Video Shy Texas

There are so many ways that traveling in a city cargo van is working well for me.  Out of necessity, each day starts with quiet time in any public space where I can find an outlet to recharge my portable battery.  Today my charge time gave me the chance to have three separate encounters.  Three groups, three different views, all video shy.

The first was with two young hispanic girls and their male friend.  Though not terribly politically engaged, they felt that this election was confusing and they did not know who to trust.  They believed that the right person would win, but did not feel that they could or would be able to make an informed decision.

Next I spoke with Elizabeth.  She was articulate with a strong point of view, wearing a great hat.  Camera shy as well, she was willing to allow me to capture her words, if not her image.

And finally, I was honored to speak with three immigrants from Sudan.  These gentleman were in their 30’s and were especially wary of any pictures or video.  They were equally emphatic about their respect for and admiration of our electoral process.  They loved our free press and felt that the exchange of ideas, however messy was a good and healthy thing.  The expressed concern that so much of the coverage was ‘personal issues’ and hoped that voters would focus on policy.

Their complete lack of cynicism was a delight.  It was a good day.

Silver Moon Again

Recreating a journey ensures that you will encounter not only the unfamiliar, but the unexpected familiar.  That was the theme of my day.

As I made my way toward Texas, I turned off in Santa Rosa, New Mexico to get some gas and stretch my legs. I was focused on the gas station at the end of the road when a familiar cafe sign caught my eye as I passed.  The Silver Moon Cafe

It was the very same cafe that I first had the green chile stew that I mentioned in yesterday’s post.  I loved it so much, that it was one of the few food photos that I shared on that trip.  At the risk of being redundant,

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(I cannot help myself, please note the tablecloth on my post from 2008)

The wonderful woman who brought me this stew was Sandra Sisneros.  Though originally from Albuquerque, she loves the lakes and people of Santa Rosa.  She was kind enough to introduce me to her grandson, Fabian Salas.  Fabian was just diagnosed with a fractured tibia from playing football and was getting around admirably on his new crutches.  In 9th grade, Fabian is very tall and very insightful.  We talked at length about his love of writing, architecture and his desire to contribute something good to the world.  From where I sat, he is most the way there….

Our Lady of Guadalupe

Here I am Lord, it is I Lord
I have heard You calling in the night.
I will go Lord, if You lead me.
I will hold Your people in my heart.

If I felt out of place even for a moment at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church this morning, the first notes disavowed me of that feeling.  It was the 10:30 English mass and it began with one of my favorite hymns.  Extraordinary.

It is a humble setting, a bit in disrepair, but every pew full.  Father Miguel Campos spoke of gratitude and prayer, heavily accented through a poor microphone, his message came through loud and clear.  After the service, Fr. Campos went directly into the next of a total of 6 Sunday services he would officiate this day.  He kindly directed me to Linda Ortez and Stella, both liturgists who shared their concerns and hopes for their community.

In the spirit of better acoustics, I will be trying a new mic tomorrow and hope to improve in future posts.

Wishing you all a peaceful debate night.