One man and his Tuk Tuk adventure

Mark

So as we enter the final hours in India, soon to begin our journey home I find myself with a slightly nervous feeling about returning to New Zealand as well as a good dose of confusion about this country.  What will I say when people ask me about the trip? Where will I begin? What have I seen? How can I explain it? What will stay with me, and what will fade away? Here are some thoughts as they stand from the perspective of one man and his Tuk Tuk!

Let's start with, 'Gaining the fare'

It's been a long journey to get here and it's all in the preparation.  There really is a huge amount of time, planning, thought and background work that goes into a trip like this, however, whilst all of that is hugely important, it's ultimately about getting the right people.  A Tuk Tuk and its driver will go up and down the street, catching peoples eye, striking up conversation, offering their services, and promising to help you explore.  For this to progress beyond a simple two second interaction though you have to be open to this exploration.  It often feels safer, and with the driving style in India, it often is, to keep your feet firmly planted on the ground and walk within your comfort zone.  To stick with what you know brings a certain level of comfort, but where is the challenge, the fun, the growth and the thrill?  I could not have asked for a better group of staff or boys to undertake this journey with me. From the forward planning of this trip by Mr Skeen to the meticulous attention to detail by Tom and Reuben and then Shane thankfully answering my call to get back on board, the stage was set for a fantastic journey ahead. The interview process and shear calibre of the young men who stepped forward ensured I couldn't wait to begin the adventure.

'Weaving through traffic',

So we jumped on board and for the past month we have covered some distance! This is a vast and diverse country and it is often an assault on the senses in every way.  As we have interacted with the people, explored the streets, the history, the places of worship, the customs and the food it has often felt a little precarious.  Again the similarities between India and the iconic Tuk Tuk stick in my mind. They can both be scary, rough, smelly and uncomfortable, they both feel like they could breakdown or tip over at any moment!  Who is in charge here? Does anyone have a clue where we are going? Nearly every day we have weaved our way through traffic with thousands of people all around us.  Just like everyday life many of these people we will never be in contact with, for they have their head down, fixated on what they are doing or trying to achieve and it simply isn't possible to find out all of their stories.  As we travel further, others choose to cut in front of us to block our path and as we tussle for position there is an ever present tooting of horns or shouting in an attempt to gain our attention.  If I was driving this Tuk Tuk in such a harsh, loud and polluted environment I would surely crave to get away from all this, to be out on my own, on the open road, no hassles, no noise, no toxic smog, just a clear passage through life with little stress or luggage in tow.  When you are in the middle of all the chaos you want to get out, to have time to yourself to breathe, to attempt to make some sense of it all.  Then something happens, just when you think you can't take anymore, you catch someone's eye. A glimpse into their existence, a nod, a smile, perhaps a short conversation at the red light before it changes again and you remember that those around you bring the spark to life's journey, being alone is a temporary craving! 

'Every Tuk Tuk is different and has its own story to tell'

There are thousands of Tuk Tuks in India, but no two are the same! Each has been customised, decorated, cared for and repaired in some capacity.  Much like us as people, these vehicles have borne the brunt of what life has thrown at them with varying degrees of success.  Some show battle scars from the challenges they have faced, others hide their troubles behind a mask of dodgy welding and a lick of paint.  Life is tough on these vehicles and their drivers, a lot is expected of them and often they are piled full with baggage and cargo that would bring a lesser vehicle down, but not the humble Tuk Tuk.  With pride and nurture these vehicles can shine and sparkle in the sunlight, they can appear to glide along the street and with solid determination advance to their destination of choice.   

'We must continue on life's journey of discovery'

India has some incredibly tough times ahead, when we return to the paradise of New Zealand the Tuk Tuk and its driver will struggle on and attempt to carve out an existence in India's many city battlefields.  We must honour this grit and determination to succeed by doing what we can in our place in the world. Never give up, find people to share the journey with, interact and have fun with those around you and help them by carrying them and their life's baggage when needed. Become the humble figures of our communities and deliver the promise of continuing life's journey of discovery.

My last words are for the young men who have been my travel companions, gents, you have all embraced this trip with a spirited innocence, enthusiasm and openness which has resulted in a true brotherhood amongst the group.  Your blogs have given us all a true insight into what you have experienced, thought, felt and questioned about India, the world, family, friends and your own personal development.  These are not easy topics and your willingness to jump on board has made for a great ride.

Cheers,

Mark

(Mr Crook)​