India Update #4

The prayers are starting to work -- we got sprinkles this evening -- so keep coming so that the full monsoon rains may come!
Yesterday, we saw the Agra Fort which was quite spectacular mostly in red sandstone but some sections in marble. The details were incredible, but unfortunately, it was overshadowed by our next stop at the Taj Mahal. Needless to say, it was quite spectacular and we all enjoyed marveling in its grandeur. We were there at sunset, but unfortunately the smog (which should go away with the rains) prevented us from seeing it in its full glory of apenglow. We took a ton of pictures, but I fear none of them will give the sense of awe this place inspires. I enjoyed some peaceful time just admiring the fabulous precious stone inlays in the marble and the wonder of the artistic beauty of it all.
Many of us started getting used to the lifestyle of the famous, as we were constantly approached by people wanting to have their pictures taken with us or just taking our picture. It will be quite odd getting home and not getting the attention of these "paparazzi" and the onslaught of people wanting to sell us something with "a good price" for "just a minute."
Today, we went to Fatehpur Sikri - a former Moghul capital built by Emperor Akbar in 1569. Fabulous in its own right but abandoned due to lack of rain. I found the mosque ther particularly disturbing though, as I have gotten used to the spiritual side of India going to so many religious sites, but at this active mosque, we found more hawkers and the such than most of the other places we've been. It was neat, though being able to go into the Sufi shrine there, as usually women aren't able to go into the inner chamber by the tomb; but in a weird way, I was also disturbed knowing that it wasn't typical that I be allowed to go, leading me to wonder if it was the touristy affect on this holy site.
We have all been enjoying a more relaxed pace while here in Agra, with a lot more time to relax and shop. Several of us have also been enjoying the pool at this fancy hotel where we're staying.
Tomorrow morning, we're taking a train off to Jhansi where we'll do work at a charity hospital. I am particularly looking forward to this part of the trip, as this hospital is where my great-grandmother worked as a doctor from 1900-1905. The doctors there have been so friendly and helpful. While there, we all are going to do some painting, inventorying the pharmacy and medical supplies and similar tasks.
Since Jhansi is a less touristy location, there is less internet access, so I'm not sure if we'll be able to make contact again until we get to Varansi. We will try though, as it is good for all of us to keep in touch :-)