The People of Colombia

One of the most noticable aspects of Colombia is that people are outside congregating and socializing everywhere. Of course we generate a certain amount of intrigue as we speed through town in a police-escorted caravan. But even if you look back into the side streets, families and neighbors are on the streets and porches interacting. It makes one think that maybe the TV generation in the U.S. has caused us to lose something as we grow more isolated and socialize less and less in our neighborhoods. In Colombia, many were forced into isolation in their homes in hopes of avoiding violence. They seem to truly enjoy the newfound freedom provided by the present increase in safety.

Everywhere we go, the residents are watching us, sizing us up much as we are them. But they are also reaching out to us and looking to engage us, despite the language barrier. I though I'd share with you a few of the thousands of friendly faces we have seen in our travels.