And I thought living conditions couldn't be worse (3 June)

Haha, as a Singapore, and having my own share of stories on how dilapidated living conditions (in the army are), this has to be a new low (apart from Tiger Hill, nothing could be worse than that). No Wifi, no hot water, no power socket says it all

Alright, enough with the complaints, go back to the start. As I firmly believe, the people on this trip should be nice, and boy was I proven right. A number of them are very seasoned travelers, having led YEPs to other countries etc. Been a great time sharing our experiences and getting to know each other better on our way to Sumanahalli.

The trip to Sumanahalli was without much of a hiccup, though it was a really lengthy journey. As written above, living conditions was below expectations (Jon did say to have zero expectations...and I thought I'm a really easy-going person alr), but it was nothing we wouldn't deal with. Then again, the whole experience is made better by my more musically talented roommates (Jukebox!)

To Sumanahalli on the magic school bus!

Sumanahalli - village of people of good heart

Day 1 started off late with breakfast (I think it was close to 4am by the time we settled down at Sumanahalli), where we were greeted with some authentic indian food (Poori)...grinded rice with flour which tasted great. After breakfast was followed by an inauguration ceremony, which was attended by a couple of MBA students and occupational therapist. The MBA students were fiery to say the least, shooting questions with regards to the financial status of Singapore etc (Yoohoo...finance student here). Then came the inauguration ceremony, where were we given a talk and a presentation by those in charge (Father George etc). The inauguration ceremony was rather unique itself, where they lit up a five sided candles. We were also presented with roses from the occupational therapist (Yay! I seldom receive flowers)

The inauguration ceremony 

So the day consists of visits to the various arms of Sumanahalli, such as the leprosy homes, the school, the HIV home and a vocational training house for street boys. It was great learning how the organisation tried to support themselves through various means and be self-reliant, and how helping others go beyond just provided physical and financial assistance. A larger part goes into inculcating self-worth and reintegration into the society. As Angel puts it, "It is not just about saving lives, but about saving souls". There is something very heartening about 2 HIV patients getting married and starting a family (Sometimes, the risk that you are willing to take can turn something awful into something beautiful)

The leprosy home - Ave Marie

The St Joseph School

Bosco - where they pick up street kids and pass them skills 

Garment factory where self reliance is being promoted

Like the guys here said, diarrhea in India is a given. So most have been complaining about the queasy feeling or the bubbling in the stomach. Not too sure if it's just in the mind, but I do hope that everyone will be safe and healthy. This trip is too awesome for someone to fall sick!

So looking forward to the mural painting tomorrow...though painting is definitely not one of my forte.

Mark!