December 23rd was another busy day. I had a fabulous surprise for me in the morning. At breakfast, Angie presented me with an album containing letters and pictures from all of my friends and family back in the US expressing their thoughts and congratulations for our wedding. I was overwhelmed with the warmth and kindness of so many people who cared about me. It was just what I needed to remember all of the people who are important in my life around the world. I can't imagine any better wedding gift. I was so overjoyed, that I burst into tears at the breakfast table. Abhijeet's mom quickly came over and tried to console me. Angie tried explaining that in US culture, sometimes we cry out of great joy and fulfillment. His mom, however, was just worried that something was wrong, as she explained that in Indian culture crying only means there is a problem.
It was down to the last day and we were still pulling things together for the big December 24th reception. Throughout the whole trip I was amazed by the way that Abhijeet's family seemed cool and relaxed even though some final preparations were still being made in the last days. My overly organized planner self could never be so relaxed or let anything to the last minute. I learned, however, on the last day that being flexible can be a good thing. Leah and Justin arrived on December 23rd and got thrown right into the Indian wedding planning mode. I went to pick them up at the airport with my henna still drying on my arms. With arms outstretched, it was probably very taboo for me to be out like this the day before our reception, but everyone understood that it was important for me to pick up my sister at the airport. As soon as we got back to the house, Leah got to sit back and have the girls start working on the henna on her hands. In the evening, family came over for dinner. A young girl who was learning English in school and was eager to practice with me helped keep me company and relax for the evening.
Abhijeet's mom told them about my album and asked if I would share it with the guests. After I brought it out, I realized that several of the pictures showed me either in short dresses or tank tops that might shock the family. I whispered my concern to Abhijeet and one of the woman who understands English better than I realized said, "No, it's ok!". They were all in awe of the scrapbook and the kindness of my friends. They were also curious about what my life looks like in the US. Even though I was at first concerned about my dress in many of the pictures, I later realized that this was a point of cultural sharing in which they could get a glimpse of my life and friends in the US. Next time I come, I will make sure to bring more pictures and items from my life to share since everyone was genuinely interested and I was also anxious for them to get to know me.
The night did not stop there. As soon as we shared the fact that Leah and Dorothy still needed something to wear to the reception, the women all started giving input about what they should wear, the best place to buy it, and when they should get it. The conversation soon turned into an impromptu shopping trip at about 9:30pm with the goal of purchasing a sari for Leah and Dorothy. A few women went along and ensured that they got good service and the best price. At one point the shop keeper was so determined to sell them a designer sari that he wrapped it around himself for demonstration. All of the women advised Leah to keep looking and eventually they ended the night with great saris for the best price. What better way to bring together women from across the world than with shopping!
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