Rain is slashing against my window as seagulls play in updrafts this morning. Mid January in Halifax isn’t exactly a typical winter scene, but then again nothing is as it was when it comes to earth’s weather patterns.
I am in the final days of preparation before my flight to Mazatlán, Mexico. It will be a homecoming of sorts, having spent almost two months there last winter. I am eagerly anticipating warm (not hot) sunshine, excellent seafood, long walks along the malecon and beaches and spectacular sunsets. And yet, a different kind of Mazatlán was portrayed by the world’s media last week as one of the top leaders of the Sinaloa cartel was recaptured by the Mexican government. And the picture was entirely false.
Yes, El Raton (The Mouse) Guzman was captured, and there was violence, however none of it occurred within the city of Mazatlán. In fact, the only incident anywhere nearby was on one of the highways that was closed down during the fracas. No buses were burnt (the person interviewed by the Canadian media was found to have lied). No bullets flying, no one murdered.
Out of an abundance of caution, people were asked to stay home, and businesses and schools closed their doors in compliance. Airports and major highways were shut down. Cars and taxis pulled off of the normally-busy streets. In other words, everyone did as asked, and the next day it was business as usual.
Life is random. People get murdered in my town with alarming regularity. Folks get mugged at ATMs. And millions of people in Mexico and all over the world walk the streets, sip coffee in cafes and hike on mountain tops taking in the spectacular beauty of this precious planet. Do what makes you happy.
Your grand life adventure continues. Really looking forward to reading your updates. And seeing the photos. Enjoy every minute!
I really enjoy your observations of life, Susan. Indeed, forge ahead and soak it all in. Be happy!