We should have arrived into Kolkata at 8am on Friday 22nd but it was around 11.30am with Nikon being late for work. The train station is a huge, handsome red building with a very easy walk to the pre-paid taxi rank. Absolute bedlam but I managed to get a lift to the YWCA after an interesting journey across the Howrah bridge and along wide roads and streets - Kolkata resembles a city, unlike Delhi.
At the YWCA, I was shown to a quiet room beside another lady on the ground floor. Off the street, it is arranged around a tennis courtyard and much of the noise is blocked out by trees and private housing. I sorted my belongings, money and passport on my bed anf then went to a cafe around the corner for an expensive brunch. I returned to my room to change and wash and before I headed out to Mother House, I placed most of cash in my suitcase.
I walked (surprise,surprise) to MH on AJC Bose Road, which is located in a pretty poor area of the city. Normally on Friday's the House is open but the nuns had something on this particular afternoon. Sweaty and sweaty, I headed back to Park Street via a church to get some relief from the sun. I washed my clothes and made tea and soup back at my room.
Breakfast is included in the price, simple but fine - 3 slices of bread, butter, jam, a banana, an egg and tea. I headed to MH again which was open but only to look around. The display on Mother Theresa's life is fascinating and it is quite something to look at her sandals, her saree and other personal belongings. The room which holds her tomb is right on the main road so it's noisey but apt for someone who spent her time with these people.
The next registration for volunteers was today, Monday at 3pm but I didn't go due to intention and circumstances. I don't feel I need anymore "tests" before I leave India. Anyway, I purchased a tin of milk powder for a street kid outside the House and had something chucked at me further along the road as I was making my way back to Park Street.
I had a leisurely lunch in my room and was contemplating some more, just a little more, retail therapy, when I decided to check my money which I quickly discovered wasn't there. So, I've broken my wrist for the first time and had a fair amount of money stolen from me for thr first time. I'm not sure when it happened but I feel it may have been on my first day perhaps when I was popping into the loo which is next door...I've had my case open...but someone knew where that money was.
The owners were distressed, especially for the reputation of the place. I couldn't quite understand the security man's interest in this, I have my suspicions...I've managed to withdraw money today but what a pallava it's been. Roll on Friday!
Okay, over and out for another session. Joe, I've managed to get into Typepad with no bother as you will have gathered!
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