Caleb Hope Foundation

“Coming Home” by Melissa Connors

October 14, 2009

Sounds funny right? Home? India? Really? Yes, I have never felt more at home in a foreign country of this magnitude. August 12th marked the day of my second journey to India which I felt a sort of homecoming. Since last year, I have longed to return to India and her people.

On my first day back in India, to my surprise, I was recognized by a few of the girls. They actually remembered me! They even picked up on my haircut. On my previous trip I had already witnessed the generosity of the girls at the Asha Deep Orphanage, but now it included their memories.

My first trip in February of 2008 had been one of shock, tears, but overwhelming gratefulness; a truly humbling experience. My second trip on the other hand, really instilled joy in my heart. The relationships we formed in both the girls and boys homes were astounding. Just being able to sit on the roof past midnight talking with a handful of girls, sharing in their dreams and aspirations was a huge blessing. Everyday, I gave an hour long guitar lesson to some of the older boys which usually ended with endless life questions and stories.

I can’t even begin to tell you how utterly amazing our school for special needs children is. Those kids defy the odds and surprise me everyday.  Their disabilities range from polio, to deafness and mental challenges. Yet from blowing bubbles, to sidewalk chalk designs, to singing songs, there seems to be nothing these kids can’t accomplish. Every experience with all these children has been unbelievable.

A common phase at ADF is “I have 51 sisters and 48 brothers.” ADF has become my hidden family and a part of me will always be in India in the town of Shahid Nagar, at the Asha Deep Foundation.

Following my first trip last year, I got a Hindi tattoo on my left foot. It is the word “Asha” which means “hope”. Every time I look at this tattoo, I am reminded of my friends back at ADF and how they are the hope of India. They inspire me and I walk with hope everyday. I thank Jeremiah for the honor and privilege of serving with him in India once again.