On this trip, there have been a few places I’ve stayed for long enough to get to know a few people. But now that I’ve been in Shillong, it’s kind of weird how easily I fit in here and feel a bit like “home”…especially when it comes to getting to know people.
Walking down the street, I’ll wave to the shopkeepers and stop to chat with the server from one of the local restaurants. If I don’t have the correct change for something, the man at the store or cyber cafe just waves me off and says to pay later, knowing I’ll be back the next day. The newspaper man knows which papers I buy and has them pulled out by the time I reach him. I can even go to a local event by myself and find someone I know to sit with.
I have to say, it’s comforting but a bit odd to feel so integrated in a society that I still don’t fully understand.
Well, integrated except for that whole first article in the local newspaper about me talking about being an American in Meghalaya. Shortly after that, the office got a call about me to check and see if I was really there. A couple of days later I got a visit by the local police who said I must “not put off” reporting to the foreigners’ office, where I was to register. Who knew there was a foreigners’ office?
Jayna, tell us about the foreigners’ office next. I gotta know what is up with that. You are feeling all at home, then that happens?
I know! Foreigners’ Office? It’s really just a plain old building. But I have to say, when one is in a foreign country and has two uniformed officers walk into a room requesting to speak with you — even though you know they’re coming — is a bit un-settling. They were friendly, though, so all was OK. BUT when I registered, I did get a nifty stamp in my passport to show that I’d reported to the Office. It’s actually kind of cool to be able to show where I was in the country, eh?
i’m glad the officers were nice to you! i wish i could be in india too. i’m going to little india this sunday, i think.
Very interesting post. A little bit confusing, but it still ok Hm….
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