Theory of Relativity

28 Oct

Due to an extremely fortunate coincidence, I arrived in Sri Lanka during the early morning of what would the first day of HHR’s annual conference for strategic planning. Twenty-four hours of traveling nearly halfway around the globe confined in a winged tin tube, followed by what only seemed like an equal amount of time careening through traffic in a wheeled tin box would appeal to few people as the ideal introduction to a new place, new people, and a new job. Many other HHR staff members had also traveled long distances from branch offices across Sri Lanka, but from the opening introduction at the conference our shared enthusiasm breathed renewed life into every one of us.

On that first night we reviewed the founding mission of HHR, to protect and promote human right in Sri Lanka, and discussed our goals for the conference. In addition to my own recent arrival, this conference was also the first time for most staff members to meet in person with others from outside their own office; so after adjourning late in the evening much time was spent getting to know each other informally. By the close of the second day, as we sat eating dinner together, my Sri Lankan coworkers were already asking “So, how do you like Sri Lanka?”

As I reflected on the answer, it stuck me that I had less than 36 hours since my arrival on which I might base any opinion and that for about a third of that time I had been asleep; a moment later my new colleagues also shared this odd realization. I really could only commented on the hot, humid weather and the endless varieties of spicy curries, as we shared a common amusement at conspicuous incongruence between mechanically measured time and our perceived time together. We worked, ate, and relaxed with one another for two more days, and then the conference drew to a close. We succeeded in shaping a strategic plan for our organization and grew together as a dedicated team of professionals. After this fourth cycle of the sun around our world, the time gap relative to our personal perceptions seemed immeasurable and therefore ceased holding any significance.

I am looking forward to the coming year.

Posted By

Posted Oct 28th, 2007

6 Comments

  • Scoplaw

    October 29, 2007

     

    Write what you can, I’ll be reading!

  • Chicago Typewriter

    October 29, 2007

     

    I’m looking forward to reading your posts, Adam.

  • Adam

    October 29, 2007

     

    I am glad to have a couple of great writers reading my blog. Any comments on my writing, or inquires about anything you might be interested to know would be very welcome!

  • Miriam

    October 30, 2007

     

    I’m glad you’re enjoying the work! Keep posting! 😉

  • Jinying

    November 3, 2007

     

    Keep writing and post more pics:)

  • Nury

    November 6, 2007

     

    Hey Adam! The ‘hood isn’t as fun without ya, but more Murky cupcakes for the rest of us. Enjoying your writing–sounds like Sri Lanka and work are amazing. Keep it up and stay safe!

Enter your Comment

Submit

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

 

 

Fellows

2024
2023
2022
2021
2020
2019
2018
2017
2016
2015
2014
2013
2012
2011
2010
2009
2008
2007
2006
2005
2004
2003