Quite A View

So... Yesterday we went to ASHA HQ for the first time and met Kiran Martin.
What a woman! Full of energy and passion about her work, discussing all kinds of different areas to do with the people she works with- health, finance, robber housing barons, building, you name it. At the same time she is happy and laughing, very gracious and welcoming, having time for each person, asking who each of us is and something about ourselves. Freddie is equally welcoming. Fortunately perhaps, he is the first person I see as I'm feeling slightly intimidated initially. Julie has done a great job so far shepherding her flock and keeping us fed on bananas and oranges and endless humour! Even if she does wash her feet in sinks... er, there is a shower, boss. . .
Kiran's office is in the middle of Asha's building which has just been redecorated and extended. On the way to her office we walk through a waiting-room; there are about 15 people waiting to be seen. We all get introduced and talk to her about who we are and what we do. It seems we all have useful talents that Asha can use- Nigel is surprised to find that his experience in banking will come in very handy indeed. And Dennis is quickly earmarked as a co-ordinator for our decorating project. This is Kiran at work! Dick and I have a few minutes to discuss what we are going to talk to the clinic doctors about. Alan is very happy to meet old friends again. The budding artists are identified and are keen to get going- Neil, Tina, Sue, Val, Rina, Stephen and Laura.
And, finally, from there, we go to the slum itself. I first notice the tall smooth concrete walls that our road passes between to get there. These surround exclusive houses, private schools, etx. that the slum is located next to. Once in the slum we are on a narrow road surrounded by small workshops and homes with lots of busy people everywhere. Some give us a brief glance as we pass. When we get out there is a welcoming committee of women to meet us and here an amazing experience begins. We are all dressed in beautiful garlands of marigolds- Rina manages to get three. Rose petals are showered over us and we are invited into the home of the women's group leader for tea, which is delicious. A secret recipe, she says, when asked for it. Crowds of children build up at the walls, looking in.
A few pictures will tell it better than my verbiage. Will post then as soon as can downsize images from 3Mb.