Before you freak out and buy into all that violent propaganda put out by the US government, let me explain.
Traffic is so congested in Bogota that you are only allowed to drive your car 3 days a week. Unless...you own an armed car which can drive any day. Many pay the extra $20,000 to armor their car so they have the freedom to drive every day.
Alberto, when he was younger, was the equivalent of a Secret Service body guard for dignitaries in Colombia. Now he is a driver for our affiliate business in Bogota.
Still, it is comforting to be picked up and transported by someone who knows how to handle, ah, let's say, sticky situations.
Alberto is a perfect gentleman. He grabbed my luggage, open my door and treated me like royalty. I didn't have the heart to tell him that I am just some guy, not a dignitary.
One of the things I enjoy the most about Latin culture is the courtesy. People are polite, courteous and kind, with all the time in the world to help or simply talk.
And, they are proud of their appearance. Men look sharp and women, well, you can only imagine given the reputation of Colombian women.
The last time I was in the US, I was appalled at the slovenly dress and appearance of Americans. Not to mention the rampant obesity.
What happened to our personal pride? Since I have been living in Latin cultures, I automatically dress better and keep my hair cut neatly. I just can't help it. These people compel you to look better, and be more polite and helpful.
On the half hour drive from the airport to the office, I practiced my spanish and he practiced his english.
I was shocked when he complimented my spanish. I feel totally inadequate speaking and hearing spanish. Colombians have impeccable pronunciation which makes it so much easier to hear spanish.
As I would get some piece of spanish, he would laugh and compliment me. And, when he would come up with an unusual english word, I would laugh and compliment him.
There is a joy to hearing someone speak a new language, and to help them, and watch their progress.
I arrived at the office to pandemonium.
More to follow later...
2 comments:
Ha, the armored car reminds me how ever culture has to work around their governments 'good ideas'... good to read your blog. lately there have been all kinds of fund raising for starving US citizens, quoting one out of 8 is going to bed hungry - what absolute bullshit - I have NEVER seen hungry kids except those of some mentally ill people, or drug addict/alcoholic parents who either forgot to feed them or spent the money on dope... ANYONE who wants food in this country has it..... and usually way too much of it!!! am in withdraw, now, Tom, just getting quiet and pulling back from my everyday 'grooves' and seeing what is Really Here. feels good. Love, Darshan
Getting quiet and pulling back sounds good. You have been committed to being quit for a long time which impresses and amazes me. I appreciate your dedication to sitting.
Your comments on hunger reminded me of a distinction. We have a lot of over weight indians in Panama. Even though they get the calories, they are under nourished because their food is empty of the good stuff...all white rice, sugar and beans. Just one of the reasons that they seldom live longer than 40 years.
I don't think many in the US have this problem unless it is self inflicted. Too much "fast food" shuffle!
Today, at 5:30 PM, just after everyone left for a holiday weekend, I realized that I was trying to prepare a report for our clients who arrive tomorrow night and the report said that the mining claims were worthless. Oops! Shit! How did that happen?
There mining engineer had determined a different set of parameters that makes this stuff worthless. Now what to do.
Only one possibility...tell the truth and let it sort itself out. I'll let you know what happens. Love, Tom
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