Why Mexico? Finding the courage to pursue one's dreams.

I am sure you all have been asked the same question asked of me by friends, from both north and south of the Mexican-American border. Why Mexico? Each of us has a multitude of motivations, explanations, rationalizations, justifications or circumstances, that either permitted or enticed us south of the border. Some respond with weather, finances, adventure, climate, culture, or travel, or . . . you name it. Reasons that are all valid and on the part of the responder, most sincere.

Living in Mexico affords us all to a certain degree, regardless of previous monetary success, the opportunity to enjoy the country and all it so graciously offers.

Each one of us, stemming from sundry and often dissimilar geographical locations, occupations, backgrounds, and lifestyles, has migrated south to exciting places offering a multitude of cultural and social opportunities, charming lakes or hillside pueblos that provide tranquillity. Colonial hide-a-ways abundant with cultural and artistic resources, warm and welcoming beach sanctuaries. Each in our individual quest, with varied degrees of subsistence, but all with a couple of commonalties; an adventurous spirit and a desire for a finer quality of life.

We have mustered the courage to pursue our dreams and conquered the urgency that once metered out the pace of our previous lives. We have outdistanced the rat race and are free to explore an abundance of opportunities . . . at our own pace. But why Mexico?

Look to the people for the answer. Here is a culture that lives for today, not tomorrow. A people who take the best from the past and couple it with a fervent but not apprehensive hope for the future. A people who have learned the value of enjoying the moment, the day, and all it encompasses. A people who inhale the breath of life exuberantly, who take the time to savor the sounds, smells, and tastes around them, who swim in the sparkle of a childs eyes, a people whose character and attitude prevail against all adversity. If this spirit could be summarized in one word, I would select enjoyment.

This quality of mind, soul and attitude was summed up on a street vendors T-shirt: "Start Slow . . Then Taper Off!"

Disfrute, mis amigos!