This is Swat-na. But it really isn´t really her name - although I thought it was for almost the entire trip.
Upon arriving at the hotel, our group leader informed me that I would be accompanying another wife during the days our husbands were in session.
"What´s her name?" I asked.
"Swarna," he replied. But I didn´t hear him well and I registered her name into my memory as Swat-na. Kinda like the American SWAT team, but with a NA at the end. Easy-peasy!
He went on to inform me that she and her husband work with the Leprosy Mission in India, they themselves also being Indian. As would be repeatedly and grossly evident in this trip, my innocently American-biased mind drew the conclusion that this woman would be a "typical" Indian woman. Typical? As in a subdued, introverted, shy personality. Someone who would shy to confrontation or sharing any personal opinion. Right then and there I decided that I would bring her under my wing and show her a good time. I even took time in my evening and morning prayers to ask God for the words that I might need to keep up a conversation with the (bland) person Id been paired with for the next several days. In retrospect, I think at this point I can hear God giggling.
The first morning we were introduced, I saw her sitting on a sofa in the Lounge. She was of dark complexion, with even darker hair and eyes which seemed to magically gleam under the skylights of the room. She sat straight, holding herself upright with dignity and purpose. I knew immediately that I had made a terrible miscalculation in my psychological profile of her. She then looked up at me and her gaze was familiar. It was as though Id always known her. I returned her smile and took my place with her, along with two other women who would serve as our guides.
The activities which ensued were indescribable. Aside from all the historically significant places that we visited, time was also spent getting to know each other. I learned that she loves Christmas and every minute detail invested in its presentation. I learned she has two older daughters, of whom she is terribly proud. I learned she teaches English in her country and is a spectacular teacher. I learned that she is creative, witty and charming. I learned that her husband is a doctor, a surgeon who works with people with and affected by leprosy. He is also a miracle maker, because he can return range of motion (among so many other benefits) to patients who have long lost all hope. I learn that we are kindred spirits who enjoy enjoying life.
I am grateful that God guided our lives to encounter each other. Among us Mennonites, the term "Global Family" is commonly used. It´s so true. Swarna Joshua lives a world away from my world, yet we connected somewhere in between and were able to share significant moments which will forever be imprinted in my memories of my visit to Ireland. She is family now - a soul sister.
