The past few days have been surreal. Wednesday night of the 26th around 10pm we were told by the woman who looks after our hostel that we needed to stay inside and we should switch on the news. My roommate, Emmie, and I ran to the television and didn't leave its screen until almost 3 days later. First, one of our favorite restaurants, Leopold's, was targeted by open fire and grenades. Minutes later the ever-crowded VT train station, and even a Women's & Children's Hospital were attacked; the city of Mumbai was under siege. Over the next few hours as we watched in disbelief, we grew increasingly anxious as two popular hotels (the Taj and the Oberoi), a gas station, and a Jewish center were sprayed with gunfire, blasted with bombs, and invaded by terrorists. The administrators at both Temple and Welingkar were in constant contact, determining whether an evacuation plan was necessary as they connected with each of us to ensure our continued safety. Nonetheless, with our proximity to the attacks and new locations being reported throughout the night, we couldn't help but fear for our lives. I don't think any of us slept that night.

Thursday was Thanksgiving back home in the States, and I never imagined I'd be spending it on lockdown in the hostel. We were on the phone and sending e-mails all day, attempting to calm the fears of friends and family, though we were pretty shaken up ourselves. After more than 30-some hours, the military and police announced this morning that the hostage situation in all locations had ended and the terrorists were all killed, except one who was captured. Resuming classes brought back the first sense of "normalcy," but I'm having a difficult time escaping the feeling that I stand out very noticeably in this city with my light skin and blonde hair. The discomfort of getting stared at for being different wore off in the first few weeks of being here, but now the stares are somewhat unsettling again. I know things will slowly return to normal here, as they do in any place where terror and tragedy strike. I'm looking forward to coming back to Mumbai and witnessing her in all her glory once again. I'm not going to allow this manifestation of evil to stain the incredible experience I've been having in India. I have fallen in love with this country and especially this city.