RFE Outbound 2018 discovers Mumbai, India

by: Rtn. Maxine G.

An ancient Indian proverb says, “Certain things catch your eye, but pursue only those that capture the heart.” We dream about so many things that we forget to prioritize what matters most to us. Being a kid who has always been fascinated by ancient civilizations and world history, I have learned to appreciate their beauty through the words and images of the writers. Setting foot in India was like stepping into a page of history book.

Being a new member inducted only on the 24^th of October 2017, I never really expected that I would be a part of an energetic team of the Rotary Friendship Exchange 3850 with Mumbai District 3141 last Jan. 26 to Feb. 6. With me were highly respectable members who are current and past presidents of the club they represent. Being a few of the most humble people I have met, they have enlightened me with many lessons on how it is like to be a Rotarian who choose to both lead and serve in our own respective communities.

The temples and the busy streets of Mumbai had captivating details that would make you want to go back. We were also able to visit where Ghandi used to live, the Mani Bhavan that is now a museum and a library, and his cremation site, the Raj Ghat in Delhi. A trip to India would not be really worth it without visiting the splendid structure, Taj Mahal. Flying from Mumbai to Delhi and reaching Agra by land was a very enjoyable journey with the whole RFE Team Mumbai.

Our host’s place was really filled with warmth. A home that is almost like a Filipino home where grandparents live with them and a lovely dog.

What a colorful India indeed it was! It has intoxicated my heart with its colors, women in their “colorful sarees, the cows on the streets, and the street foods.

They say that there is always a first time. My first district conference as a Rotarian happened in India while I have not yet attended one in my own country. Such experience was worth like diamonds. We also met fellow RFE Team Members from Israel and The Netherlands at the conference.

I hope that my experience would also inspire more millenials to not just be part of a Rotary Club, but most importantly, to help “Make A Difference”, in the field they choose to excel in, to a home they live in, to a community they interact with, and to himself or herself a promise to serve above oneself.

More than the experience, it was an irreplaceable memory of unbreakable friendships!

You are a priceless memory. Bahut dhanyavaad, India!