Day 9-13 (Sonny"There are no Accidents"
While on BART en route to SFO, we came across a guy named Eddie. We shared a few laughs and he was intrigued at the fact that we were taking a rickshaw through India. Brian handed him $20, the only cash he had, so he could get a bus home to the Vallejo area, and in return he gave us a book titled "Mental Health and Nutrition." This couldn't just be coincidence that the one man to talk to us on the BART that night gave us a book on a subject of our interest. As he left, we said, "We hope we dont have any accidents on our trip."
He responded, "You know there is a Buddhist saying 'There are no accidents.'"
I wrote it down in my journal, but not really taking it to heart. But after our Buddhist "pilgrimage" through Nepal and India, things were relatively smooth sailing. Then we got into an accident. Or maybe it happened for a reason.
It was scary. The most scared I've ever felt. Our Rickshaw skid on its right side for a good 100m and my heart was racing. After seeing some gruesome wounds on my right leg and arm, I freaked out. I kept hoping that I wouldn't need an amputation simultaneously with thoughts of how thankful I was to be alive. I don't want to gross all of you out with details of the wounds, but if you are curious, I do have pictures.
Anyways, as from the previous post, Brian was a lifesaver. He put in 200% effort to make sure we got out of West Bengal safely and that his buddies would not have to endure terrible pain. He did more than we could ask for. Once we reached Balasore, flies scattered over our bandages. Later that night, I went to Balasore Govt. Hospital. And an adventure like this wouldnt be complete without a trip to such a hospital. No gloves. People staring, so No privacy. And pain like no other. Once the iodine touched the wounds, I screamed many expletives. How did this happen? The introspection piled up. But I told myself to keep in mind, life is suffering. This pain was minute in comparison to some of the other problems in this hospital.
I came down with a fever that night and fearing infection, not enough rest, and rough Indian terrain, I pulled myself out for a few days. I felt bad but knew that it was time to focus on my health. Something told me that Allen and Brian would do just fine and I wouldn't if I continued. The fact that these hospitals didnt use gloves freaked me out. I decided that I would take a train to Calcutta and get good physician care.
Now I'm in Calcutta and boarding a plane in 12 housr to Chennai to rejoin Korma Police. To finish whole, as we started, but with several bandages. The doctor I got was excellent and my family here took good care of me. But at the same time, I missed the road and BMG (rickshaw). My skin is rapidly healing but still looks disgusting. I got enough rest and do not regret this "accident" at all. It allowed me time to continue to establish a connection with part of my family I've lost touch with. I feel more complete with the wounds, as weird as that sounds. I needed Calcutta, and I got it. But now I need Pondicherry.
And I'd also like to thank all of you for your concern. I feel more pumped than ever. I cant wait to join A&B.
-Sonny
