So when I tell people my name in India, they often pronounce it “Kali”. They keep telling me that it sounds very similar to a popular Hindu goddess and that I remind them of her. When first researching about her, the images are super scary (YIKES!). She is often one of the most misunderstood goddesses. But the more I read about her, the more flattered I am…
Here’s what I found out:
Goddess of death, time, and change
Known for killing demons/ego/evil
Sweet, loving, and overflowing with love
Kindest of all goddesses
Great protector
A creative power
Very compassionate
Divine mother of the universe
Irresistibly attractive
Embodiment of female power
I mean…, What a compliment right!?
When you travel, you discover new cultures, languages, religions, customs, and people. But more importantly, you learn so much more about yourself on your journey. Some things I have learned about myself while in India:
1. I am VERY capable. Because of my Columbus-Chicago flight being cancelled, I ended up flying around the world, going through immigration, and finding my way to the hotel all by myself in a strange county. Super proud of myself. Self doubt is my own worst enemy sometimes…
I will be moving to Mississippi State in two weeks to pursue a lifelong dream of mine of starting my Ph.D. and teaching college geosciences. I needed to be reminded that I CAN do it!
2. I love Indian food and guava juice. Indian food is a very diverse spicy rainbow in my mouth. YUM! And being a very picky eater that doesn’t eat meat, I have had no issues at all.
3. However, …spicy foods make my nose run. It’s been good for the sinuses.
4. I need to improve my hosting skills. I have never felt so welcomed! Every place I visit, I am given gifts and shown hospitality. Ribbons, necklaces made of flowers, hand made bags, pens, hot tea, snacks, bottles of water…
5. I want to see as much of the world as possible. I would hope that this trip is just the beginning of my world travels. To be a difference in the world, you must take the time and energy it takes to understand it.
6. Being out of my comfort zone can be uncomfortable and scary, but it is where real learning takes place.
7. It’s okay to be a dreamer, or a mover and a shaker. Not everyone will agree with you, but as long as I know what I’m doing is right, I’ll be at peace with it.
Karly's Blog 