell that her family is so very proud of her.
Paranur Leprosy Colony:
This leprosy colony is different from many of the others that we visit in that it only is seen by rising star once a year from the BYU nursing students. Because this colony is associated with a hospital, we didn't come to this colony to perform medical care, but instead it was a socializing trip. When we first got there, I couldn't believe how many monkeys just hung out in the trees around the village! I counted twenty in one setting: baby monkeys, mamas and papas. They are so cute, although I hear that they can be vicious, so I take pictures but also keep my distance. After my fascination with the monkeys wore away, I began to walk through the village to meet the people. Each of their homes were connected and there was a porch extending where they each sat outside their doorways. I loved looking into each of their faces, and sometimes I just wished I knew the language so I could talk with them more easily.
I talked with two particular ladies who had a really beautiful friendship. One of the women had no leg; she was elderly and she had little to call her own. Her friend took on twice the effort to go and get herself and also her friend water each day in the hot weather. She also helped her make her meals each day. They knew just a little English to talk with us and share their names. They sang songs together about Jesus, and although I couldn't understand the words, I could feel the spirit. We then helped her put on her prosthetic leg and take her to the community center where we put on a little show. . .
So We Sang and We Danced:
Because we weren't carrying out any medical care at the Bargur leprosy colony, we still wanted to lift their spirits, so we put together a humble little show which consisted of a few hymns, songs, and dances. We taught them (mostly the little kids) a line dance to boot-scoot and boggy and the macarena to Taylor Swift's 22. This was obviously not the top of the line performance, but we sure did get them involved. Only a few kids came to the stage, but they were enough! I taught one specific little boy to dance, and he followed my every step and he got so into it!!!!! It was so fun to be in my element of dancing! Although I am sure we looked like fools- at least they were laughing- even if they were laughing at us. After we danced and sang we asked them if they would sing for us. One man who must have been the elder of the colony sang us a loud and proud song that praised Jesus- it was awesome! His name was Ambros.
After our lovely show, we went to see the community hall where they had the largest pot of rice I had ever seen! They all brought their pots and got food enough for themselves of their family. We got to talk to Ambros a little more and he told us that Jesus is his strength- he would be nothing without Jesus. He also told us to never forget him- when we think of India we should think of him. I loved this man, and he sure was a great singer!!!!
And So Starts our 3-day trip to the South
Day 1
About two hours into our six hour drive, we broke down on the side of the road which made for quite an interesting experience. India is not the ideal place to be stranded in the middle of the road. Good thing for trusty bus drivers and leaders. Also a good thing for tough girls who don't complain! A highlight of this little interruption to our trip was definitely the Indian women we met walking down the road who were actually walking with their bags and pots on their heads!! They looked amazing decked out in their Indian clothing and jewels and they had great balance. A few of us ran over to ask if we could take their picture, and they were more generous than just that.They helped us each try to balance the bags on our own head and laughed with us. It was a really neat thing to bond with the women even though we couldn't speak their language.
After we finally made it on our way (six hours later) we made it to the Bargur Leprosy Colony where I did random blood sugars with a full blown needle to prick their fingers and I also did blood pressures. They all tried to be tough- despite the fact that some of them were obviously afraid of the needles.
The kids at this village were some of the most playful and they joined us in making animal noises, playing slaps, and loved to be carried. I also loved how dolled up they each were in their adorable clothes!
I met some teenage girls drawing water and carrying it in pots on their heads- they were nice enough to teach me a little of their skill.
There is a White Person on the Streets
That night we went on a small walk down the road by our hotel. I felt as if we were on parade because we definitely stood out with out white skin. A lot of people would ask for a picture, but come to find out they didn't have a camera- they just wanted us to take a picture of them with our camera!! Two teenage girls and their mother were fascinated by the fact that we were American so much that they asked us to go to the photo studio across the street to take professional pictures! We obviously didn't for lack of time haha but it was pretty funny.
Thokampatty Leprosy Colony:
Today was another day of interviewing at the colony and another great experience. I just want to talk about one specific lady that we interviewed though, because she was incredible and I know that I will never forget her. Her name was Angela, and she was a fifty seven year old widow. She had only a few of her teeth and her hands and feet were deformed. BUT, she still had the most beautiful smile that radiated like a little angel on earth. Her husband died just six years back and so did her children. She was all alone, but she did have the support of the colony. She spent her days working for daily wages doing things like gardening. When she talked about her life, I felt sympathy for her somewhat overwhelming trials. However, when we asked her what gave her strength she began to boast in her God. She told us that she wakes up each day and praises the Lord - sometimes until noon. She wasn't just saying it either, because her smile and light that shined from her eyes told all. I wondered how she could be so grateful and how I could be so selfish back in America, especially when she brought us into her humble home. Her home was small and made of cement, but the way she beamed as she showed it to us you would have wondered if it was a mansion. She was so proud and so happy. She had a picture of her deceased husband on the walls, a picture of Jesus, and a few pots on the shelves. This was all that she needed- this and her testimony of Jesus Christ.
