Zatie

I think one of the least talked about aspects of our internship in India is the close partnership that we commit to before understanding the intensity of the time that will be spent together. Before India, we were both keen on understanding as much about the internship and Destiny Reflection as possible. We asked our BAGS friends and co-workers countless questions about what to expect from life in India, expectations at work, of travel, food, safety…you name it – but we never stopped to consider what it would be like to work, live, eat, breathe together, and see each other every day for 4 months. It’s like being in a committed relationship. We even started joking that we’re like newlyweds. And our trip to Kerala was our honeymoon.

Funnily enough, earlier this week Facebook reminded us that it was our one-year friendaversary. This got Katie and I talking about how little we really knew each other before moving to India, but how we always suspected we might get sent together. It’s such a strange thing, to depart on an adventure with someone that you don’t know well but to put so much trust in them as a companion and as the only person around you that understands what you’ve left behind and what you often miss.

Throughout the past couple of months, we’ve gotten to know each other really well. We’ve had to rely on each other, we’ve had to help each other, we’ve needed space from each other, we’ve found our mutual likes and learned a lot from each other’s knowledge. We have certainly become a team. Working together on everything is not always easy - not only are we getting to know each other as roommates and co-workers but we’re also adjusting to a new workspace, culture, climate, and everything else that’s going on around us - all at the same time. It can be overwhelming at times but it is an incredible opportunity for growth and a great lesson in patience and understanding. Without each other it just would not be the same. Together we’re smarter, more adventurous, and more confident.

Through all of it, I think we’re forming a very unique friendship. Katie and I will always share our experiences in India. The stories, the mishaps, the embarrassments, the weirdness, and the laughter. Katie is the only one that will understand everything I’ve learned here and be able to relate in the same way. It’s something we’ll share for the rest of our lives.

Sometimes we wonder if we’ll still want to see each other back home or if we’ll be sick of each other by December. I predict that the two of us will eagerly be seeking out Indian restaurants and spice shops around Vancouver, itching to reminisce about the amazing memories that make up this experience and everything we’ll miss once we’re home. In fact, we’re already planning a road trip together next year. And nothing could have formed that bond better than being here together.

The truth about our evenings in Kolkata...

Just a couple of goofs.