The best way to find yourself, Ghandi is often quoted as saying, is to lose yourself in the service of others. Despite its humble origins, this quote has become a common aphorism, repeated in schools, charities, religious organisations and the pages of dubious self-help books the world over. But what does it really mean to “serve” others?…Continue Reading Learning to Be the Change
Our final week in Chile came around too fast! As we prepared for farewells and did the last few things on our Chilean bucket lists, our group also prepared our final presentations. Wednesday was our final day of the Intercultural Approaches to Public Health programme at UC Chile, and we had the opportunity to share…Continue Reading A Talanoa to Return Home
As I sit here at my desk reflecting on the month that has been, it seems almost impossible to articulate everything I felt, and lived. Yet, although the dust has barely settled on our time in Chile, already I find myself recognising some of the changes that have emerged in my perspective and life since…Continue Reading An ending, of sorts
It was like any other first day. I settled into my seat surrounded by 23 other strangers, each with shy smiles, eager eyes and the awkward conversation starters of “Wait, what was your name again?”. The entrance of our teacher, India, brought with it a burst of life, love, and lots and lots and lots…Continue Reading Lessons from the Classroom of India
Shannon Mihaere. Rangitane O Tamaki Nui-A-Rua. Ngati Porou. Ngai Tai ki Tamaki. Waikato-Tainui. It has been over a week since we landed and crossed the waharoa into Aotearoa. At every turn the month of Kohitātea exceeded my expectations. The manaaki—from our host institution and the New Zealand Embassy in Santiago and from our wonderful Education…Continue Reading The emotions of leaving Chile
Having explored India for practically six weeks, my travels have taken me through the diverse landscapes of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand. With a mere week left, I find myself reflecting heavily on the multitude of experiences and opportunities that I have been blessed with, and the lessons I have…Continue Reading India Unveiled: Essential Travel Tips for an Unforgettable Journey
It’s been a week since we left Santiago, and I’ve felt many different emotions. You would assume a week is enough time to process one’s feelings and return to everyday life, but it is not. I’m feeling blessed, joyful, sad, and overwhelmed, all conflicting emotions to bundle together. I remember writing in my first blog…Continue Reading Agradecida
It doesn’t matter what you wear Or if you shave your hair Take off your shoes and socks Or have special rocks It’s not about the gods Or a particular prayer For I’ve seen men at odds Without taking care Forget about the diet The violence and riots It’s not the cold water Or something…Continue Reading The Art of Simplicity
Wow! Six days left in this beautiful country so rich in vibrancy, culture, and in soulful memories. It feels as though I have been here for a long time but then it also feels as though the time has gone fast. It is an intricate feeling to explain. We have spent the past few days…Continue Reading It’s the Final Countdown
India, with its diverse landscapes and profound spirituality, is indeed a destination where one can truly eat, pray, and love. Through the exploration of diverse flavours, spiritual practices, and moments of love, my journey through India echoes the sentiments of Elizabeth Gilbert’s iconic tale, enriching my own story along the way. Prior to setting foot…Continue Reading Eat, Pray, Love