INDIA…MISSION/USA

Linda Mary Liotino

There is so much legal/financial detail in birthing a mission and so it is with P.R.E.C.I.O.U.S.   Missionary work is not easy nor can one just plunge into doing the work on any level without intense thought and the protection of the hearts one is trying to serve.  As soon as the hope becomes apparent to the people that any mission is trying to serve, the mission must not be reckless as to crush that hope in anyway in the hearts of these people; this can be devastating not only to the heart but to the faith of the people whose faith is hanging on by a thread. Therefore, every step that a mission takes must be well thought out, meticulous, and protective of the hearts it is called to serve.  Franco and I believe these words and we move P.R.E.C.I.O.U.S to a foundation of strength, which will not crumble as to crush the hearts/faith of these people.

BACKGROUND:  We made three trips to the Sri Lanka Refugee Camp and it was on the first visit when we reached the camp and before seeing anything as I got out of the car I knew that this is where the calling of God is.  Living the life in a refugee camp is hard in the sense one has no country.  The people in the camp cannot return to their mother country for political reasons and the country that houses them never accepts them as part of their country.  They have very limited movement and their confinement is apparent.  There is no place of hope due to these circumstances and life is just lived on a daily bases basically in a survival mode.   To understand the whys of all this is to know the truth beyond the propaganda; this truth is suppressed and is guarded making the distribution of truth a consequence that one cannot endure or will not help these people presently.           

Fortunately the Sri Lanka Refugee Camp is overseen by the Jesuit Priests and is part of Christ the King Parish whose priest Fr. John Peter not only sees to their spiritual needs but where the children go to school.  The parish a very poor one also serves three villages in total of all 200 plus families including the camp.  The children get a complete meal funded by the India Government at noon however; this may be the only meal they receive for the remainder of their day. 

The villagers are very poor and some who are employed work a full day in the fields twelve hours for just $1.00 a day, however most of the villagers are unemployed.  Those who do work are hunched over in the rice patties for the most part thinning them out this is very laborious work hampered by the hot sun.  They do what they must to survive hoping just to eat not considering nutrition. Christ the King Church has a small dispensary for all the people it serves and one of the three sisters from the convent is in charge of this.  One sister teaches, and one maintains the parish garden that is growing nuts a cash crop in India. 

The people are very friendly and in spite of the language barrier between them and me the universal language of love and genuine hearts supersedes the obvious.  Franco and my heart just cannot but love them and want only the best we can provide for them making their hopes a reality their faith strong. 

LEGAL:  We have to birth a non profit organization P.R.E.C.I.O.U.S in the USA to allow any charitable contributions made to the organization tax deductible.   I am trying to find the most cost efficient way to accomplish this task.  PLEASE IF ANYONE IS KNOWLEDGEABLE IN HOW TO FILE THE PAPERS AND ALL THAT MUST BE DONE TO MAKE P.R.E.C.I.O.US NON PROFIT…I NEED YOUR ASSISTANCE.  Your help will be most appreciative.  I left this as is to let you see the movement of God as of this writing an old friend of mine I contacted has the knowledge and understanding to start a non-profit organization and we are meeting to begin the process.  It is truly amazing to see the move of God kick a mountain out of our way clearing a path for His miracle.      

LAND:  The land we wish to purchase is adjoining Christ the King Church and can be reached by paved road at the East and West end.  The totally acreage for sale is eight.  The owner is willing to allow us to buy it in pieces.  It is our fervent hope to buy 4.5 acres @ $ 37,000 but if we are not able to buy the full 4.5 acres at once we would hope to purchase at least two acres and work our way from there.  The land has a well with spring drinkable water.  The land is very rich and fertile.  This land will have a dairy farm named Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Dairy where the poorest of families according to India standards will have an opportunity to make a living that will bring the necessities needed and dignity to the lives of the families.  Each family will receive two cows from the mission and the milk that comes from these cows will be sent to market and the net amounts received will then pay the expenses/needs of the family.   The cows will be housed in a barn shed on the property sectioned off for the family’s two cows to eat, drink and for milking.  The families will be provided a section of land for gardening and any abundance not able to be consumed by the family will be sold at market with the families getting that additional income.  We will provide a daily visit by the veteran to see to the health of these animals and classes will be given to teach the families on maintaining hygienic care of these animals.  The mission will have at least to start 7-10 cows to provide milk to the convent, rectory, and for each school child a glass in the morning with a biscuit to start their day.  The mission will have a poultry farm along with laying hens and its known garden.       

