Get In Where You Fit In: Experiences on the Streets of Delhi

Week 1: Days 1-7 of Trip

So I’ve been in India for exactly one week now. It seems like much longer because I am learning, experiencing and seeing so much each and every day. My mind is constantly trying to process everything – the customs, the heat, the people, the stares I receive because I look different, the heat, the air, the food, etc. I feel like I’m on a magic carpet ride and I should be singing “A Whole New World” from Aladdin. Life is so different here – not better or worse than the life I’m used to in the States – just different. It is a difference that I am enjoying though and I am looking forward to getting to know India much more intimately over the next nine or so months.

While I am experiencing a lot of different things – what is sticking out the most for me in the beginning of my journey is the driving in India. Now anyone who knows me, knows that one of my favorite things to do is get in the car, put on some good music and drive, drive, drive. Yeah … that won’t be happening in India. I can’t even put my headphones in because I have to be alert at all times – whether riding in a car or simply walking down the street. Simply put, when it comes to the rules of the road here, there are no rules whatsoever. Literally, anything goes when trying to get yourself from Point A to Point B in New Delhi. You simply have to get in where you fit in – and trust me, people find ways to fit in some very tight spots :-)

While lines have been drawn on to the lanes with either yellow or white paint, no one stays in their respective lane. It’s almost like the paint is there just for decoration or some type of art project. People regularly cross over to the other side of the road to pass cars. A stop light in Delhi reminds me very much of the starting line of a foot race – except instead of people, cars, bikes, and motorcycles are crowded together (in no particular order or identifiable pattern) and they each is trying to elbow the others out of the front position. When the light changes to green: hold on for dear life.

If I can be honest, sometimes I miss out on cool sights and buildings because I’m too busy talking to Jesus trying to ensure my safety. I am so serious. But you know, I have actually deepened my relationship with God traveling through Delhi . . . as nervous as I am crossing the street and riding in ‘auto rickshaws,’ I had to remind myself that God is everywhere and even when I am in the middle of a crazy New Delhi street, I am still quite safe in the palm of God’s hands. There’s no need to worry. Earthy danger is everywhere (even in places that we feel comfortable and have naively convinced ourselves are ‘safe’), but I am so glad that I have learned to trust God. Luckily I serve a God who always has his/her eye on me and who never ever sleeps; therefore, I have no need to worry. Of course, I’m always cautious – mama didn’t raise no fool. But who knew I’d find a lesson in faith while driving and walking around India??? Yep, God is indeed everywhere and I’m finding new reasons and ways to praise him/her each and every day.