Closing Thoughts...

This is Jon Brooks, privileged to be the leader of Team India 2007. I am attempting to wrap up this great trip in words that will do it justice! Our students have done an excellent job of keeping you updated as to the many ministry opportunities as well as the cultural smorgasbourg that was tasted by our team over the past two weeks. As a parent, administrator, pastor, and friend, I am extremely proud of our young men and women. Travis, Justin, Weston, Austin, Brandon, Allyson, Ansley, Samantha, Angele, Alexis, Joelle, and Jillian, know that Mr. Krake, Mrs. Bowen and I are your greatest fans. You will remember this trip as a milestone (Ebanezer Stone) in your life that God used to shape and mold you greatly for His purposes.
On Friday, we left the Palace in Jodhpur and caught the afternoon flight to Delhi on Jet Airways, India's finest airlines. Many of the team ate the in-flight cuisine which of course consisted of curry chicken and an extremely spicy blend of something. This group of students and adults were amazing when it came to sampling the local fare. Veer would of course give his cupbearer approval and then the team would dig right in! I must say that the game of "the first thing I will eat when I arrive in the U.S.A..." became more and more popular as the end of our trip approached. It seems that big fat juicy hamburgers, bar-b-que, and steak seem to be the top of the list. (Interestingly, chicken in ANY form or fashion was not mentioned!) Upon arrival in Delhi, the last day shopping spree commenced. It was downright scary and hilarious to see what used to be mild, self-conscious, non-aggressive human beings turn into bartering fiends! Rupees were flying! Alexis Cochran stole the show when she quietly mugged a street vendor who stalked her for two blocks! He saw an easy sell and loudly proclaimed his "best price" for a bongo drum as 1500 rupees (roughly $35 U.S.). She quietly assured him that she only had 100 rupees and was astonished that he persisted with the sell. In her most stern voice (?????), she would rebuke this poor man over and over again by stating, "I only have 100 rupees left!!" I of course was enjoying the situation immensely and, in my subtle way, egged on the confrontation. Long story shortened, Alexis walks on the bus carrying a drum that she paid 100 rupees (roughly $2.25 U.S.) and a very startled looking vendor made his way down the street, licking his wounds. Vicious I tell you! We completed the mission of spending every rupee in our pockets and celebrated by eating at the T.G.I. Fridays in downtown Delhi. It was as close to American that we have experienced all trip, but still.....chicken! Travis did have the "local" ribs but that was a bit of a stretch for the rest of the group. We are still monitoring his condition and at this time all systems are good to go. One last thing. If you wondered where all of the smokers in America have gone, simply visit the T.G.I.F. in Delhi and your question will be quickly answered. When I asked for the smoked chicken, I had no idea! The Delhi International Airport was our next stop and our young men were champions once more as they struggled with bulging bags and suitcases while navigating through the mass confusion and chaos. Our flight left at 3:05 on Saturday morning. In a bit of a side note, I must say that I kept waiting all trip long to hear our students grip about this or that and I was pleasantly disappointed. We were exhausted from our adventures and yet they patiently dealt with each other as well as others no matter what situations arose. Our team quickly fell asleep on the first leg of the flight to Germany. We all learned to catch sleep whenever and wherever you could. Just ask Veer! Taking advantage of a three hour layover in Frankfurt, many students worked on their studies, teachers worked on their grading, and I was secretly stashing Mrs. Bowen's "favorite" Indian spices in her carry on luggage. Let's just say that when she opens that bag at home, she will get an overwhelming reminder of the smells of India! Sandra, Austin made me do it!!! I would like to remind our parents that your students are surrounded by the finest group of adults that I have ever encountered. The obvious love that these teachers have for our children is so encouraging. God used Glenn and Sandra throughout this trip to inspire, challenge, motivate, and move our students out of their comfort zones. Our students responded and the result was simply amazing. Hearts changed. Destiny's realized. Tears shared. God honored. It is with great joy in my heart that I close this year's India blog. Thank you God for your protection and provision. Thank you Veer and Blessy for partnering with us on this adventure! Thank you Glenn and Sandra for your leadership. Thank you parents for trusting us with your incredible children. Thank you students for being Jesus in India! Till next year, God willing, Jon