Behind the Beautiful Forevers

Upon full review of the blog over the summer, it was clear that all posts successfully avoided one particularly challenging topic. I have grappled with how to describe the poverty here in a way that is both compassionate and provides context for the scenes beyond our campus walls. I still cannot articulate how we are able live in this oasis of clean water and electricity and green grass while our neighbors live exposed the the monsoon rains, without adequate sanitation facilities, and collect water each day from a city sponsored truck. I think about it a lot, but cannot explain it in words -- yet.

During vacation, Jonah and I read Behind the Beautiful Forevers by Katherine Boo. Ms. Boo's research for this incredibly vivid book included spending long stretches of time in a slum adjacent to the Mumbai airport.

The scrupulously detailed depictions of intertwined characters, the abject living conditions they endure, and the corrupt system they must navigate provided me with a much needed reference for both understanding and sharing the immense scope of poverty here. I highly recommend that you read it.

And with perfect timing, a link to this video arrived in my inbox. It was filmed at AES late last spring by a crew from the 100 People Project and highlights the work of our high school's largest community service club, the Vivekanand community across the street, and two well known staff members. I highly recommend that you watch it.