I just watched “Shakespeare in Love,” that feel-good movie starring Gwyneth Paltrow and (a very handsome) Joseph Fiennes. There is a line that repeats throughout it. It goes something like this: “It all turns out well…How? I don’t know. It’s a mystery.”
That’s how it is right now. I will be leaving soon. Incredible India, here I come! Oh wait, after I set things in order here on the home front. Dozens of loose ends to tie up, to ease my absence upon family who will not be traveling with me. Then there are all kinds of details about travel, timing, how to meet someone, how to gain access, how to get permission, stay healthy, and so on…that I just simply can’t wrap my head around. Ah well, maybe that’s the whole point, like in the chaos of the theater, you just have to let go and trust in the process. Stay open to the moment, and let the players do their parts.
Some wonderful friends and acquaintances are stepping forward to help. Glad to have travel companions to ply with U.S. lotions, scotch, and chocolate. Also, so they can gently tease me not to worry so much about recent news of Sino-Indian border disputes, or crimes against women, or potential terrorist attacks in Himachal Pradesh where I will be traveling. Ok, it’s a bit worrisome, but also true that everywhere there are dangers to keep in perspective. Sadly, here on the home front, Sandy Hook happened, and even though that is not far from me, I would still encourage travelers to come visit.
I also met fellow Fulbrighters recently in New York City, and we new friends shared a meal and laughter over visa challenges, other logistical victories and curiosities. I was lucky I got my visa without a hitch, before the Indian Consulate changed over to a new visa outsourcing agency. The changeover, and transitional pains that ensued, literally happened only a day or two after I secured my visa. An auspicious beginning? I hope so.
The door is open! And I think it’s going to be quite a journey…