India travel seminar: A dream fulfilled
BY LINDA S. FOX
Day 3 and time is moving at an amazing pace but all were up to the challenge, both figuratively and literally. We rose early at 6 a.m. to catch our bus and then train to Agra. The morning was chilly but later warmed as if it were a day before the beginning of summer. The train ride allowed us to see the span and beauty of India’s countryside but the best was yet to come. We were on our way to visit the TAJ MAHAL!!! If I could insert sound effects a drumroll would occur right now! For me, it was the fulfillment of a childhood dream and an absolute marvel to everyone else.
I recalled sitting in my 4thgrade class as we studied the Seven Wonders of the World including the Taj Mahal. Several years have passed but I continued to imagine its splendor and majesty. However, to be there made it clear that no photo or film could ever adequately display the beautiful artistry, exquisite carvings, and marble inlays, or show the detail and craftsmanship. And… love was the only motive for it all!
Later, Sunil Gupta, our amazing travel agent, and his family graciously received us for lunch. We were heartily welcomed into his beautiful home with manicured gardens and exotic birds sanctuaries. The delicious food was but one more of many genuine demonstrations of Indian hospitality and a homemade cake just for us.
Our day ended with a trip to the Agra Fort, representing the end of the Mughal Dynasty. Amazingly, Shah Jahan’s son imprisoned him there, however, the balconies to his marble and ornately decorated confines were designed to have a perfect sightline to the place the Shah dearly loved, the Taj Mahal. Lastly, we visited a company that specialized in marble inlay and we had the opportunity to visit their expansive showroom and do a little shopping.
It was a full day filled with memories that will last a lifetime.
Linda Fox is a dual degree student (M.Div./ M.A.C.E.) at Union Presbyterian Seminary.
