'From a Distance...Mexico A Culture at Work'

 

A 'Clown', Lalu and Pablo

Karen with the 'Sandman'

You see them in the middle of the road...they're juggling, selling food, newspapers or washing your windshield. On the 'Malecon' they present a variety of music and dance, some perhaps not so lovely, others very excellent and beautiful indeed...All with passion. Or there are clowns and mimes, those who stack rocks and others building elaborate sand sculptures. Of course some want to offer you the 'best' that timeshares have to offer (maybe an oxymoron) or a seemingly endless array of activities. There are plenty that have tequila, cigars, jewelry and clothing... 'almost free'! Mothers with their children, often with sad faces that have 'Chiclets' or dolls for sale. Or perhaps it's a painting, including the traditional to those made with spray cans or even coffee beans. The beaches are full of folks selling horchata, tuba, shrimp or beautifully sculptured mango to blankets, pottery, wood carvings, hats and hammocks. Of course there are as well the family own and run 'Abarrotes', or countless restaurants from a simple cart to one of eloquence. And there are the waiters, numerous massage therapist, the motorcycle courier's, as well as thousands working within the lodging industry.

Karen and Luis..."My 1st sell of the day"

What a lovely voice...

Who are they? They are the Mexican people and they are a 'Culture at Work'. Often working six days a week, if not eight as our neighbor Raul recently stated with a smile. Though I imagine that for some it is almost an 'eight day' week. Sure, as well as our culture, change is necessary. Yet, I have so enjoyed watching them use their imagination to offer something more than a hand out or a sign asking for help.

Spray Can Painter

A 'Rock Stacker' she is...

So next time someone offers you the bracelet, sombrero or pottery bowl that you have no need of, even for the thousandth time...just offer back a gentle 'no gracias' with a smile. Remembering that they are a 'Culture at Work' making provision for their families.

License Plate sayings...

And another product of Mexico...Rodrigo y Gabriela...Wow!