It seems that as soon as I actually turned 30 the writing ceased.
It wasn't on purpose. I'll blame it on the planets and stars. I am back.
Yet, the location has changed. I am now in the heart of the midwest learning about the shift in demand for brats when the price of beef falls. Well kind of. I am in the thick of economics courses that intend to bring me closer to my foreseen masters in International Development. I came to Wisconsin to stay with my brother, his wife, and two lovely children - to bond with family - while studying for the GRE, getting school applications together and taking necessary classes. Facing monumental school fees I panicked and got a job. Two in fact. I am waiting tables at two shwanky restaurants. I have not been this rooted down to a place for awhile. I mean, I even have a bus pass!
Just this past weekend I traveled to Guatemala for the 10 year celebration of Safe Passage. Days filled with reunions of every type, memories, blessings... it fueled me. I was reminded of my love for Guatemala and the people and that quite literally it feels like home.
The Safe Passage b-boy break dancing group performed in Antigua's central park as part of the celebrations. They drew a huge crowd as they playfully battled with their talented moves. The confidence and pure enjoyment evident in every dance move was contagious and inspiring. At one point I was called out to *battle* dance with two of the Guatemalan teen girls in the dance group. I looked at my friend Shannon who is a great dancer and said "there is no way I'm doing this alone." We jumped behind a bush and made up some choreography that would hopefully pass with the right addition of sassitude. We brought it. And I ended up with legs bruised and a knot in my shoulder the size of a golf ball... all completely worth it! It was a moment that captured what Safe Passage is truly about. I am pretty sure that the kids partaking in the breakdancing would most likely be named to a gang by now if they hadn't found this outlet to express. It sounds as cheesy as a late 80's movie plot, but in this case it is beautifully true.
Now back in Madison, with leaves popping crimson and gold, the obligations of school and work marking my days, and the promise of winter before me... I am intrigued by this new path. This path that has tried to buck me along the way as it turns from one direction to the next without much warning. It is definitely a ride, and I find, one that is full of meaning.
Everything happens for a reason, thank goodness for those planets and stars.