FIANANCES:  Until we are a non profit organization we must use our resources to begin the mission.  The way we are hoping to generate monies is from Franco’s book 9 TO 90 TICKLERS…JOKES AND CARTOONS FOR ALL AGES.   100% of the proceeds are earmark for the mission and the buying of land to begin.  It is our humble hope that you our friends will buy a book.   The jokes and artwork is original Franco Joseph.  If each friend can get from 5-10 of their friends to buy the book the hope of these family’s prayers will be realized.  I will be holding a book launching in my hometown to promote and sell the book as well.  The book will be available in March. 

BENEFACTORS:  In purchasing the book you are benefactors to a mission with a cause.  This is not just Franco’s and my mission but all that wish to be apart of this birthing.  Whether you can ever come to India, [which we happily encourage] or not you will be a part of birthing of this mission and the people will know of you and your generous hearts of love for their plight.   For those of you wishing to come to India and be apart of the missionary experience will only had to provide for your transportation there and back.  We want you to stay with us on the mission compound free of charge providing for your food and shelter while on the compound.  If you are not able to come to India your help state side will not be dimensioned your efforts are equal to those who can come to India. 

TALENTS:  We seek those with special talents such as needlepoint, sewing,  crocheting, arts and crafts, carpentry, knowledge of farming, computer, typing, and the like to come teach a few of the villagers where they in turn can teach others.  The products from these skills can be sold in the American Market in order to provide an additional income for the families.  The products can be sold at a very reasonable sellable price and this amount will go far in the Indian economy.  I will bring back the products with me that we wish to sell.     

THE MISSION:  P.R.E.C.I.O.U.S is CHRIST CENTERED knowing wholeheartedly THAT ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE WITH HIM.  P.R.E.C.I.O.U.S although a Christian based mission will not discriminate against the needs of anyone because of their creed or religious beliefs.  We are a mission that will help any of God’s people who need our help.

My dear friends it is our hope you will join us in this calling that Our Lord Jesus placed on Franco and my heart…for families to have a better life in hope and trust in what Our Lord will do for them.  Their prayers are being answered and Franco and I are the instruments He is using.  We move in a protective state of their hearts so they do not lose heart.  Our prayers are always that we stay in God’s will in all that He asks of us as He moves us.  You too our dear friends are in our daily prayers as well as in the prayers of the villagers, refugee camp and Christ the King Church.  May God move YOUR heart to the heart of these people.

FINALE THOUGHTS:  I could not do what I do without the expertise, guidance and knowledge that come from my partner/friend Franco.  He stays in the background taking pictures and videos but whose shadow covers me in every step I take; he is the wind beneath my wings…Thank you Lord! 

May the Hearts of Jesus and Mary Bless…YOU!

Copyright 2010 Linda Mary Liotino     

INDIA…BABIES HOME

On December 26, 2009 I was very bless to be able to visit St. Thomas Mount, Chennai where I live. The Franciscan Missionaries of Mary Holy Apostles Convent, where the Sisters and laity oversees to the care of about 55 children from infants to about six years old. The children’s part is called the St. Thomas Mount Babies Home.

The Convent sets high on a hill, where I had a breathtaking panoramic view of the city of Chennai. The first thing I notice was the 800 hundred year old Banyan Tree that is close to the entrance way of the Children’s Home. As I walked from the tree there is a statue of Mother Teresa, continuing the walk around the piazza I came to a statue of Pope John Paul II, which is erected where he stood and bless the multitudes in February 1986 and at the end of the piazza Our Lord Crucified with Mother Mary, St John and St. Martha standing below all painted in gold. There is a medal stand to the right where candles are lit for the prayers ascending to the heart of God. There is a chapel near the convent, where two very holy treasures connecting to the biblical era the first being a stone Bleeding Cross that was carved by St. Thomas himself. The last time the cross bled was 60 years ago. Second an original painting of the Holy Mother of God and her Son by St. Luke, which was bought to India by St. Thomas and then a gold painted statue of the Mother of God sitting and pregnant. There is also a Chapel of Eucharist Adoration and before I could step on the very short walk area to the door an attendant asks me to remove my shoes. Once inside there are no pews one kneels on the white marble floor however there is for those unable to kneel brown wicker stools off to the side. The chapel is elegantly understated so my full attention is focused on the body, soul and divinity of God. In the chapel the very presences of God engulfs my heart and soul His austere presences makes leaving hard. Because it was the Christmas Season there was a life size Naivety Scene. It is so special and spiritual to walk where once one of the Apostles of God St. Thomas walk I am so very blessed to have this beautiful experience.