Hoganekal Falls
So, you can't have work without play!!! Here I'll just share some pictures, but man was this an incredible break from the heat and sweat! The rain felt amazing and so did the water. Needless to say- I almost got kissed by a mouse and Cheryl had a fish jump down her shirt. All for good memories
Karigiri Leprosy Hospital
Today, we got a tour of the leprosy hospital and got to learn just a little more about it and its history. It was really cool to see how the hospital got started and how so many doctors and nurses are working to cure leprosy and beat the stigma. It was a Christian hospital and they played some pretty fantastic music. Here, we got to do some dressing changes, but mostly I enjoyed interacting with the patients. One thing I found fascinating was how they prayed and sang to God during each procedure. These people completely amaze me- no doubt! God lives and he loves us. Matthew 19: 26, But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible. This scripture represents everything I have felt on this journey so far, and I am grateful for a God who loves us and is aware of our circumstances- a God who helps us feel such joy even in our hardest trials. Praise the Lord! (As many of the Indians have said)
About the colonies:
I used to think that leprosy colonies might be a sad sight- and they are in a way. However, I have seen that there is more joy there than almost anywhere else. This place is a safe haven for many who come together to feel welcome. In many of the interviews said that it was devastating to discover their diagnosis of leprosy, however, when they came to the colony, they found hope in others who were experiencing similar situations. They get married and they have BEAUTIFUL children that are going to school at rising star, speak beautiful English, and have hope for a very bright future!
As part of our work here, we are doing a little bit of research for BYU which involves interviewing the patients about their experience with leprosy. Since I do not speak their native language (Tamal), it has been a blessing to be able to learn their perspective and communicate ideas. Many of these people have been cast out by society. Some have chosen to leave their homes in order to avoid being a burden on their families because of the stigma. Their stories are both heart breaking and yet inspiring.
A few special moments at each of the colonies that I will never want to forget:
Kalvary Nagur Leprosy Colony:
As soon as we arrived at the colony, we began unloading our medical supplies and setting up. The people began wanting to help immediately. They gestured that we get out of sun and into the shade. Next they insisted that we sat down. They had the ceiling covered in streamers that sparkled, and they had several pictures of Jesus hanging on the walls. One specific lady that I greeted warmed my heart right away as she held my hand and took me across the room. She sat down with me on the floor and held my hand tightly with both of hers as she looked at me with appreciation. I had no words to share with her, but it didn't even matter because the gift of touch was enough.
This specific day I conducted interviews. One man told us his story in having leprosy and the feelings that were associated with it. He said that at first, he was ashamed because he felt that it was a curse from God. He thought that his wrong decisions from his past were punishing him. However, he told us that he has now found peace and that he praises God. Because of God, he feels strength each day. He also said that it doesn't matter what anyone else thinks anymore because he knows himself and he knows that God knows him and that is all that matters. If anyone, he has reason to curse God and complain, but yet he praises him with joy. (It's a good thing that I have so many girls who are willing to be my photographer and me be theirs haha ;))
The kids are so fun here. Today in particular there were six children- 3 boys and 3 girls that I played hand games with. They are so fun to play with and they love to have their picture taken and to look at it afterward. (I have found that taking pictures is an easy icebreaker here- they are proud to have their picture taken and they love to see it afterward). One girl-Tamal Selvi is coming to school at rising star on Sunday! She speaks great English, is well put together, and I can tell that her family is so very proud of her.
Paranur Leprosy Colony:
This leprosy colony is different from many of the others that we visit in that it only is seen by rising star once a year from the BYU nursing students. Because this colony is associated with a hospital, we didn't come to this colony to perform medical care, but instead it was a socializing trip. When we first got there, I couldn't believe how many monkeys just hung out in the trees around the village! I counted twenty in one setting: baby monkeys, mamas and papas. They are so cute, although I hear that they can be vicious, so I take pictures but also keep my distance. After my fascination with the monkeys wore away, I began to walk through the village to meet the people. Each of their homes were connected and there was a porch extending where they each sat outside their doorways. I loved looking into each of their faces, and sometimes I just wished I knew the language so I could talk with them more easily.
I talked with two particular ladies who had a really beautiful friendship. One of the women had no leg; she was elderly and she had little to call her own. Her friend took on twice the effort to go and get herself and also her friend water each day in the hot weather. She also helped her make her meals each day. They knew just a little English to talk with us and share their names. They sang songs together about Jesus, and although I couldn't understand the words, I could feel the spirit. We then helped her put on her prosthetic leg and take her to the community center where we put on a little show. . .
So We Sang and We Danced:
Because we weren't carrying out any medical care at the Bargur leprosy colony, we still wanted to lift their spirits, so we put together a humble little show which consisted of a few hymns, songs, and dances. We taught them (mostly the little kids) a line dance to boot-scoot and boggy and the macarena to Taylor Swift's 22. This was obviously not the top of the line performance, but we sure did get them involved. Only a few kids came to the stage, but they were enough! I taught one specific little boy to dance, and he followed my every step and he got so into it!!!!! It was so fun to be in my element of dancing! Although I am sure we looked like fools- at least they were laughing- even if they were laughing at us. After we danced and sang we asked them if they would sing for us. One man who must have been the elder of the colony sang us a loud and proud song that praised Jesus- it was awesome! His name was Ambros.
