I CAN'T BELIEVE WE MISSED YOU GUYS!!!
I'm so sorry we didn't have a chance to say goodbye at the airport! I suppose it was a good thing that Cam and I got in line for security when we did because it took us 3 hours to make it to our gate. I saw Erin on the other side of the customs area, but without my boarding pass I couldn't get to her. I hope she understood my sign language and passed on big hugs and kisses to all of you.
My family and Cam's family met us in the airport (with American flag sweaters and red, white, and blue streamers). We had those delicious cheese burgers we've been dreaming about for the past year, but somehow they just didn't taste as good as the thought of them does from Ladakh.
It is 2am and I am sitting alone in my kitchen. Its hard to believe. I've already done two loads of laundry, and tried to explain to my sister the feeling that the blue Rin soap leaves on your hands when you wash clothes outside in frigid glacial melt water. It actually made me sad in a strange sort of way to put my brown clothes in the machine and have them come out sparkling white. I think this is one of the first symptoms we talked about at the Likir house--sort of like the break downs in the produce section. I just hope that I, and all of you guys, never forget what we've learned these past months. We are so lucky to have all of these choices, opportunities, conveniences, and comforts. The first time I returned from India in 2003 I think I was a bit resentful of these things, but I have grown more and more appreciative of them over the past year, although things like Corporation and local food have already popped into my mind several times. I am hoping that with the support and inspiration of you all we will each be able to reach some of the goals and implement some of the changes we have talked about so much. I know it is going to be difficult at times, but thats what we have eachother for!
Well, I'm starting to get tired here, so I will say good night. Knight and Lauren, hope you two are feeling better! Erin, enjoy your first americano tomorrow! I hope you all sleep like kings and queens in your clean cozy beds (I know I will!).
Miss you guys. Love, Sarah
P.S. Will all of you send me your contact info ( szp.stewart@gmail.com ) and I will compile a list for everyone. Also, as you are going through your pictures with your families and friends, don't forget to pick out your favorite one (make sure it is of something Indian, Ladakhi, or Tibetan...not of group members) and send 13 copies (4 x 6) to me at:
43 Forest Glen Road
Longmeadow MA 01106
I'm leaving for Oregon on June 1, so if it won't reach me my then, hold off, and I will send my new address when I have it!