The St. Thomas Mount Babies Home is off the convent courtyard. There is a receiving room where Franco, his son Mario and I were greeted by Sister Theresa who would be our guide throughout the time with the children. We were taken to a room we could not go in but from the doorway see about ten infants peacefully sleeping in medal cribs oblong and a little larger than a carriage. The second room, which I was permitted to go in, there, was about six sleeping small toddlers also in medal cribs. There were two rooms where we were greeted by children ranging in ages about three to six. The children sang, were very curious and friendly. Franco and I had bought dresses for the girls, shorts and tee shirts for the boys, little infant shorts and shirts for the babies along with baby cereal and formula and yes a bag of lolly pops. I interacted with the children distributing the wrapped gifts and lolly pops with Sister’s help. Franco and Mario were capturing this on video as well as still shots. There was this pleasant symphony of sounds that permeated throughout the room from the children. The last room we visited was the music where five children entertained us with several songs. They played various types of drums and cymbals accompanying musical CD’S. They were just awesome and so talented. Their little faces lit up with smiles and their love of playing was seen in their enthusiasm. Everyday the children are taken outside around 4p.m. to a play area where they can run and play. The play area is equipped with playground equipment and a line of walkers for the toddles that yet have their land legs.

This made our Christmas so special to see the joy of these little angels. We received more than we gave. I received the heart and love of these children Thank you God for this gift on your birthday. Christmas is about celebrating the birth of Jesus and it is a time of children…

May the Hearts of Jesus and Mary Bless…YOU!

Picture #1 Sr. Theresa [all in white] and Me along with another Sister.

Picture #2 The children at St. Thomas Mount Babies Home and Me.

Copyright 2010 Linda Mary Liotino

INDIA.…SPIRITUALITY

Linda Mary Liotino

To write an in depth Blog about the Spirituality of the people of  India  would require more study and observation than my current almost three months here could afford me.  However, as I learn you will learn as we journey the complexities of India.

In case one is not aware of it I am Catholic and from this perspective I make these observations.  In most Catholic Churches at least in the  US there are rows upon rows of pews with usually padded kneelers.  There has been in some churches a more liberal way of entering the church with less reverence and quietness we once knew especially from my youth.  Partly to blame without getting into church politics the moving of the Blessed Sacrament from the center alter to the side of the church or even in a separate room.   This current disrespect trickles down to the actions of our children who imitate the conduct of the adults…OK I AM OFF MY SOAP BOX!

The Catholic Churches in India that I have seen thus far the Blessed Sacrament in the Tabernacle is at the center of the altar.  The first sign of respect shown by many Indians is that they take there sandals off before entering the church.  Secondly, there is a deep reverence given to Our Lord with them bowing from the waist down.  There is no noise coming from chit chatting but one can hear as one walks down the aisle the whispering of prayers and or singing to Our Lord in the native tongue of Tamil.  The children are absolutely quiet and imitate their family members.  The awareness of the austerity of the presences of God even the priest celebrates mass without shoes on.   The kneelers are not padded just plain hard wood in most churches I am told.  The church I attend regularly St. Anthony’s has rows and rows of pews but there is an area before the main alter left open to those who rather sit on the floor then in a pew.  This place is usually occupied by women of all ages.  The music and singing is angelic, very spiritual and even though the mass is in Tamil I cannot help but experience the presence of God.  There is a special mass on Tuesday’s at 11 a.m.  It begins with a rosary led by a lay person in accordance with the choir and music.  Mass begins promptly at eleven and immediately the beauty of the music, singing of the choir and the smell of incenses fills the air, penetrating the heart in the preparation of entering into the presence of the Lord.  The beautiful prayers bring one to a sweet contemplation and meditation of His Holy Presence.  After Mass has ended there begins the Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament a time of praise, worship and adoration of Our Blessed Lord.  The Blessed Sacrament is carried throughout the church by the priest with two candle bearers before him.  The next to follow is the blessing of the people with holy water ending with the priest touching each person with his stole to their forehead as he prays silently.

At the Shine of Our Lady of Good Health, Vailankanni there is a change in the seating at the shrine.  There are only four wooden pews in the back of the church on either side of the aisle for the elderly or perhaps disable who other wise cannot sit/kneel easily on the floor.  The church accommodates two thousand people.  The sitting/kneeling on the floor is a sign of deep respect and reverence to Our Blessed Lord.  It is well to note that the statue of Our Lady of Health is situated high above the altar honoring her visitation to Vailankanni and the miracles thereof.  She is honored by Christians, Muslims and Hindus alike.  

India has many religious denominations: Hindu, Muslims, Christians, Sikes, Jain, Buddhist, Jewish, and Bhais.  The neighborhood I live in is mostly Hindu with some Muslims and Christians and everyone coexists in peace and harmony.  I am the only Caucasian/American in the neighborhood.  Reality is I am not located near the US Embassy as most Americans are.  Although protected by the US Embassy my living out of the “compound” or “designated” area if you will I am considered out of their reach in case of any problems in essence there are no guarantees.   However, with this being said I am very safe and feel very safe nothing thus far has even come anywhere remotely close to indicate I would be in harms way.  The neighbor across the way from my home saw me sitting in the foyer one morning while I was praying and came over and bought me some sweets.  Although she spoke Tamil and I English the jesters of welcoming and smiles translated the beautiful moment between us.

