- I was walking behind a group of teenaged boys who were shuffling along the narrow sidewalk after school got out. I was thinking to myself "jeez, could they walk any slower?" when one of them noticed I was behind them and then told all of his friends to move aside so I could pass. TEENAGED BOYS ya'll!
- Caro got dumped and insisted that she cook for me!
- When I couldn't find the street for the migration office, I asked an older woman who didn't recognize the street's name. She then brought me into the shop behind us, asked the woman behind the counter where the street was. When that woman didn't know, the older woman insisted that the shop worker call the office for me. She then noticed I was going to migration and knew exactly where it was (just didn't realize it was on that specific street) and walked me to the street, gave me her phone number and made me promise that I would call her if I need absolutely anything at all.
- When I say "gracias" to someone who has just provided me with a service they pretty much always respond with "gracias a usted". Sometimes it becomes a ridiculous game of thanking each other, but either way it is extremely sweet.
- I noticed a small boy of about 7 years old and his even smaller sister of about 5 years old walking together in their little school uniforms. She was pulling a little backpack on wheels. The brother took the bag and pulled it for her.
- You should see how patient they are when they teach me how to dance! I am usually super embarrassed to dance but here, everyone is so sweet and understanding of my lack of experience, I feel totally fine as I struggle with basic steps.
- Basically after meeting anyone knew, they always say "if you need anything at all, if you have any questions, we are here for you!" It can be that sweet lady I met in the street, the bartender, the yoga instructor, or the friend of a friend of a friend. They say it sincerely as they offer their friendship and support.
Awww...Meredith, I know you are homesick right now, but this post really captures the spirit of the Mexican people. It is so beautifully written. Keep your head up. You're doing such a great job!!!
ReplyDeleteThanks so much for your support Nicole! I'm feeling a little better each day and getting comfortable again with reaching out to people I know. How did you meet people while you were in DF?
ReplyDeleteHi Meredith! I'm so glad to see that you are doing a little better. It can definitely be tough because it's both mentally and emotionally exhausting to be away from family and friends in a different country. But...your new place is sooooo beautiful!!! It looks like a movie set. In terms of meeting people, I will tell you that a lot of my friends were actually my students. They were so excited to show me their city, take me out to eat, and introduce me to everything Mexican. They invited me to their houses, took me on tours of the city, showed me their favorite restaurants, and even invited me to join them on family vacations!!! My neighbors were also extremely caring and kind. I pretty much hung out with anyone and everyone--honestly age really didn't matter to. I also met people through fellow Fulbrighters. I would say your best bet would be to talk to your students. I know they are teachers, but I'm sure they're excited to have you!!! Btw...you write beautifully :-)
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