Thoughts

This city never stops. Even during la siesta, an afternoon time of rest and tea time, the streets are ecstatic with buses and busy bees. It seems exhausting, all of the chaos moving simultaneously, but it has a way of reminding me that there are so many other things going on besides what I'm involved in. It's loud, but sometimes it's easier for me to tune out the noise than to tune into the silence. Sitting on a park bench today with a book in hand was probably one of my favorite activities thus far-- sure, I read a few dozen pages, but I felt like I got more out of the experience of people watching than the story unfolding in the novel. (although the book is Shantaram-- I HIGHLY recommend it!!) The people here are a little paradoxical; while they emit warmth through their rolled r's and body language, the city is constantly on defense. Walking on the streets (more so at night than during the day) is like jumping into a jungle- you must be alert, aware, and stick to yourself. Socializing with others in broken spanish, in my case, is a great way of stamping FOREIGNER on my forehead and making myself vulnerable. It's peculiar to me though, considering there is so much kindness that's hidden behind the avoided eye contact and skiddish tendencies. It's rational for Argentine people to act like this unfortunately, because the inflation has increased so much recently that it's driven even the most sane to extreme measures- robbing their neighbors.That being said, I don't walk down the streets shaking with anxiety by any  means. Exploring the city is exciting and liberating, knowing that I'm in a place with so many opportunities and sights to see. Even though I've blazed my own trail to Appalachia for the past few summers, I've felt more independent and capable here than I ever have in my life. I'm extremely grateful that this city is being shared with me!


Sorry for that corny post, just had to throw it all out there :)