- Joined
- May 1, 2015
- Messages
- 7,802
- Reaction score
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- Location
- Texas
- Gender
- Male
- Political Leaning
- Libertarian - Right
About thirty years ago, I visited slums 80% as a death wish, 20% as a roll of the dice to find friendly people. When locals tell me to avoid such and such a place, I do the opposite. It has always paid off big time. I don't mean in just a vulgar way either. The thing about slum dwellers is that many of them always have time for you. They are not very ambitious people and are often complacent about their circumstances. The funny thing is that they seem less distressed than people here in the USA. Being around them for awhile is actually quite a refreshing experience. They are the exact opposite of the anal retentive, passive-aggressive twits one finds in the corridors of Corporate America.
More recently, I have spent time with people who recently escaped Venezuela. It seems to make them feel worthwhile when I buy them lunch and tell them "I enjoy your company as much as you're enjoying that meal". Every last one of them has fascinating stories to tell.
Thankfully, in a couple of weeks time and money will line up to have another trip. My last trip was to Cucuta; my next will be to Maicao. To humor my wife, we will spend some days in Cartagena and Santa Marta on the way.
More recently, I have spent time with people who recently escaped Venezuela. It seems to make them feel worthwhile when I buy them lunch and tell them "I enjoy your company as much as you're enjoying that meal". Every last one of them has fascinating stories to tell.
Thankfully, in a couple of weeks time and money will line up to have another trip. My last trip was to Cucuta; my next will be to Maicao. To humor my wife, we will spend some days in Cartagena and Santa Marta on the way.
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