So, a few things.
It's amazing how in a city whose 2005 census reported 13.2 million people (and that was 2 years, and couldn't possibly have counted all the people living on the streets), the one person you least want to see is somehow able to find you.
I got sick for the first time yesterday, but luckily it has already past. It wasn't terrible, just generally achiness, a bit of stomach upset, and what felt like it could have been fever but may have just been the heat.
I continue to be slightly overwhelmed by the constant noise, so today I did one of the activities that our guidebook had recommended when you need a break from the city. I went to the Oberoi Grand Hotel, a 5-star hotel just a couple of blocks from where I'm staying, and read and journalled for a few hours. It was wonderful. I got a break from the honking, listened to some terrible elevator music, enjoyed the a/c, and reflected without having my thoughts constantly interrupted. I do love this city, but it was quite nice to be able to take a break. And I think I probably did some of my best journalling today.
Also, I stopped by an optometrist office in hopes of getting an eye test appointment. As it turns out, things like that get done much quicker here in Kolkata than in the States. They did the test on the spot and they have their own lab, so I'll be picking up my glasses any time after 4 pm today. I stopped in about 11:15 am. I'm pretty amazed. And it only set me back 1285 Rs (about $33.00 at an exchange rate of 39.4 Rs to 1 US$).
I'm really loving meeting fellow travellers. Such fascinating stories!
Almost forgot! I love working at Kalighat. The women there are absolutely beautiful and so very joyous. I think my favorite experience of Kolkata so far has been having a conversation with one of the women where I did not understand a single word she said. But she talked to me for about 30 min and I smiled and nodded and it was a wonderful experience.
Much Prem,
Melissa
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