Lunch at KFC

"How lucky I am having something that makes saying goodbye so hard."

-Winnie the Pooh

As conflicting and confusing as Kolkata has proven to be, the love from the individuals that I have come to call my friends erases the discomfort I've felt from my mind.

My friends have left such a profound feeling on my heart these past 10 days. Whether a Penn student, a Kolkatan, or a stranger passing through, the compassion they've shown warms me and leaves me feeling nostalgic. I've realized it's the people that make a place special, not necessarily the physical space. The memories we shared gives a place an emotional context that allows me to travel back in time and space, and today was no exception.

My friend, Sameer, and I took a few children we met on the street to lunch. The previous evening while we were out, a little girl (whom I will call Bohn -meaning little sister in Bengali) had recognized me from once before, and asked me to buy one of the balloons she was selling. I told her I couldn't offer her money, but I would treat her to lunch. She seemed disappointed, but I had seen her pull out a small wad of cash when giving another person change; so, despite feeling like Bohn was hustling me, I still couldn't help but want to do something special with her. I liked her grit. Luckily, Sam speaks Bengali, and he managed to make arrangements for lunch the next day.

So we took six kids to KFC today. The feeling of joy while walking the kids to KFC, seeing Bohn's little brother Amin dance in excitement, hearing them chit-chat over chicken tenders, and laugh among each other was overwhelming. Furthermore, I have to say I was very proud of Bohn. She was super suave in conning Sam into also ordering a chicken rice bowl and a drink.

Unfortunately, Sam won't be joining the kids and I for more KFC lunches. He just completed his medical decorate in Kolkata, and is returning to the U.K. As sad as it is to see a good friend go, I appreciate him helping me give a time and place special meaning. Reflecting on today and seeing Sam leave feels bittersweet. It's a reminder that my time in India is limited. A reminder that every day needs to feel special. The time I have with my peers, Bohn, Akash, and friends I've yet to meet won't always be shared in this way.

I feel like my time in India is flying by, and I'm not sure I'll be ready for it to be over when it ends.

With Bare Love,

Andreana