To touch a little on Advent/Christmas Celebration in India first Advent is a time of prayer there is no 30 some odd days of Christmas Shopping for most Indians in preparation of Christmas.  Decorating is done about a week before Christmas.  There is no great importance put on the Christmas tree, presents under the tree and this also holds true for most Indians.  Christmas is one day celebrated in prayer, church service and if one is Catholic Midnight Mass.  The day may include visit to or from family and friends perhaps lunch together, which includes sweets that may have been bought to the home from the ones visiting.  The bottom line in most homes there are no bunch of gifts to be opened.   The center of Christmas is the celebration of the Birth of Christ.

It is well to note in India that any religious festival no matter the denomination begins with a time of prayer and preparation before the day of the actual festival.       

May the Hearts of Jesus and Mary Bless…YOU!

Copyright 2009 Linda Mary Liotino…

INDIA…MONSOONS 2009
Current mood:  happy
Category: Travel and Places

INDIA…MONSOONS 2009

Linda Mary Liotino

Monsoons are coming to an end soon in spite of the clouds being stubborn about leaving due to the sleeping winds that refuse to blow them away.  Fortunately for me I did not have any tasks that required me to stick my nose out the door during the heavy rains.  However, the daily life of an Indian does not give them this same option life has to go on as per usual.  The Indian people who I observe are truly amazing on the handling of life’s difficulties.  They seem to have a resolve and when you look at their faces there are not deep frown lines that usually go with the face of discontent or being depressed from going through difficulties such as Monsoons.  They age gracefully a lot better than those of us with every modern gadget at hand and yet continually in a state of discontent or depression.  

In the Indian Culture shopping for the day’s meals is done daily.  There is no weekly shopping of meats, fruits, vegetables or any other perishable item.  Even bread is bought on as need bases and nothing goes into the freezer but the meat for the day, which is usually chicken.  This way of shopping requires a family member to go to one of the many little shops in the neighborhood, where you can buy just about anything for daily living and the Monsoons do not hinder this.  Dry goods are bought usually on monthly bases.  I found it interesting that milk, oil and salt [to name a few] come in sealed plastic bags.  Eggs are sold individually and wrapped in newspaper as well as things bought at the medical store etc etc.  Rice is sold by the kilo and put in plastic bag as well as sugar.   

I can see from the entrance foyer brightly dressed Indian woman wearing their Saree, with beautifully groomed hair, carrying a colorful umbrella, walking either by themselves or with family and friends chatting.  Whether these women are with someone or not their faces look serene and peaceful as they go about their daily way of life.   

The men are also of the same mindset it would seem by my observation as they walk or ride a two wheeled bike motorized or not.  They too wear colorful traditional Southern India clothing called a Lungi.  It is long and wraps at the waste and is folded down a couple of times to secure it.  The Lungi is ankle length.  The Lungi can be folded upwards in half to knee length and secure loosely in the front.  This halving of the Lungi makes riding any type bike easier, for walking and it keeps it from getting dirty when it rains.  Some men where shorts under the Lungi some wear it a little shorter.  Any shirt one would wear with slacks or jeans is worn with a Lungi.  The tradition of wearing a Lungi is worn by Indian men of all ages.  

One of the milder times of the Monsoon I was observing the neighbors getting to the neighborhood shops before the heavier rains began again and I saw this Kodak moment.   There where two elderly couples on a bike the husband I’ll assume was pedaling while a rather petite woman in a bright red pattern Saree rode on the back of the bike.  As the man held on to the handle bar with his right hand as he pedaled he was holding a black umbrella over his wife and himself with left hand.  The couple look so very precious and man was very gallant it is apparent shivery is alive and well at least with this Indian man.

The children do allot of praying during the Monsoon season for if the rains flood the streets or the rain is heavy and continuous the children get time off from school.  If other households are anything like the Joseph home there may be a teenager somewhat like Mario Joseph who is glued to the local Chennai news looking to see if the school is closed.  As he waits for the hopeful announcement of a school closing he watches the moment to moment happenings of the weather satellite on the internet as he tries to convince his father as well as himself that the clouds are moving in the direction that will make a school closing a reality.     

As I have stated in earlier Blogs the Chennai traffic is a mess on a good day and a dreaded trip into the city because of it.  The Monsoons only make matters worse.  The water is traveled through on any type of vehicle provided the grill of the car is not submerged or the exhaust pipe on a motor bike.  Once the water is too high this requires a diverting of the traffic and guess what this adds to the mess the city is already in…need I say more.  The city is a sea of colorful umbrellas as the pedestrians walk about taking care of their business.  

