Food.
It's a universal language right?
A small group and I had the opportunity to take a cooking class with the staff to learn a bit on different types of Indian dishes. Our three day segment consisted of South, North Indian Thali, and concluded with non vegetarian dishes. The cooking included Gobi (my personal favorite!), Egg Bhurji, Mutton Curry, Mango rice, Kosambari, Jamoon, and so much more. They explained to us the different benefits that many of the ingredients hold. How mint is good for a stomach ache with boiling water. How Drumsticks are rich in iron and curry leaves are extremely nourishing for your hair. The staff emphasized that it isn't only about following a recipe but that in cooking in Indian culture is also about having a feel for the food. That using your hand is vital because it is all about using your pressure points to get the feel and correct texture of the dish.
Aside from learning on the health benefits of these dishes, this gave us and opportunity to bond with some of the staff from the clinic. The conversation I had with some of these ladies made me realize my next point.
The staff is such a great example of strong people. Aside from working with us at PHRI from nine a.m to five p.m, they are still responsible in their households. They wake up at six a.m. to prepare breakfast and lunch for their families. They head back to grocery store after work to prepare a fresh dinner (no take-out), and help their kids with their homework. They do not complain. Women that run the world, and us young women are so lucky to learn from that. Aside from these recipes, I'm also taking this concept with me.
