Kolkata aka Calcutta

Flying into Kolkata I felt an overwhelming sense of joy. As we flew above the city I peered out the airplane window and saw lush green landscape, thousands of palm trees and multiple water areas. This landscape is so different compared to the northern part of India. It was absolutely beautiful.My mind began to race as I realized this is where I was born. This is where my biological ancestors live. My mother and father walked these streets, my sisters and brothers played in these streets and who knows my nieces and nephews are probably roaming these streets as I write this. I don’t really know if I have brothers and sisters but one would imagine so. As we landed I felt a huge wave of emotion crash into me. My eyes filled with tears and my chest became heavy. This is what I have been waiting for. I am finally in the city that I was born in. As we exited the plane there was a sign that said, “welcome to the city of joy”. The humid tropical air hit my skin and the moistness filed my lungs.

As I looked around the airport I started seeing people that had similar features as I. Many might not be aware but the different regions in India yield different facial characteristics and skin tone. Even though I thought coming to India I would be surrounded by people that looked like me, I stand out. People seem to be fascinated by me and everyday multiple people ask if I speak Hindi. They comment on how I look Indian but you can tell by their faces that I am a paradox. I look Indian but do not speak, dress or carry myself like a local. It’s quite funny. Many children will laugh and smile at me. It warms my heart and I enjoy waving back. However, in Kolkata I see my features reflected on the faces of others. Even Michael commented on this.


Driving into town was very picturesque. Among the lushness there were many city components that lined the streets. Kolkata is a large city and we drove past a lot of new construction. We passed malls, schools and many high rise apartments. The traffic is filled with cars and taxis and is just as chaotic if not more as in other areas we have visited.

I am excited beyond words to be here. Tomorrow we will visit the site of the orphanage and nursing home I was kept in while I was here. Then in the afternoon we will pick up our precious daughter. I have unpacked her things and gathered the donations for the orphanage. I have purchased medicine and tomorrow I will buy formula for the children in the orphanage. Our wonderful family and friends have pitched in and donated money to buy these crucial items for the children’s home. I know they will be so blessed to have these basic necessities for their babies. Thank you to alI who helped make this a possibility. I am hopeful that with all that was raised we can provide enough formula to feed all of the children for 6 weeks or more. I am getting excited to finally hold her and I hope she feels safe and loved while in my arms. Much love and blessings to all,

Brie

p.s. I noticed while walking down the street my hair curls and frizzes in the exact same way as the women here,  oh and Indian food in India is amazing