Sat Sri Akal my friends. Yes, you may be wondering what these three words mean. Literally, they mean Truth in God. Now, as deep as this already is, these words carry an even greater meaning for me. A greeting in any culture has a story behind it, whether it's a quick wave or a "how are you" that leads to a whole conversation. I carried these words with me when I moved here from India; even though I was only two years old at the time, they are a part of my identity- something I truly did not realize until this past summer.
I’ve been to India every few years in the past, each time soaking in the life, not as an alienated culture forced upon me, but as a comforting journey back home. This past summer I went to India again for a good three weeks; however, unlike trips before, I made this journey by myself. It was astounding to see just how much any country changes when you realize you’re there on your own will and agenda. Coming back to what seemed like the epitome of yuppie town was one of the most discouraging journeys I’ve ever had to take- truly I asked myself if there was anything worth coming back for other than family and friends. So, yes I realize that the streets are too crowded, the bargaining can be endless and the dust at times too unbearable to handle. But how could one possibly overlook the deep spirituality, the feeling of closeness the people you meet for the first time give, or even the great food? No matter where this journey in life takes me, whether its in Catonsville for college or someplace in Europe for a semester, I know I’ll always have home in India.
Even though living in a sheltered suburban area in Ellicott City has transformed my style of greeting with close friends and everyday people, when I come in contact with someone from my own culture, I bring my hands together in the front and say Sat Sri Akal.
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