Sparks of India

What are the sparks-- the sparks of India?  When I considered various titles for this blog, my mind was drawn to the name of the dance methodology I'm using here-- Promethean Spark , inspired by the Greek mythology of Prometheus.  If you don't know the story of Prometheus, please follow this link to enjoy a good little read about him! With this story in mind, I considered the many things that the spark represents in the story, but also what it can represent now.  For me, the spark continues to represent what is said at the end of the story, found in the previous link (you can follow it again here , haha)--  "To this day, the term Promethean refers to events or people of great creativity, selflessness, intellect and boldness.  The spark itself refers to the human soul, divine ambition and anything we might share with others that elevates to a more enlightened, joyous, productive and beautiful world."  Already I have seen how my time in India is elevating...

Amala carefully wrapped the long piece of fabric around me-- a little tuck here, and a pinning there... Her tiny, yet skillful hands knew exactly what to do in order to make the fabric hang correctly on my petite frame.  This would be the very first saree for me!  The black sheer material was embroidered with red, green, and gold stripes along a couple of the sides, and a long section of gold was carefully folded to drape over my shoulder.  Nearly an hour later, the saree was ready.  As an after-thought and final touch, Amala pinned a long strand of tiny white flowers in my hair.  It was beautiful!  Although I felt that I couldn't compare to the stunning Indian women in their ornate jewelry and vibrant saree's, I felt beautiful.  As white as I am, I felt so honored to have the opportunity to wear these traditional Indian clothes. A couple hours after Amala dressed me, I found myself on a bus-like van with seven fine Indian men from Rising Star: ...

From eating with my hands to successfully using a squat toilet, today was a rich day!  I met most of the Rising Star staff, including the wonderful Dr. Susan, and I was even taken on a tour of the campus by my good friend, Carrie Scott!  I didn't think she would still be here when I arrived, yet she was ready to greet me with a smile and a hug when I saw her!  Although we only had a few hours together before she had to leave (she's headed home to the US this week), she very kindly and skillfully showed me the ropes of Rising Star.  If you know me, you understand that I can be a human of many questions... Thank you, Carrie, for your patience!  I still have much to learn, but she definitely helped me get off to a good start. The sounds of India have continued to surprise me and fill me with joy.  I am not a fan of bugs, yet I find it quite soothing to listen to the chirping and clicking conversations of the critters (how's that for alliteration?!)  ...

I stepped out of the airport late Sunday night to be greeted by the warm air and friendly faces of India.  Although the night sky made my surroundings dark, I knew that I had just landed in a magical land.  My driver, Vel, and I traveled the busy streets of Chennai to the music of melodious car horns.  I was amazed by the skillful driving of the many bikes, cars, trucks, and the darling tuk tuks!  Sleeping cows lined the streets as we neared the Rising Star campus.  Once we entered the campus grounds, Vel led me down a stoney path surrounded by dark images that I made out to be flowers and bushes.  Ducking under a mango tree, I came to see the Elephant House, complete with an elephant statue at the top of the steps.  We entered the doors of the Elephant House and walked through the dimly lit courtyard to my new room-- the Parakeet Room.  Vel quickly pointed out the ladies washroom and where the safe drinking water is, and then bid farewell for t...