I’m just back from India and what a momentous journey it was! I have spent two marvelous weeks in the heart of India, in the Gujarat region, where I was teaching (and learning) at the Indian Institute of Technology of Gandhinagar. It was a wonderful human experience, my first trip to India and the discovery of a new culture and of an old civilization.
Thanks to my friend Atul Singh whose kindness and generosity are heart-warming, I connected to many whose thirst for knowledge and desire to share is spectacular. I interacted with Indians from all backgrounds, communities and religions and I feel enriched. For two weeks, we confronted world perspectives and discussed the dynamics at play on the planet. We shared experiences and converged towards a common vision where cooperation takes precedence over conflict, where dialogue is better than confrontation. Despite cultural differences and complexities, I come back from India with optimism and the sense that humanity can be united and has so much to offer.
The energy and intelligence of the young Indians I met is promising. As I make my way back to the United States, I remember the famous words of the French explorer and writer, Antoine de Saint Exupery:
“If you differ from me, far from diminishing me, you enrich me”.
I am also grateful to Voyaj for introducing me to Atul and for nurturing the sense of common values and the vision of hope. The spirit of Voyaj was present throughout my journey and enlightened my stay. At this stage, I can only look forward to my next… Voyaj!
With Kindness,
Olivier