Copy Editor Christina Kurian, a Clarke Central High School junior, impatiently waits her turn as her brother, Christopher Kurian, rides an elephant in India in 2005. Kurian was born in Chicago, IL, but moved to Georgia soon after, then India. However, she has been back in Georgia for the last eight years.
By CHRISTINA KURIAN – Copy Editor
Abrupt changes can cause dramatic differences in one’s life. Instead of looking at the negatives, Copy Editor Christina Kurian turned her focus towards the brighter aspects of moving. In fact, what she expected to be the worst experience of her life, became the most memorable instead.
Moving to India from Athens, Ga. was the most defining moment of my life so far. I moved to the state of Kerala in India when I was six, and I lived there until I was nine. Throughout the four years of living in India, I learned not only about the cultural differences and diversity, but also about my background.
The thought of being separated from everyone in America devastated me, especially all my cousins. But it wasn’t as bad as I expected it to be. I occupied myself with different activities, such as Bharatanatyam dance lessons, singing lessons, extracurriculars and family. These events led to my involvement in my culture and community.
The environment was completely different than what I’d grown up with in America. There were plenty of different kinds of plants and fruits all around my surroundings. I can even recall my uncle climbing a coconut tree in our yard and picking one out for me and my siblings.
Another distinct memory is the roads in Kerala. Due to the overpopulation of heavy vehicles, minimum traffic lights, lack of maintenance and weather, the roads were haphazard, and the traffic was chaotic. Trying to get some sleep the first couple days of living there was difficult, due to the constant honking from the cars, busses and trucks. But eventually, I became accustomed to it, and it didn’t bother me.
Living in India both deepened my experiences and exposed me to a whole new environment and opportunities. I learned multiple new languages, like Malayalam and Hindi, met more family members and made new friends. It broadened my view on the world and gave me a different perspective on life.
My time in India was a life-changing experience. It helped me to grow into the person I’ve become and understand my identity and heritage.
