Hope for the Future

The interaction with the locals here in Kolkata is something that simply can't be found anywhere else in the world. Over the past few days visiting both Freeset and Future Hope has taught me that a little smile goes a long way. Not many workplaces will have people as enthusiastic and happy as those in Freeset. Seeing how they made their bags and clothes, watching the sewing process itself, for me, was something that changed my perception on things that we take for granted daily. Never have I before this day, picked up a t-shirt and thought about who made it and what their story might be - I am truly glad that Freeset has saved may people's lives. Freeset is the kind of organisation that this world needs more of, and now, there is no way I can just sit back and do nothing about it.
Yesterday was definitely the best day I have had in India to date, (I'm sure many more will come) as we spent the afternoon into the evening with the absolutely awesome kids at Future Hope. My mate Raam (13) whom I hung out with was just 'the man'. After getting thrashed in Carram (I think that's how you spell it) we had a tight game of chess, I have to say that old Ivan has still got it. Best victory ever - beating someone 4 years younger. Oh.
Moving on, what I really want to share today is how I got to know Raam better. Learning about his story, about his life, and sharing my own stories really made me feel like we had a special connection. I have to say that I was touched when I learned that after running away from home and becoming a part of Future Hope, to this day he has not been able to meet his brother. He really misses his brother and I felt my heart sinking, and I thought about my own brother, and how glad I was to have him. It made me really think about the things that we sometimes take for granted, and the lack of appreciation for those things. Different to back home, over here we see the locals taking care of what they have - if you ever find yourself wandering the streets in Kolkata, you'll see many people washing their cars and taxis, cleaning the spaces around them. Most of all, you see the biggest smiles in the world. Although it's said that money can't buy happiness (cliched, I know) but I can see that there is no need for anything like that. Their happiness is around them, and they embrace it so much. Perhaps if we back home did this, simply smiling more, our community will become much more happy and close.
On a side note, I have to say the experience of getting nipple-crippled by a prostitute during a taxi ride is one I definitely won't forget.

Jin