I will be starting 2009 in India!  For the first time in many years, I will be in India in January.  I am looking forward to watching President-elect Obama's inauguration there, amidst the company and perspectives of Indians.  From what I have read in newspapers and what I have heard from friends, "Obamania" abounds in the Indian subcontinent!  Indians have sent our President-to-be statues of Hanuman (a beloved and astute monkey god who played a pivotal role in the Hindu epic Ramayana), adorned their beaches post-election with carvings of Obama's profile next to  "Congratulations!" spelled out in the sand, and, in phone conversations with their relatives living in America, quickly dispensed with family news to instead hear the latest about our new President's doings.  Indeed, the excitement surrounding our historic Presidential election is palpable, both here and abroad.  

I hope to also continue my cross-continental education in several fronts while in India.  This will include an exploration of the pediatric health care system.  Many of India's children face many challenges to their health, ranging from dire poverty, sanitation issues, environmental hazards (increasing with rapid and often inadequately unregulated industrialization), infectious diseases, and illiteracy.  America, too faces many challenges.  My wish for the New Year is that the hope and new energy symbolized by the election of Mr. Obama will herald positive change and innovative solutions, in the United States and around the world,for the challenges we face.   Wishing you all a peaceful, healthy, and happy 2009. 

• ‹ Resolutions For A Healthful New Year
• Next Year ›