On the outskirts of Chennai one can see the thatched roof homes of the Nomadic Tribe People covered with blue plastic tarp to keep the rain out.  These thatched roof homes are dilapidated and practically falling down.  A picture also appeared in the Hindi News showing a family sitting in their dwelling on chairs with water up to knees.  The children sat in children size plastic chairs near a table.    

Today we had some short heavy rainfall with thunder and lighting and intermittent sunshine. India I cannot imagine anything drawing me away from her…She and her people sing to my heart.

May the Hearts of Jesus and Mary Bless You.

Copyright 2009 Linda Mary Liotino 

INDIA…TWO MONTHS

Linda Mary Liotino

It is my two month anniversary in India on the 7^th of November.  The heart who boarded the plane in Newark, New Jersey with visions and I can do got her ears got pinned back.  You CANNOT enter a foreign country whose culture is so different than we are use too, roll up your sleeves and say I have arrived bring me to the children and poor I am ready to get started.  These two months has afforded me a REALITY CHECK. 

First, I have yet to get use to some foods and spices your response would be not to eat what I do not like however, I cannot do that.  When you work with the poor and they invite you into their home one cannot say I do not like something.  Secondly, I must get use to eating true authentic Indian food and not that which we get in the USA which is geared to the American palate. 

The Indian diet is rice based and very high in carbohydrates it is eaten with the right hand.  A spoon is used for soups and the like and on occasional a fork is used.  Actually, so far there is only one dish served when I use the fork.  Why the right hand because the left hand is used for washing all body parts therefore, one does not use the left hand to eat with.  The left hand rest on the lap and is used for pouring and or to pass something.  Every meat side dish is cut from the butcher in bite size pieces for cooking and eating.  The food is served in albumin size single layer cake pan…My best description.   The food is cooked on a gas portable two range cook top that sits on the counter and is fueled by a propane tank.   Any roasting to be done is done in a microwave and the rice is cooked in a pressure cooker.  The plates are fixed by the cook and served individually.  The generous serving of rice is served with any one of the different curries and a side usually chicken served in various mouthwatering ways.  Unless a Hindu or Vegetarian one can enjoy a beef side.  The food is very spicy and hot chilies are used in all the dishes.

The state I live in is Tamilnad and Tamil is the regional language. I have to be able to speak the language reasonable well in order to communicate with the people who live in the villages.  The people of the poor villages often seek from the educated a voice to advocate on their behalf.  Once the villagers get to know you in trust they seek constant help and the lines of need grows daily. 

Working with children is also a fine line to walk not every child on the streets are street children but one who may have gotten separated from their family and is now lost.  They are given safe havens until the parents and child is united.  The children on the streets are controlled by “mafia” who use the children to make money for them.  The child receives hardly any part of the money that is bought in.  Rescuing these children is an act of futility since they are so dependent on these groups of criminals they know no other way of life and often times run back to it.  You cannot on your own start something to protect the children without knowing the laws of India in this area.  Working with other established organizations and religious groups can afford one to volunteer, learn the ropes and or support a child by developing a trust for their education and care.

Lastly, for the purpose of this Blog one has to see the surroundings and conditions that one must be ready to live and work in.  One has to put aside life as one lives it, get down to the bare basics and be prepared to live another cultures bare basics something you know nothing about.  I will elaborate more on this in another Blog.

In spite of the difficulties, the cultural shock and anything else…I sill care for the oppressed and enslaved children this has not diminished for me one iota.  I want God to use me where I am needed in what capacity is His will.  Am I sent by Him yes I believe this with all my heart because of how this all fell into place for me to get here.  I am at times called a saint by some of you I AM NOT I am weak, with my frailties, insecurities and temptations however, I NEED your prayers and continual words of encouragement but mostly your love and support.  Some of you I can run to for a prayer when I am in need and I am assured the prayer warrior in you is storming the gates of heaven for me.

I end this Blog with this some of you expressed a desire to come to India to help during a vacation period.  I would suggest before spending the money to come allow time for me to be steady foot in India and have all in place so that you can be of service, a place for you to stay, looking to your basic needs.  In the mean time save your money and learn all you can about India.  

May the Hearts of Jesus and Mary Bless YOU! 

Copyright 2009 Linda Mary Liotino

INDIA…ONE MONTH

Linda Mary Liotino

I left for India exactly one month ago on September 6^th.  My one month evaluation is in a nut shell I love India and I am very happy.   Although the life here is so different then I am currently use too I would not trade my life in the USA for this journey and experience.  India is in a time warp of my youth in the 1950’s early 1960’s however with that being said modern technology is prevalent in the time warp.   Surprising the old and new co- exists in balance without apparent conflict a perfect marriage and meshing of both times.  Life is hard and outer conditions which, I will address in depth in all my writings fight one at every turn however, as I have before life goes on in spite of them.  In order to be one who wants to live here coming from a totally different culture one must be willing to carry the crosses in joy/in struggle and whose passion/will to live in India supersedes all the obstacles one has to encounter and so it is with me.

