Brian Whitmire - Nepal Volunteer - Self PortraitI had my own idea of what to expect  before leaving for Nepal to volunteer with SADP. I quickly found that the experience that was pictured in my mind was not nearly as beautiful, rich or memorable as what I had come to encounter. I will always be filled with such positive memories from that trip and time in my life.

When I first arrived in Kathmandu, I was quickly reminded of the environment that I would be spending a good amount of time in. The high energy given off from the city was quickly dimmed by the gentle and patient character of Ramesh Nath Sharma. I was so grateful to be around him and to be given so much information at such a constant rate.

 

Brian Whitmire - Nepal Volunteer - Lunch

Brian Whitmire - Nepal Volunteer - Laundry

Brian Whitmire - Nepal - HimilayasAfter spending a few days in Kathmandu, we headed to Damauli to Kyamin Village , where I was able to get at true sense of the Nepali culture. I stayed with the Baniya family who were so tremendously generous with there time, patience and in sharing their way of life. I spent some time plowing up the land around the Baniya eco farm and then Ramesh showed me how to create little plots to plant seeds.  Because I was there for the Dashain festival,  things were a bit more laid back and slower paced in general which made for an interesting experience.

After spending time with the Baniyas, we spent time in both Pokhara and Chitiwan National Park. I loved the park since it is filled with Indian elephants in a much more natural environment that you would be able to find in most zoos or sanctuaries around the United States (my native country).  Being able to hang around them was so rewarding and I was able to see how gentle they really are. Amazing creatures.

Brian Whitmire - Nepal - Lovely Women

Finally, it was time to head back to Kathmandu. On most of the journey back, as well as on the trip as a whole, Ramesh was educating me on organic farming as well as all of the different facets of agriculture in general.

I certainly left that experience with much more respect and curiosity about organic agriculture than I arrived. I will always remember my trip to Nepal, and my time spent with Ramesh/SADP. It has certainly left its mark on me for the rest of my life and I am forever grateful for those experiences and the people that I have met because of my involvement in SADP.

~Brian Whitmire
www.brian-whitmire.com
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