Preparing For India

After many delays and broken promises, I finally made the decision to return to India, my parents' native country. My flight is booked and paid for, my visa is newly acquired, and I will be visiting the doctor this week to make sure I am protected from any diseases that might come my way. This trip to India is different from previous ones I have had to the country, because this time I will be visiting multiple locations in different states. I have always wanted to attempt something like this, and now my dream to do so is becoming a reality. To say that I am excited is a serious understatement!

At the same time, I am also aware of some problems I may face during my upcoming month in India. First, a month is not long enough to visit all the places I want to see in the country, but the fact that I have this much time to begin with is enough for me. Secondly, I know I may be confronted by family members, who will give me unsolicited advice about my life. My most serious offense is the fact that I am not married yet. I am more than ready to respond to their concerns as kindly and firmly as possible. An unprepared person may get easily upset and defensive; I hope not to fall prey to those emotional traps, but it will be hard at times. Being the better person requires effort, thoughtfulness, and patience, which are qualities that are difficult to maintain. I am also exercising much more regularly in preparation for the trip, but I hope to make this a permanent addition to my daily routine.

When you are looking forward to a major change in your life, how do you prepare for it?