Hey there! Since the last blog so much has happened; it is crazy to think that the last time we talked was only a short two-three days ago. The first full day we were at the Hanifl Center was a pretty relaxed day basically just meeting all the educators and agreeing on expectations for ourselves, each other, our educators, and then theirs for us as well. I really liked this because it took away some anxiety I had. I think this was because we all established what was important to one another and expressed interest in helping not just ourselves obtain that but also each other. After introductions, we did a few leadership activities and everyone’s personalities started to show. It was very clear who was more reserved and who was not; this was interesting to analyze and ponder. Then after some chai and lunch during the afternoon we even got to take a walk near/on campus. It was like a figure 8 loop called “Chakkar” located on the Landour Ridge. I found it really cool to start to see the character of not just India broadly but where we will be training and staying before our long journey in the Himalayas. The social butterfly in me also really enjoyed getting to know the group more — both students and educators.
Yesterday, (I feel crazy saying that day two was only yesterday because it seems like a week ago) was a special day. We began with a hike to a local nature reserve called “Jabbarkhet”. I was really proud of the group. It was not a long hike but defiantly narrow, steep, and new to most people. Personally, I felt great physically which was a nice personal relief as well as a confidence booster. Once we got to the top, we took some pictures (obviously), learned about some history and more culture of India, and partook in a solo. Just to make sure we are on the same page; a solo is when one takes time for themselves with no distractions to reflect. No food, no technology, no other person around, and nothing else that is distracting. It is just the individual, a pencil and journal, and some water. Although writing down my thoughts has been encouraged for me before, this felt different. Although it was uncomfortable at first, once I started, I could not stop. I had so many thoughts, feelings, emotions, and words to get out. It made me realize not only so much about myself and the goals I have, but also that I feel very deep. And with this comes the necessity to get thoughts and feelings out a heck of a lot more often than I currently do. Now although that was magic, the real magic happened when we all came together to discuss what we reflected on. I was so dang proud of the group for not only the detailed reflections, but also choosing to be vulnerable with each other. This is something I struggle with and know everyone else does, so doing this while barley knowing each other was inspiring.
After this, I definitely gained a new respect and perspective for leadership. Leadership is so much more than just guiding people or telling them what to do. It involves vulnerability, listening, courage, and caring about and understanding deeply the people who follow you. The various games we did also made me realize just how important communication is. Especially from someone who has always thought they excelled in this area; I realized I still have a lot of work as communication is not only verbal or in-front of everyone else. Luckily, we were taught how to give and receive feedback so hopefully we will all be able to practice this. I would like to thank Shantanu for being so supportive over the last few days and putting up with our craziness. I feel so blessed to learn from such amazing educators like him.
I am sure as these thoughts marinate and deepen over the next few weeks, I will have more to say. I am also very tired as today was a long day haha. We prepared for the trek and went to Mussoorie. All aspects were exciting, but it was indeed a long day and tomorrow we go to our first overnight trek. I am so freaking excited but also nervous. It is getting late so I will update you all in a few nights! Cheers
Kat Listwak