Five Weeks, Five Insights

Within the past five weeks, I have gained a unique look on life in Colombia. Each day is unpredictable, yet energetically full of promise. Five things that I have learned in the past five weeks are: 

1. Patience and flexibility are essential for any American traveling in Colombia. Plans change at a moment's notice and time is free-flowing and debatably nonexistent. I am now in the process of transitioning from my initial placement school to a new school: Instituto Educativo Distrital para el Desarrollo del Talento Humano. My moving to a new school provides an overall better experience for both me and my students. With this change, I am perfecting the Latin American art of having a "cógela suave" attitude and going with the flow.  

2. Upon arriving in Colombia, one of my program directors said, "Don't underestimate the power of McDonald's." I unbelieving disregarded the comment, finding the fast food chain to be repulsive. However, after my short time in Barranquilla, I must admit that there is something soothing about the Golden Arches, the free wifi, and the greasy taste of cheap French fries being just a bus ride away. I have also acquired a new respect for fried yuca dipped in a mixture of mustard and mayonnaise. The common, potato-like root vegetable is delicious.

3. Although exact relations can be confusing, extended Colombian family members have become an integral part of my life. My cousin offered to take me to church and another invited me to spend Holy Week in another city. Last Friday, I spent the evening with two younger cousins and another volunteer playing card games and listening to music. I have also joined my aunt on bicycle rides throughout Barranquilla. I could continue to list the time I have spent with my family. Having such an inclusive family is sweet. 

4. The little things mean the most: sharing a smile, being given a sticker from an affectionate child, and conversing with a baker after buying a piece of bread that costs less than 20 cents. These simple acts make strong connections...and having these friendships is one of my happiest accomplishments in Barranquilla. Being greeted and conversing about merchandise in a local tienda undoubtedly means that I am slowly but surely integrating into my community.  

5. As Colombians need little reason for festivities, every day is a good day to celebrate. Seeing a car driving though town on a weeknight with giant speakers blaring salsa music through an open trunk is not uncommon. On Fridays, lawn chairs are set in a circle where neighbors and friends gather to revel in each other's company. When Miss Colombia--a Barranquilla native--won Miss Universe, endless excitement ensued. Simply put, Colombians enjoy the moment and the people in their life.