The Dreamy Manjukkudi

It's been like living in a Bollywood movie mixed with awesome science experiments and midnight stargazing sessions—totally mind-blowing!

Every single morning kicks off with our meditation session. Picture this: we're sitting cross-legged, eyes closed, taking deep breaths, and soaking in the peaceful vibes. After that serene start, we head over to this ancient Shiva Temple across the street. It's not just a quick visit; it's like stepping into a whole different world where time slows down, and prayers echo through the air. The first time we went, I thought it was a welcome tour, but nope! This is how they roll here, starting the day by connecting with their inner selves and the universe. It's a powerful way to set the tone for the day, and honestly, I never thought I'd enjoy morning prayers, but the serenity and peace here are worth waking up early for.

Today was a big day for me—I got to play teacher at the local Swami Dayanand Saraswati Secondary School. Let me tell you, those kids are something else! Full of curiosity, energy, and laughter. They found my American accent absolutely hilarious, and when I tried to throw in a few Hindi words, it turned into a full-blown comedy show! But you know what? It broke the ice, and soon we were all chatting away like old friends.

One thing I'm super excited about is my plan to teach them about DNA. Yep, you heard that right! I've cooked up this epic science experiment where we're going to extract DNA from fruits. Imagine their faces when they see how bananas and strawberries hold the secrets of life inside them. It's not just about learning science; it's about blowing their minds and showing them that the world of discovery is right at their fingertips. Can't wait to see their eyes light up with wonder—it's going to be epic!

But hey, it's not all work and no play here. Once the sun dips below the horizon, my buddy Varun and I sneak out (shh, don't tell anyone!) to explore the village. Varun's like my partner in crime when it comes to adventures. He's all about nature and gets super hyped about exploring in the dark. Our favorite thing? Finding a quiet spot in a huge field, lying down, and staring up at the stars for hours. It's like being in a movie, just like "Life of Pi," where every moment feels magical and surreal.

As we're gazing up at the stars, thoughts of home start creeping in. It's only been a few days, but with the time difference and all the amazing adventures here, it feels like forever since I saw Mom and Dad. Mom, Dad, if you're reading this (I bet you are), just know that I miss you heaps. Writing it down feels easier than saying it on the phone, where things can get a bit awkward, you know?

Being here in Manjakkudi has taught me so much about life, friendship, and embracing new experiences. The way people live here is so different from back home in the USA, especially in this village setting. But that's what makes it all so awesome. I've learned to appreciate the little things, like the smiles of the kids or the quiet beauty of the village at night.