MB Meets World

I mentioned earlier that sometimes people wanted to take pictures with me because of my whiteness. This happened primarily in India, both Agra and Delhi. The tour guide told me the requests were primarily from people who lived in smaller communities who didn’t have white community members.

I got to thinking about how I was perceived by folks on my travels and how it impacted my perception of places. So, I didn’t feel out of place being places where I looked different. But I was perceived as different. Folks in India were surprised I like spicy foods and was okay eating with my hands, for example.

I was perceived as wealthy, and relative to some folks, I am. I mean, in Agra and Delhi I had a private driver and tour guide; that’s pretty bougie. I felt immensely peaceful in Delhi, which is a chaotic place. A lot of that was bc I wasn’t driving, my tour guide protected me from unwanted attention from folks selling things or begging, and I stayed in a nice hotel. I wasn’t taken to poor areas or even temples where women were not welcome. So I had the privilege of experiencing the joy of India without the sad parts.

There was some version of receiving privilege in every country I visited. I stayed on three college campuses (or faculty housing for nearby campus). I stayed in lovely homes of friends/family. I enjoyed amazing meals that I did not prepare. I leisurely explored beautiful art in museums, temples/mosques and in the community. I always felt safe.

I know the privileges I experienced mean I did not completely experience the culture of the countries, which is a loss. And yet, I appreciate the privileges, especially at a time in my life when I was vulnerable. As I continue to process all of this, I feel grateful for the glimpse I got into the culture of others, and at a time of my life with great sadness, I appreciate being protected from additional sadness. I won’t feel guilty about it, but will remain mindful of this on future trips.