Expanding on life in my neighborhood where I live and to give you a true sense of life here among most Indians throughout ….India…. I touch on these aspects.  Clothes are washed by hand by many in large plastic tubs in the backyard and yes the clothes are beat on a cement section or rock in the yard.  This is a daily routine of washing clothes filling three lines everyday is done early morning without skipping a beat.  The face of the woman hard at work in this laborious task shows no signs of disdain, strain or anger she just precedes with the task at hand.    

The child is often times bathe in a large plastic tub outside every morning.  The child is given time to play with toys in the water before the mother bathes the child.  After drying the child the child is taken inside and dressed in fresh clean clothes.

Water is from a well and although there is a plastic water tower on each homes roof top the conservation of water is taken seriously.  There is no running water randomly to rinse a dish, to let it run while cleaning the counters or whatever one does as the water is left running.  The water tank is check to see that water level is maintained scheduling the time and amount of time the pump must be turned on to meet the families needs.  Nothing is taken for granted everything is calculated to make sure it serves its purpose.  That is why clothes are washed outside the water is taken from the in ground well in every back yard and also the dirty dishes from meals eaten are at times taken outside and also washed from the water pulled up from said well.   These practices vary but the bottom line conserving water is of the utmost importance.  

The conservation of water knows no luxury.  There is no wasting of water as to run for showers for two reasons the one stated above and the water having so much salt clogs the shower head.  This I am saying lends one to the common sense there is no filling up a bathtub to take a long luxurious soaking bath with water jets going for anyone.   Therefore, how does one bath in India for the most part.  Each bathroom is one shower room with a drain, small step up to the toilet part and the sink is outside to allow one to wash their face and hands while the bathroom is being occupied.  One bathes with a tub NOT in the tub.  A large plastic tub is filled with water and each tub has a liter size or little bigger plastic pitcher.  One stands and takes the pitchers of water and wets the body well, washes with bar soap, and rinses in the same manner.  One only uses the water in the tub needed to get the job done leaving the clean water left in the tub which is never dirtied for the next person to start their bath with them adding additional water as needed.  

I conclude this Blog with this final detail about the bathroom.  The toilet is an Indian toilet it is flushed to the floor and one squats down and uses it.  Each time it is used one wash themselves there is no using of toilet tissue.  There is a large bucket by the toilet, which also has a plastic pitcher for washing and flushing the toilet by dumping water down it.  A western bathroom [the bathroom we are most use to] may co-exist in a home with the Indian bathroom if one is elderly or ill.  Do to my lack of agility to squat an adjustment was made to accommodate my long lost squatting days and enough said on this [smile].

There is so much to write about India in a one hour time riding in a car one could easily write 100 Blogs on the many aspects of life in India.  Until next week May the Hearts of Jesus and Mary Bless You!.

10/6/09

Copyright 2009 Linda Mary Liotino

MY INDIA …THIRD WEEK

Linda Mary Liotino

My third week in India is dotted with learning more about my adopted country and experiencing the daily life.  Daily life is not easy and one has to either love India as to not allow the difficulties to overcome the spirit.   There are no air conditioners running 24/7, swimming pools, and a constant reliable electrical power service in the daily lives of most Indians.  The heat fights you on every corner of the day and one must get use to sweating, feeling sticky, your energy level being at 50% and fighting the urge to nap the day away.  Surprisingly, the Indian people go through their daily life as seemly effortlessly with this is life, life goes on, life is lived.  Many Indians live together with several generations in one room where socialization, cooking and sleeping takes place.  Without even being in contact with a family that lives under these conditions one would be hard pressed to not fully understand what this entails considering the life of one in India.   However, like in all cultures there are times of discontent and the voice can be heard from one who is in this state.  What I found interesting was the only voice you hear is the one in discontent there are no exchange of words.  It appears the one in discontent holds sway over those whom the words are being directed towards.   Although I cannot understand what is being said the raising levels of the voice and the manner the words are being delivered gives credence to something is up. 

With the several generations living together a child of a parent no matter the age is still a child and is spoken to in this matter.  For example a father was upset how his 35 year old son spent monies and although the son work for this money could not be heard saying one word in his defense from the tyrannical words of the father who believes once a child always a child.   

Directly below my bedroom window up against the house is a thatched roof dwelling, which I assumed because of its size 12×12 that tools or something was being stored there.  I was shock to find out a 70+ year old man lived there who still had to go to work everyday.  What led to this man’s living conditions can only be imagined ranging from mismanaging his future in his youth for living for the moment to some detachment from his family either by his own actions or the actions of another.  My disconnection to what goes on below my window is the fact the thatched roof attracts every insect known to Southern India where residence is taken up making my being able to keep the window open impossible. 

