May 24th, 2018
Today was our first real interaction with any of the organizations that we will be spending the next few months with. We visited the all male de-addiction center in Hat, 16km south of Kullu Town. We were initially unsure how we would be received or what to expect from the center, to our delight we welcomed with an extremely positive response. We sat in a classroom with the 63 recovering addicts currently living at the center without too much of a plan as we were invited on short notice. Previous reports had mentioned that successful activities had been puzzles, mind games, etc., however there was a much smaller group at that point. Luckily for us, Becca is particularly musically talented, and I can carry the occasional tune without too much protest. Upon mention of our plans to introduce music and singing into our session, the classroom turned into an open mic for all in attendance. We were greeted with local songs from many of the men, and in return we sang a few songs ourselves. Everyone had a genuinely good time; laughter, encouragement, and general merriment ensued throughout the hour long session. Going forward, it seems after a short discussion with management, music should be our focus with this organization. This seems to be the best way to provide the men here a bit of relief from their strict daily schedule, and will be most beneficial for all.
Today was our first real interaction with any of the organizations that we will be spending the next few months with. We visited the all male de-addiction center in Hat, 16km south of Kullu Town. We were initially unsure how we would be received or what to expect from the center, to our delight we welcomed with an extremely positive response. We sat in a classroom with the 63 recovering addicts currently living at the center without too much of a plan as we were invited on short notice. Previous reports had mentioned that successful activities had been puzzles, mind games, etc., however there was a much smaller group at that point. Luckily for us, Becca is particularly musically talented, and I can carry the occasional tune without too much protest. Upon mention of our plans to introduce music and singing into our session, the classroom turned into an open mic for all in attendance. We were greeted with local songs from many of the men, and in return we sang a few songs ourselves. Everyone had a genuinely good time; laughter, encouragement, and general merriment ensued throughout the hour long session. Going forward, it seems after a short discussion with management, music should be our focus with this organization. This seems to be the best way to provide the men here a bit of relief from their strict daily schedule, and will be most beneficial for all.
Michael
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