Citizen of Riberalta

Written on 1/20/08

Last night was a good time of thinking deeper and placing myself into situational thought. I don’t think I do this enough – abroad or in the States. It’s so incredibly beneficial in the development of tolerance when we put ourselves in other’s shoes.

As I downed my evening’s dose of grilled chicken, I spent time focusing on the busy street in front of me and the people that brought its energy. The motorcycles that zipped by. The brother and sister racing in the crowded street by bicycle while going the wrong way! The perpetually constant stream of customers circulating in and out of the small-goods store. The men gathered around the television watching the fútbol game. The trash in the street. The run-down buildings. This would become my reality for these moments. I would be a dweller of Riberalta, Bolivia. It seems that life would be just fine.

“My only exposure to the ‘good life’ has been in the movies, and I have no conception of this even being a remote possibility in my life. My life is in Riberalta, and I will always be in Riberalta. Our food is good. We often have the same thing, so it’s always a joy when we are able to have something different. Everyday, I work long, hard hours so that I can provide. My work is physically grueling, but I enjoy spending time with the guys and my family afterwards. This is my life. I will never go further than several hours outside of Riberalta. Life is good. I have friends, family, shelter, and food. This is my reality. I would trade it for riches, but I’m content as it is.”

I would like to think that the words above would be my approach to living in Riberalta. I wonder if those that live here even see its filth. Do they understand the discomforts of the mosquitoes, heat, and humidity in this jungle? I suspect that the adults do but tend to forget of them. Then, I wonder if I’m maybe the one that doesn’t recognize the settings I live in and its discomforts.

Imagine the difference of living standard in 2008 compared to 1908 in the United States. Even the wealthiest had no idea of what they were missing or, rather, what they would be missing. Instead, they accepted life as it was with the positive psychology that they “had it all.” For all of us, a “next level” exists, whether in the here and now or the future. These levels never cease.

We must come to understand that contentment may come at all levels of this spectrum without discrimination, assuming necessities are cared for. If our complete focus is on that next level, then the heart will find no contentment at present. Our current surroundings show their beauty. We simply need to open our eyes and see!

Such contentment as this does not drain our motivation to increase our living standard. After all, this seems to be a universal urge. Rather, this specific contentment brings the understanding that our livelihood is not based on attaining the level beyond us. No, contentment is here. It is now. Look before you!

Just as the Bolivian man finds comfort in his impoverished life, you too can find comfort in your impoverished life. This is my journey. Come along with me!

TS