After our lovely show, we went to see the community hall where they had the largest pot of rice I had ever seen! They all brought their pots and got food enough for themselves of their family. We got to talk to Ambros a little more and he told us that Jesus is his strength- he would be nothing without Jesus. He also told us to never forget him- when we think of India we should think of him. I loved this man, and he sure was a great singer!!!!
My dance buddy
Ambros
And So Starts our 3-day trip to the South
Day 1
About two hours into our six hour drive, we broke down on the side of the road which made for quite an interesting experience. India is not the ideal place to be stranded in the middle of the road. Good thing for trusty bus drivers and leaders. Also a good thing for tough girls who don't complain! A highlight of this little interruption to our trip was definitely the Indian women we met walking down the road who were actually walking with their bags and pots on their heads!! They looked amazing decked out in their Indian clothing and jewels and they had great balance. A few of us ran over to ask if we could take their picture, and they were more generous than just that.They helped us each try to balance the bags on our own head and laughed with us. It was a really neat thing to bond with the women even though we couldn't speak their language.
After we finally made it on our way (six hours later) we made it to the Bargur Leprosy Colony where I did random blood sugars with a full blown needle to prick their fingers and I also did blood pressures. They all tried to be tough- despite the fact that some of them were obviously afraid of the needles.
The kids at this village were some of the most playful and they joined us in making animal noises, playing slaps, and loved to be carried. I also loved how dolled up they each were in their adorable clothes!
I met some teenage girls drawing water and carrying it in pots on their heads- they were nice enough to teach me a little of their skill.
There is a White Person on the Streets
That night we went on a small walk down the road by our hotel. I felt as if we were on parade because we definitely stood out with out white skin. A lot of people would ask for a picture, but come to find out they didn't have a camera- they just wanted us to take a picture of them with our camera!! Two teenage girls and their mother were fascinated by the fact that we were American so much that they asked us to go to the photo studio across the street to take professional pictures! We obviously didn't for lack of time haha but it was pretty funny.
Thokampatty Leprosy Colony:
Today was another day of interviewing at the colony and another great experience. I just want to talk about one specific lady that we interviewed though, because she was incredible and I know that I will never forget her. Her name was Angela, and she was a fifty seven year old widow. She had only a few of her teeth and her hands and feet were deformed. BUT, she still had the most beautiful smile that radiated like a little angel on earth. Her husband died just six years back and so did her children. She was all alone, but she did have the support of the colony. She spent her days working for daily wages doing things like gardening. When she talked about her life, I felt sympathy for her somewhat overwhelming trials. However, when we asked her what gave her strength she began to boast in her God. She told us that she wakes up each day and praises the Lord - sometimes until noon. She wasn't just saying it either, because her smile and light that shined from her eyes told all. I wondered how she could be so grateful and how I could be so selfish back in America, especially when she brought us into her humble home. Her home was small and made of cement, but the way she beamed as she showed it to us you would have wondered if it was a mansion. She was so proud and so happy. She had a picture of her deceased husband on the walls, a picture of Jesus, and a few pots on the shelves. This was all that she needed- this and her testimony of Jesus Christ.
Hoganekal Falls
So, you can't have work without play!!! Here I'll just share some pictures, but man was this an incredible break from the heat and sweat! The rain felt amazing and so did the water. Needless to say- I almost got kissed by a mouse and Cheryl had a fish jump down her shirt. All for good memories
No I did not mean for it to come that close! But the timing of the picture capture it all right before I screamed!!!
Karigiri Leprosy Hospital
Today, we got a tour of the leprosy hospital and got to learn just a little more about it and its history. It was really cool to see how the hospital got started and how so many doctors and nurses are working to cure leprosy and beat the stigma. It was a Christian hospital and they played some pretty fantastic music. Here, we got to do some dressing changes, but mostly I enjoyed interacting with the patients. One thing I found fascinating was how they prayed and sang to God during each procedure. These people completely amaze me- no doubt! God lives and he loves us. Matthew 19: 26, But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible. This scripture represents everything I have felt on this journey so far, and I am grateful for a God who loves us and is aware of our circumstances- a God who helps us feel such joy even in our hardest trials. Praise the Lord! (As many of the Indians have said)
About the colonies:
I used to think that leprosy colonies might be a sad sight- and they are in a way. However, I have seen that there is more joy there than almost anywhere else. This place is a safe haven for many who come together to feel welcome. In many of the interviews said that it was devastating to discover their diagnosis of leprosy, however, when they came to the colony, they found hope in others who were experiencing similar situations. They get married and they have BEAUTIFUL children that are going to school at rising star, speak beautiful English, and have hope for a very bright future!
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