Final Thoughts - Taj Mahal - a SNAKE CHARMER

As we departed from India the words from a song in a Broadway play named “Wicked” came to my mind over and over -Who can say if I've been changed for the better? But because I knew you, I have been changed for good. We have been so blessed to meet and know the wonderful people of India. There are so many examples of kindness, charity, and faithful testimonies that we have experienced. We can honestly say that we have been changed for good. I would like to share an observation of a simple act of love and service the Relief Society sisters did to include those attending. Because of the variety of languages spoken in our ward, the sisters often presented the lesson in Tamil and English. For those that did not understand these languages, someone would sit next to them and translate. In addition, there was a weekly list of those in need who we could pray for. They made every effort to include all, so that all would be edified. I know that we are all children of our Heavenly Father and he wants each of us to love each other and to serve one another as we journey through this world. -Sister Martin

We were so blessed to have the opportunity to volunteer and serve in India. It was an unforgettable experience. We were happy to know that our efforts in the office helped the younger missionaries/ volunteers be out more and work closely with the local people. We know that the restored priesthood and gospel of Jesus Christ is true and that a living prophet directs the work. One apostle compared the current level of growth to the Kirtland era of the Church. The many members of the Church we met were wonderful and amazing people with great testimonies and conviction. This had a profound impact on our lives and we believe we were changed for good. The anticipation of a temple there is strong and the faith is being exercised to hasten the work forward.

Elder Martin


We met wonderful people and had the opportunity to see The Taj Mahal and Agra area of India-

This masterpiece is almost 400 years old. It is constructed of  ivory-white marble. Artisans embedded precious stones into the marble. The detailed artwork, carvings and inlaid stones in the building were impressive.

We enjoyed our visit to the Taj Mahal, even though at first we were a little worried that the heavy pollution and smog would prevent us from seeing it clearly. The closer we were the better it looked.

A lot of great photo ops so we took advantage. 

  Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan had this palace built out of love as a resting place for his favorite wife Mumtz Mahal.  He planned to build a matching black mausoleum across the Yamuna River for himself but his son imprisoned him and he was buried along with his wife.

This is one of the four gate entrances to the Taj Mahal, but the one that tourist use to enter. 

After, our guide took us to some local artisans who inlay stones like was done in the Taj Mahal. There is a long tedious process just to inlay a few stones-imagine this whole building! We were told these people were actual descendants of those that worked on the Taj Mahal.

We also went to the Agra Fort nearby. 

Later...we unexpectedly saw a snake charmer - Sister Martin was fearless with the snakes. See video.

Interesting things to see in Old Delhi - A man hauling stove fuel tanks on his bicycle. Are those empty or full? Hope he doesn't drop one.

Are those electrical wires??

We then went to see some of the Government of India buildings

Finally we saw the place where Gandhi Ji or Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated. He had a vision for an independent India which he was instrumental in making it come about in 1948 from British rule.

Very peaceful place.

We felt blessed to have an opportunity to see a few of the amazing sights of India when we went to New Delhi for training meetings.