In the summer of 2007, I visited Durango, Mexico. I can still picture it, as if it were only yesterday. When I think about Mexico, hard working people come to mind. I had never seen people selling products in the streets. It was a shock to see such young kids working in the streets. There was a little boy, I vividly remember. He looked to be about 6 years old. He was selling chocolates just to earn money to help his family. The people in Durango did not have the expensive electronics, clothing, and shoes, we take for granted in the United States. Most people were dressed quite simply. I noticed many teens and parents without cell phones.
I had family there we were visiting. I was surprised that many of my cousins, uncles, or aunties did not have cell phones either. My family and I arrived to visit with my aunt on my mom’s side of the family. Her house was so beautiful. Everything was just so perfect! That was until later that night. I heard so many gun shots! I couldn’t go to sleep at all. My mom was worrying like crazy. We all slept down stairs to feel more safe. It was just one of those nights you just had to be awake to see what would happen next. Thank God, nothing happened to us. Everybody remained safe.
What I learned from this trip is you don’t need expensive shoes, clothing, or electronics to fit in the world. Seeing young children willing to work so hard, so that they could help put food on the table, left me speechless. All these families were working this hard, just so they could keep their kids happy. Seeing all their hard work made me realize that I should be very appreciative of the things I have each day. I must be grateful for all the things God has given me each day. Sometimes it is easy to take things like a bed to sleep in, food to eat, and a wonderful house to live in, for granted. I always thank God every night saying “Thank you for all the wonderful things you have brought to my life ever since I was a baby”. I thank my parents for all their hard work and support, if it wasn’t for them I don’t know how I would be today.
“Hard work doesn’t guarantee success, but improves its chances.” -B. J. Gupta
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