Assault on your senses

Horns blaring, not in anger, but to say "I am here".

A little child, knocking on the car window at a stop, trying to sell you some small thing, and then accepting your half-full bottle of water as a treat.

The pigeons roosting just outside your window.

The sound of the garbage wala, yelling that he is here to buy your trash, which will be sold on later.

Street dogs fighting for the least of scraps.

The crowds walking around the market, trying to buy that very latest thing, perhaps for Christmas or for themselves.

A house maid talking Hindi to a squirmly active toddler.

Dust all around, clinging to the base of your jeans.

A cow. An elephant. And even a camel.

The red and gold of a winter wedding, drummers at the ready for the groom to begin his journey toward his bride.

The buzz of a mosquito.

The smiles of your new family coming to greet you.

The sun. The warmth upon your winter skin.

The chill of the night air as you slowly drift to sleep.