Chennai is gearing up for the Monsoon Season, which begins at the beginning of October and although I will take you on this journey when I go through it I mentioned these brief facts.  First the electric company is going around checking telephone poles to be sure they are secured well as not to collapse when the ground becomes soft from the rains.  Two the different lakes around the city are being dug to be made deeper to hold the additional water from the rains.  Third in case of flooding there is a drainage hole behind the TV in the living room of our home to allow for drainage if flooding occurs.

Also in October is a Hindi Festival the Burning of the Garbage even though I have some idea what this entails I will leave you wondering until the next Blog. 

As I bring this Blog to a close I have witnessed a down pouring of rain seen as a prelude to the Monsoons to come.  Although the storm lasted only about thirty minutes the electricity failed twice.  The rain and winds afforded us cool refreshing breeze of shorten comfort. 

I leave you with this imagine Mario in the dinning room at the table writing, Franco in the living room sketching and me as always at my computer.

May the Hearts of Jesus and Mary Bless You. 

Copyright 2009 Linda Mary Liotino

9/27/09 

INDIA MY HOME/MY NEIGHBORHOOD

Linda Mary Liotino

I live in the home of Franco Joseph and his son Mario who is 17 years old.  The first thing you are aware of as you enter the modest home is it is dedicated to God.  The center of the home the living room has a alter dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, St. Anthony, honoring the Mother of God, and St. Joseph.  There is also a homemade Grotto for Our Lady of the Rosary made by Franco, a Crucifix, bible and several prayer books.  I bought with me two status of Mama one Our Lady of Mt Carmel and Immaculate Heart of Mama, which are now apart of the family alter.  I have a small private alter in my room, where I can pray quietly by myself, which has my crucifix, Liturgy of Hours and a bless picture of Mama given to me by Franco, my dear St. Theresa and a painting of Our Lord’s face done by my friend in Canada.  There is a peace that is prevalent in our home and the presences of Our Lord is felt for the home was bless by the local priest several months ago. 
The kitchen is Franco’s sole domain where he prepares all the meals and makes tea, which is served three to four times a day.  The food is rice based with side dishes of meat, eggs, variety of sauces for the rice and dipping.  Spices are central to the cooking of Indian food.  I not being use to the spices especially curry sent my tummy to flip flops for several days and I basically ate soup and rice.  I am now gradually incorporating the spices into my diet in small doses and I am finally tolerating it well.
My new home is full of life, love, laughter, and joy.  With a teenager in the home music is playing or the game system on, or the watching of sports especially Cricket, which at the present India is doing well however, I wish I could say I have a understanding of the game.  Mario is a very bright with a joyful and loving heart.  He has a great sense of humor and we are getting to know one another.  Father and son who have been bachelors for some six years since the passing of Franco’s wife and Mario’s mother have a a bond of shared love, mutual respect and playfulness between them both.  It is beautiful to witness this relationship of a father and son a blessing for me.
Outside the home are steps leading to a roof top terrace.  It is there I can get a panoramic view of the neighborhood.  Every morning weather permitting I walk around for an hour while Mario sleeps and Franco is off on his jog.  It is at this time I hear the music of praise coming from the Hindu Temple and the chiming of bells calling one to prayer.  Indian woman are up early and the first thing they can be seen doing is cleaning the front walk of their home sweeping and washing it this signifies that there is someone living in that particular house.  If the home is a Hindu home a drawing is also on the walkway.
Although the temperatures are in the mid nineties for the most part I am tolerating the heat surprisingly well.  However, with that being said the too often electrical outages can be not only be a nuisance but also make one feel miserable.  Living in a totally different country and culture is not an easy undertaking.  To be honest I thought the transition would just fall into place with little or no effort on my part it was/is an unrealistic ideology.  I have allot to learn and it is only by putting one foot in front of another daily taking those baby steps slowly and assuredly will I be ready to be an instrument God can use.  I liken what is happening to this anyone can buy an apple and eat it but it is when one is required to climb the tree to pluck the apple then one truly understands the climb is not easy with pitfalls hampering the climb to pluck the apple.  It is the same for me on this journey the road is neither smooth or straight but I am willing to go through the hardships to be God’s instrument.  I must make it clear that I am in a learning process and getting use too everything.  The dynamics and complications to helping the children is far stretching and it is not easy to just say that I want to scoop up [rescue children].  This subject will be covered in depth in another Blog.
India is like any another country with all its beauty in all its faults.  I have learned one cannot look at things in half truths because it is only in living can one experience reality.  I am secure in my decision to come to India and I want to see this journey to its end.
If I am to leave you with one thought whatever undertaking you are willing to take be prepared know as much as you can about that which you seek to do then do it remembering that the decision comes with a price and the price may be death and are you willing to pay the price.
May the Heart of Jesus and Mary Bless You!                

