And it all begins....

Hey everyone!

A few have asked that I start a blog to update on what's going on! Writing is definitely not my specialty, so I am new to this whole blogging thing.  I don't leave till the beginning of June, but I thought I should let some of you all know what has been going on. First, I would like to thank those who have supported me through prayer and/or financially. This trip wouldn't be happening if it were you all.

For those of you who had no idea that I was going to India, I plan on doing my internship in a children's home in Kulpahar, India. I plan to be there for a little over two months. In order for me to earn my degree in Management of Non-Profit organizations, I have to complete an internship. But I look at this opportunity more than just a checklist towards graduation. I want my internship to provide me with a positive influence and quality exposure to my field of study, all while being able to give back.

I am so excited for this opportunity! When this school year begun, I did not even think that I would be traveling overseas. Planning for this trip has been really exciting, and from the very beginning things seem to have been falling in place.

Between the time I started planning till now, I have sent out letters, obtained  my passport, visa, and have gotten shots (ouch). My medication for malaria came in yesterday, so I plan to get a ride to Walgreens sometime this weekend to pick it up.

I have committed to High Point Travel to book my flight, but picking a date has been a little complicated. Kulpahar Kid's Home (KKH) is 8 hours away from the airport in Delhi, so finding a date where they can come out of their way to meet me has been changing almost daily within the past week. It is so important to me that I arrive at a convenient time for them. So I am just praying for God to be working out the details in that area especially. I plan on getting a definite answer this week.

As soon as I arrive, the plan is for me and Linda (in charge of hostiles at KKH) to visit the Red Fort in Delhi, and then on June 5 we will go to Agra to see the BEAUTIFUL Taj Mahal. Afterwards, we will then head over to KKH.

One thing Sharon told me (my supervisor) is 'the most consistent thing about our part of India are her INCONSISTENCIES.' Learning the language has been a bit interesting and kind of frustrating. I know some Hindi from watching the Indian movies when I was little. But, it is hard to pick up since the language is so inconsistent.. Gina and I have been watching some Indian movies (recent ones, and ones that bring back memories). They actually help!

Before me, KKH has had one other intern, and her name is Katie Guthrie. She went over to KKH about 5 years ago for her internship. She actually lives in Johnson City, TN. So I plan to meet up with her before I go over there. I am REALLY excited to hear about her experience there.

It is going to be quite a culture shock for me even though my family is of Indian descent. I will definitely have fun getting use to a 9.5-10.5 hour time difference, confusing people by looking Indian but not knowing the language, introducing pedicures/manicures, sharing technology, introducing microwavable popcorn, teaching English worship songs, giving devotionals (with a translator) and  SO much more.

As time gets closer and closer, I get more excited each day knowing that I will be serving there. I could not have pictured a better opportunity than this. Thank you all for investing time to read about my journey to India.

In Him,

Alex Sookrajh :)