November 30,2024
I spent the past two Quito days running errands and soaking up the city. I feel curious, left out and invited in, because most every park and square I wandered into had music striking up or playing and as I was interacting with the people here while catching up with others on the phone, I wondered what was the meaning of this special holiday. Re: I decided to ask David if there were celebrations and what they were all about, including the fireworks that came the night before and the next.
David responded “No” to my question. There were no special celebrations. The only recent holiday was the upcoming one he had mentioned during our drive (now a weekend past).
Therefore, the band striking up in the first square I often pass through; the gentleman singing and playing a violin behind me in the small plaza, the percussion band testing mics ahead of me in the historic center square and the numerous vendors of food and otherwise are just part of normal days I have been enjoying here. This does not overshadow the struggle that is also experienced in the country. There was also this mix in Colombia, and though not the same, I also think of the dire situations that persist in the U.S.
I am fortunate to be a traveler now, and I am going to attempt to make the most of it. Bouncing between different countries and their cities has been both more challenging and enjoyable than I imagined it would be. This brings to mind moments like balancing work-life and budgeting, but I also think of interpersonal connections that are sometimes bittersweet because either I or other people are traveling elsewhere. Romance is also up and down.
I am fortunate now and also as a former limited traveler to have all the family and friends who have shaped my life and even fortunate for how I have dealt with all my struggling experiences that have shaped my life just the same.