The "Slumber Party"

We asked the girls participating in their month-long ashram to show us their dormitory. Turns out it was one small room with about 4 beds and 4 cushions on the floor. When we walked in, Jayanti, the only girl who spoke English, said "Welcome, please sit." There was no place to sit but on the beds, so we plopped ourselves there. So here we were, a couple of American white girls sitting around on beds and cushions with 8 beautiful Indian girls in colorful tunics and leggings. But after a while, it just felt like a few girlfriends at a slumber party.

Through Jayanti, the girls asked us questions about where we live, our children, and we showed them numerous pictures on our iPhone and iPad. They told us that they like to sit and talk with girlfriends for fun. Only boys played outside with balls and things, they said. Then Babita asked if we'd pray for her. Then, someone else asked. Finally, I just took out my notebook and started writing all the requests down. We were called to dinner several times, but everyone wanted to tell us their requests. Then others wanted me to add more to theirs. Many wanted prayer for wisdom and understanding, to learn the material, to learn English, to learn to read and write. Many had sick relatives who needed healing.

We obviously were late for dinner. But totally worth it. The "slumber party" moment was my favorite part so far.