half way home

Friday was half way point for being in India. I guess that feels about right. Time is going quickly, but it doesn't feel like it's slipped by without me noticing. And I'm comfortable with the amount of time left. It doesn't feel too short, or unbearably long. I know as I near the end I'll wish for more time here though.
Yesterday at craft class, we had the kids draw what they want to be when they grow up. One girl drew a math teacher, but it was more to flatter me than because that's actually what she wants to be. The outcome of the assignment was disappointing though. Dreams and ambitions aren't fostered here like they are in America. I really think most of the girls don't aspire to be much more than a mother and a wife. They don't think its possible, and frankly speaking, for most of them it isn't. I can't tell you how much this breaks my heart. Mili, one of the smartest kids I've ever met, drew me. (once again, with the purpose of flattering me) It was sad for me though, because I really do wonder what she wants to be. Or if she even thinks about it. If she were in different circumstances, she could be ANYthing. One girl just copied one of the boy's drawings. The other girls were more original, but I don't think any of them really wanted to be what they drew. They just wanted to finish the assignment. The boys drew a pilot, an astronaut, an artist and a terrorist. The boy who drew a terrorist did it just to get a rise out of us, but I think he really needs some psychological help.Today I spent all day at a big field in Khardah. There were track and field competitions all day. Some of my students competed. Prativa came in second place in a race. Kajal got first in a jump roping race. Piya did a race where she had to balance a pot on her head, but she didn't place. It was really fun to watch though. And, being here is like having celebrity status. I constantly had people coming up to shake my hand or talk to me. Its fun, but it can get tiring. I'm really glad I'm not famous.
Sealdah has been empty of late, due to a festival going on. I'm enjoying the calm, more relaxed sessions though. It can be so intense when everything is in full swing.

~m