The munchkins of Varanasi are absolutely adorable. They are like munchkins anywhere...but why is it that they stand out? Why is it easier to talk to them here, not just talk BUT converse. Why is it easy to care? Why is it not an invasion of privacy when I ask them if they had breakfast... if they went to school......... if they have brothers and sisters......if they like selling postcards.......... I was walking with Jonny yesterday, and little Monica joined us on the walk for a few yards. She slipped her tiny palm into Jonny's with an ease of glaring simplicity. She was selling postcards and from her ensuing conversation with Jonny, it was apparent that they knew eachother. Their combined gait was not just natural, it was the kind that did not ask for attention. Impactful to something deep inside me.
It is not about privacy, it is not about talking with ease.. its not the interactive culture that I am submersed in that makes me more talkative, its not that I am more friendly here because it is easy to be friendly and patient in a foreign place.. its just that I have an opportunity to let my humanness emerge.
Varanasi took a chance on me. The divinity took a chance on me.
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2 comments:
Just a non threatening thought - I think our definition of privacy may include certain things which are unique. In my experience asking seemingly intruding questions in certain cultures regarding breakfast, siblings, health, job, etc is not only non-intrusive but seen as a sign of good will / brotherhood. A prime example - in many hollywood movies, a commonly depicted eastern culture (mid east and not necessarily far east) is the belching after enjoying a generous hosts good meal.
Having said that, of course "humanness" is important for an intercourse of dialogues, feelings etc. Without that I believe it will be rather difficult to interact positively.
ofcourse different ideas of "privacy" exist.. Belching is a clear example! lol.
The point I am making is that, in Varanasi it felt like travellers/foreigners had an opportunity to let an aspect of them emerge, as opposed to "being something" while visiting..
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