Traveling in a big city, like this involves a lot of walking. One of the things I learned is its important to be mindful during my walks. Throughout this blog, I am probably overworking the term “mindful” but it’s so incredibly important. I focus and pay attention to what’s going around me,, to see sights, hear the sounds, and no matter how pungent the smell - to breathe deeply. All this makes the trip more enjoyable.
While, I sit here I’m entertained by a street performer. A young lady in black with a red top dancing trying her best to make a few pesos. She lets her long black curly hair swing with the music while she performs some of her most favorite dance moves. It must be nice to be so free and able to dance in the streets. Even if just looking for some money, I think dancing in the streets is very liberating. Maybe I’ll try it one day. I doubt that I’ll earn any money though.
I later put some money in the can and asked if I could take this photo. She posed for me, and when I asked her name she very proudly said in Spanish "My name is Claudette Gonzales." Most people when you ask their name just answer with a first name. I could tell Claudette was very proud of who she is. Proud and dancing in the streets - you go girl!
Suddenly, as I’m sitting enjoying my coffee, young lady name Alexa comes up and asks for food. Of course, I say, just order what you want. She ordered a plate of Chilaques. Tortillas covered in enchilada sauce with fresh cheese on the top. Chilaques are a very common snack here in Mexico quite filling and cheap. I asked her if she could sit, and speak with me in Spanish. Alexa explained that she is homeless. When I asked what she had planned for the day, she said, I’ll be on the streets looking for enough money to afford a hotel. We talked for a while, and then suddenly a young man appears. She said that he was her boyfriend but I felt otherwise. She had this look of fear in her face when he sat down. After a brief conversation, they asked for some money to help them with a hotel room because of their homelessness. Although I gave them enough money for a nice room, I doubt they will use it for that. They seemed thankful at least.
I enjoy being with local people. This allows me to better understand the culture and more importantly, the language. I would never consider having breakfast with a homeless person at home, but am quite comfortable enjoying a conversation with a homeless person in Mexico.
Maybe I need to rethink this.
Comments
Post a Comment