Small World

July 20 2006

Who knew that I would be traveling to Asia for the first time with personal connections before I ever boarded the plane to begin my journey! People have always said that this is a small world we live in. But the fascinating part is, that this world only gets smaller the further you venture out in it.

Part 1 of my story: When I was studying in England, I met an awesome guy –Jeff, who I dearly love now!! He traveled to Nepal last year devoting his time to the thousands of street kids in Kathmandu. He helped me out before I made my finally decision to come to Nepal. He is one of those worldly guys who is completely fascinating to sit down and listen to. He knows the only Nepali family living in Newfoundland and he introduced me to them. I celebrated the 2063 Nepalese New Year with them back in April of this year. Since then, I have made friends with Anoop who left Nepal to live in St. John’s this past January. This is where the small world part comes in to play. Anoop still has a younger brother living in Kathmandu who I have already met! And I hope to meet the rest of his family before I return to Canada. So, the story continues. Jeff came to Kathmandu last summer, before Anoop even moved to NL. The Nepalese family who lives in NL is related to Anoop and they hooked Jeff up to meet him before he left for Nepal!!! So, Jeff knew Anoop before he ever moved to NL and he also met his entire family while in Kathmandu!! I think it is so cool. I was so surprised when I first heard it all.

Part 2: I met a friend, Lesleigh, first year MUN who I still run into on campus quite frequently. When I was first thinking of coming to Nepal I ran into her and told her all about my plan. She was psyched for me because she had already spent years in Asia in which she lived for several months in Kathmandu. We lost touch during final exams and our last conversation left her thinking that I was not coming to Nepal. I was back and forth for a while deciding whether or not I should come due to the political situation over here. I have been in contact with Lesleigh since I have been here. She has suggested that I go to this great little restaurant she always went to, New Orleans, and meet her good friend, Sudesh. Coincidently, Sudesh knows my in country coordinator and all of the volunteers that were already here with Volunteer Abroad. They go to New Orleans every Sunday night to listen to live music. So, previous to Lesleigh’s recommendations, I already knew Sudesh! Small world? I cannot disagree!

I have to say, talking to people who already traveled throughout Nepal had a huge impact on my decision to finally come here. I thank all three of you for the encouragement! I wouldn’t change this opportunity for the world.

P.S. Congratulations to Anoop, Jeff and Lesleigh to making it to my blogspot! Haha.