New Delhi, India

We had begun our descent into Delhi, India. As we touched down, I felt as if I had already traveled a lifetime, and that I was beginning a new journey in my life. I realized, sometimes painfully, that in order to grow we have to come out of our comfort zone. If we are not willing to do that organically, then the universe steps in. I thanked the universe for this opportunity to explore territory outside my comfort zone and rediscover my true alignment with the universe.

We stepped out into the New Delhi evening and there, waiting for us, was our pimped-out ride that looked like taken from Woodstock in the 60s with its rainbow colors painted all over the van. From reds, yellows, blues, greens, and purples, every vibrant color of the rainbow could be seen on that van.

 There were people everywhere: on top of each other, motor scooters weaving in and out of traffic, taxis hooting their horns in madness and desperation because of stalled traffic, and even cows wandering the street at will. Because cows are sacred to Hindus, they have the right of way on roads, trails, and everywhere else. I saw people sleeping on the pavement, their home for the night on this busy, dirty, and crazy road. They had no shelter and no blankets to protect them from the car fumes. People just slept where they could find a spot despite the madness. Maybe you could get used to this craziness and you could ignore what was happening around you and focus your energy inward. I mean, how else could you survive  in a place where so many are looking to work for the same rupee.

We turned into a courtyard that was a complete contrast from the rest of New Delhi. At the door was a Sikh doorman who saluted us as we entered the Taj Palace Hotel. I felt I had entered India during Queen Victoria’s reign, and that didn’t comfort me. It unnerved me. You see, in England we still look at India as subservient, and I did not realize I had that attitude until this moment.