Live @ Lunch

The Indian immersion of 2019 was an eye-opening experience which allowed a group students and staff to travel to a country with an astounding diversity of religions, languages and unique cultures. The society of this incredible country, varied and complex in its rich heritage, is among the oldest in the world. The group of students were lucky enough to visit three diverse cities: the capital of India, New Delhi; Varanasi which is regarded as the spiritual capital of India; and the old capital of India, Kolkata. The trip started in New Delhi. This is where we visited charities, schools and did a slum walk. The charities we met with focused on the empowerment of women, the education of children and giving teenagers a voice to advocate themselves and others. We did what we could to help including going to a protest, helping children in classrooms and by listening to what they had to say. Our visits allowed us to make connections with Edmund Rice schools and develop solidarity with our friends who live ‘beyond borders.’ The cities of India were home to some of the kindest and happiest people I’ve ever seen. While in these cities we were able to visit some amazing people and charities. Although the standard of living is poor, the people were very proud, welcoming and grateful. This was very shocking to see as people in Townsville have a better standard of living but the way we treat our neighbours and those in need is sometimes poor. Apart from going to India just to help in charities and schools, we able lucky enough to indulge ourselves in the incredible places of this beautiful country, including the Taj Mahal and Siddartha, the birthplace of Buddhism.. We were able to learn about several religions including Hinduism, Buddhism and Sikhism. As Mark Twain said, “India is the cradle of the human race, the birthplace of human speech, the mother of history, the grandmother of legend, and the great grandmother of tradition.” It was an amazing experience for all of us to learn more about this incredible place and its people and it has definitely changed all of our lives.

Howard Keyes | Year 10