Spencer Plaza is the most amazing shopping plaza. It's a place where traditional market place meets western consumerism. Some shops have prices marked and they are non-negotiable, like in western shops, In other places traditional style bartering takes place. As fair-skinned people Michael and I stood out as "rich" tourists. Never before have I had shop owners pleading with me to come into their establishments, "Just to look sir- looking is free!"
We went into one shop to buy a few trinkets for gifts. It took me a few minutes to decide on my special things- a few ornaments and boxes. I think my purchases amounted to about R200 or about $7. The shop owner was a real salesman, and when Michael indicated an interest in bedspreads, well the sales pitch really turned on. We must have looked at silk bedspreads ("A work of art sir, this one took a month and a half to make by hand), Madras cotton bedspreads (Madras cotton, is best cotton in world sir. It take rough stuff, just throw it in washing machine.), and a hundred other types. The shop owner was not concerned about contradictions in his patter and could avow most sincerely "I give you special price as you are my only customer today- nobody comes into my little shop" and later "These are most popular bedspreads- I can't keep enough in stock."
In the end Michael couldn't decide so he said "I'll go away and think about it". The man said "I will offer you a most tempting price sir, below cost price." But Michael being a strong man of faith refused the temptation. Later, while he was looking for jewellery in another shop, the man came and pleaded with him to come back, but Michael refused.
I thought I would never say this, but three hours of shopping just wasn't enough, so I think we may get another go this evening.
Dinner at Premnath's and Priya's place was simple, but plentiful. Priya had prepared food from all over India. There was the most delicious fish, chicken, rice, etc. It truly was scrumptious and only a little bit spicy. Premnath kept complaining about how bland the food was, as Priya had been merciful to our western tastes. Dessert was a traditional sweet milky concoction with raisins. It was also quite delicious,
During the meal, it was decided that Priya would pack sandwiches for our lunch today. She asked if we would like fruit with it and I exclaimed "Yes please!" She heard the longing in my voice and produced an apple cut into pieces and arranged on a plate. It was the first fresh fruit I had had since leaving Australia. It tasted so good! That morning, at eight o'clock, we had put in an order with room service for fresh fruit salad and coffee. By the time we left after 9.30 the fruit salad and coffee had not appeared. Priya said that this happened when they stayed there also- room service is very slow in the mornings.
I found out about the truth about the right hand rule. We asked if it was true that you have to eat food only with the right hand. Premnath and Vincent agreed that it was, but you could ask for exemption if you are left handed. So no more ineffectually chasing food around the plate with my right hand- I can chase it around with my left hand!
So today we visit the orphanage. Tonight will be a meal with Pastor Samuel and his wife, who live in a flat just downstairs from Premnath and Priya.
Tomorrow will be a big day. The first church service starts at 6 am followed by 8, 10 and 11 o'clock services. Michael and I will each preach at two of the services. They have to have so many services in order to fit the people into the much reduced building. The 11 o'clock service is a new English language service- the others are in Tamil. Michael and I spoke on Friday at the prayer meeting they have-- I found it hard to get used to the flow of speaking through an interpreter, although given the "interactive" nature of sermons at home I suppose I should be used to it.
After a busy morning we will be heading off to the train station to catch the train to Bhimavaram. The train leaves at about 5 pm and takes all night to get there. This should be quite an experience!
Given the busyness of Sunday, it may be a while before I get to an internet connection to post any further messages. I'm not sure what we will find in the way of technology in Bhimavaram.
Blessings
Keith
Vincent Samuel, his wife Shanti, Premnath and Priya
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