Copyright 2009 Linda Mary Liotino

9/17/09

INDIA…THE ARRIVAL

Series of Blogs on the First Week

Linda Mary Liotino

I arrived in Mumbai, India from Newark, NJ a half hour earlier then scheduled.  The first thing that struck me was the almost dead activity at the airport for such a large city of Mumbai and the next observation was at every station of clearance everyone had surgical masks on due to the swine flu.  Anyone with a cold had to submit to a blood test before gaining entry into India.
I was assisted by a sky cap with the luggage as I finally entered the place where family and friends wait for arrival of love ones.  The minute I came to the common area to my left in the front corner I saw Franco who was smiling from ear to ear.  As he came over to me in his hand was a beautiful flower arrangement of purple baby lilies and baby white gladiolas.   The ease of the first face to face meeting was just a part of the formality that culminated nine months of communication.
The cab ride to the hotel was an experience.  There are driving laws in India I am told but with that being said it is a chaotic at best.  The first rule of thumb is to drive with at least one thumb on the horn and believe me that horn is used constantly.  The traffic moves slowly with a constant weaving in and out of cars, scooters, motor bikes and bicycles.  Often times there are no lane indicators, which lends to five or six make shift lanes created by the drivers.  Surprising the Indian drivers take this all in stride, there is no cursing, yelling or obscene hand jester.  I did comment to Franco that this type of driving in the USA would cause a road rage reaction that could become volatile.
We arrived at the hotel I was hungry and tired.  It was here I had my first taste of Indian food the spices are geared to the tourist and dotted with some European cuisine such as a continental breakfast.  The services was exceptional and I was assisted every where I went through out the hotel.  A girl would be happy to have one man open the car door and assisted in and out I was surrounded by at least four.  I was to learn later that the hotel owner is an old friend of Franco’s  therefore, even in India it is not what you know but who you know!
The following morning it being the birthday of the Mother of God we went to Mount Mary for the mass.   The day is celebrated with a festival honoring the Mother of God.  Unfortunately due to our time constants we were not able to participate in them but before we left the flowers Franco gave me I left them at the church where they were put at the foot of the alter my birthday gift to Mama.
We left Mumbai at 2p.m. for the train ride home to Chennai.  The train trip gave a photo snap shot of India in all here beauty and poverty.  There was a place we passed that was a hovel of poverty and yet the disturbing bleakness of this was brighten by the beautiful colors of dress of the Indian woman.  The contrast was starling.  The train passed though farms, mountainous areas,  the jungle where I could see the different villages.  Each village has its own church depending on the domination of the village.  Some villages are in remote areas where one needs to walk into the village or hire a donkey and cart for transportation.  I will elaborate in future Blogs on village life when Franco takes me to visit them.
During the train ride, which stop at every station between Mumbai and Chennai there is a flow of vendors selling everything from coffee, tea, homemade foods, reading materials, and yes even snacks including ice cream.  These vendors some are independent of one another and the train company.  The ones associated with the train company have badges.
The rocking of the train made for lulling one off to sleep although the mattress was hard and the space very confining.
We arrived in Chennai on Wednesday September 9th around 6 p.m.
May the Heart of Jesus and Mary Bless You!

Copyright 2009 Linda Mary Liotino

9/13/09

I AM IN INDIA
Linda Mary Liotino

I arrived in India on time and the plane trip was almost flawless.  I hardly got any sleep the excitement of it all prevented that from happening.  I found the missing glove that I sough to fit my hand in this life.  India is the perfect fit and where I should be I am home.  Even the littlest concerns have not even come into play…I am adjusting very well to everything as it comes along…The blessings and graces of God how AWESOME!
Franco and I first meeting face to face was done with ease!  It is a remarkable transition liken to that we have known each other all our lives.  The train trip capsulized the many facets of India and at a future date I will begin to write about them all.
I Love My India…The people in my limited contact are beautiful, caring, and extend a hand of assistance with ease/grace without hesitation.  The children beautiful, smiling with eyes that reflect love and joy and at times clouded in pain/suffering/need.
I know this hardly touches the journey of the last five days, please forgive me I am still trying to catch the sleep I lost.
I love you all…For the prayer intentions sent to me I continue to pray for them and will do so until all are answered.  Comments are on hold until I get my computer, which will be hopefully within a week or so.  Thank you for the comments already received they bring me such joy.
OK my eyes are tired already and it is only morning here.  You all are 12 hours behind me.  It is already Thursday here.  God Bless!      

Copyright 2009 Linda Mary Liotino

9/8/09