While colorful fireworks burst through the dark skies, and red, white and blue flags flap in the wind, a sense of pride swells up in me. Not an arrogant pride, but one of gratitude and appreciation. Let me tell you why.
As I sit at my computer tapping on my keyboard, comfortable in my home’s air-conditioning and other luxuries, my mind goes back to my native country of Bolivia. I go back to my birthplace, where daily protests block streets and put an abrupt halt to business. Homes where electricity, water and gas are often available for only hours at a time and are sometimes turned off completely without notice.
Schools with empty classrooms abound-teachers are marching through streets demanding a raise in pay from their monthly salary equivalent to $150. Remote areas exist where indoor plumbing and electricity are unknown, with no hope of ever enjoying these amenities that we take for granted. A government that fosters corruption and selfish ambition keeps the country stagnant. A land where a “give-me” mentality prevails over diligence and commitment.
Thoughts and views as seen from the resident raptor. Reflecting on life and the world as I see it.
