Problem Solving, Buggy Fixing, and the Power of Family

Daily miles 0 | Total miles 10,677.94

Last night, just before midnight, the family who had offered their help — father Niranjan, mother Jahnavi, son Vikas, and daughter-in-law Mamtha — knocked on my door. They stood there holding what was left of my front wheel: a completely damaged rim. My heart sank. I felt devastated. Tears came instantly as I stared at the wheel, unable to see any solution to the problem in front of me.

At the same time, I felt terrible for involving this family who had been nothing but kind. Now they were standing in front of me while I had a small emotional breakdown. And yet, their reaction was pure compassion. They stayed calm, kind, and incredibly generous, giving me space to gather myself while reassuring me that they would not leave until the problem was solved.

“No worries, be happy, everything will be alright. Everything happens for a reason,”

Niranjan said with the warmest smile.

I couldn’t believe the goodness surrounding me and the confusion happening inside me. I was also extremely tired and aware that exhaustion wasn’t helping my thinking. While I spiraled into worst-case scenarios, they were already looking for solutions.

We agreed to meet for breakfast — complimentary at the hotel — and I decided I absolutely needed to sleep until at least 7 a.m.

Just after 7, Mamtha gently knocked on my door with news: they had already found several possible solutions. I was blown away by the determination. She later told me that in India, many people ask three to five others for help when faced with a problem — dramatically increasing the chances of finding an answer. Meanwhile I was still stuck in skepticism, but the entire family assured me again and again: We stay with you until it’s solved.

Long story short, it became a full family effort.

Niranjan and Jahnavi had a wedding to attend, but Mamtha and Vikas decided to stay with me to try and fix the wheel. After several failed attempts at local bicycle shops, we drove back to the hotel — still without breakfast.

I finally ate an incredible meal, one I wish I had photographed, but it looked too good to wait. Mamtha explained each dish, what goes with which chutney, and what is traditionally eaten alone. Delicious — and such a lovely learning experience. After they ate as well and got ready, we all got into the car, dropped the parents at the wedding, and then the three of us continued to the next city — the one I will run to tomorrow.

There, we found a mechanic who clearly knew what he was doing. I trusted him immediately. After about an hour and a shared tea, we left with a front wheel that is usable — not perfectly aligned, but hopefully strong enough to take me to that town tomorrow. Once there, Jubair, the mechanic, will try to make further adjustments so I can continue towards Goa.

Again, everyone at the shop and along the way was unbelievably kind.

On our way back, we stopped at the wedding for lunch. What an experience — and one of my favorite moments on this journey so far. Everyone welcomed me so wholeheartedly. The groom and his father insisted I join the meal. We washed our hands, sat down, and food was served beautifully on a palm leaf. There were both non-veg and pure-veg options (India is a vegetarian dream). I tasted Ragi for the first time, tapioca, Jeera rice, veg curry, raita, snacks, a banana for dessert, and a fresh coconut to take away.

The atmosphere felt communal and warm — less individualistic than the events I know — and that made it feel equal, harmonious, and deeply touching.

This day, unexpectedly, became one of my most enjoyable so far.

Back at the hotel, we checked the wheel. It’s wobbly, but I’m confident I’ll make it to the next town where adjustments can be made. We shared one last coffee together before they left. And as they drove off, waving, I cried again — this time from feeling so much love.

With tears in my eyes, I walked a little and then sat under a tree. People here are so respectful and warm that words simply fall short. Later, I got a coffee from the stand behind the hotel and chatted with the woman who owns it and a customer. Again, the warmth in the air was unmistakable.

India is teaching me so many lessons. Some I’m beginning to understand now; others, I think, will reveal themselves over time.

Niranjan, Jahnavi, Vikas, and Mamtha — you are four extraordinary people. I am so grateful. And I am honored to now call you family. Your consistency in words and actions, and the depth of your values, were visible from the first moment until the last wave goodbye.

Tonight, I sleep with deep gratitude. And whatever comes next, I will carry your attitude toward challenges with me:

Stay grounded. Trust your values. And believe that solutions exist.

Thanks for checking in.

Let’s continue this journey through India — I can’t wait.

Be well, Andrea