People

Helllllo all,
Still on the road, as it were... I am in Bogotá now, after having left the smaill town of San Augustín in search of thermal hot springs, and More. More action, or something. Actually, sometimes I´m not really sure what exactly it is that I am in search for, but somehow, whatever it is, it comes to me. Even if I don´t know or think I want it, things come and maybe just because they do, I need them. Laws of the Universe, right? That which we ask for comes to us- in some form or another...
Well, anyways.....
So I have met some of the most interesting people lately. From Canadian dairy farmers, to French dairy farmers, to LA music producers to wild eccentric Colombians. Each person is a new world. Each person comes from, lives in and will eventually return to another world. We all have our own colors, ideas and ways to shape the world around us. Sometimes we are lucky enough to find people with whom we can co-inhabit our worlds, and creat something. Other times we may just want them to get out. I have had many experiences where I have been approached by people who are really interested in the US, where I am from, and what I think about Colombia or Obama. And sometiems I just do not want to share that part of my world. But, I smile and stay vague,and politely back out of their galaxy so as not to get sucked in.
Its funny how conversations and relationships develop after a few drinks (family: don´t worry- I am NOT drinking to excess! and yes, I am still staying healthy...) But all of a sudden, after a few rounds, we are revealing secrets, and calling people our best friends, or whatever... The "Jesus drunk"- "I love you, man!".. But where does that come from? Do we really speak the truth when we are inebriated, or are we just fucking around because thats how people "act"? And why does it take alcohol to splash down the walls of sand that we build around ourselves? Alcohol is funny. I wish people smoked more pot. But, really, though. How many violent or dramatic or life threatending things can you think of that have resulted directly from marijuana intake? I can think of a few silly food combinations, and "deep" conversations, but not much else... hm.
Last night, I met this guy Dave from Virginia (and yes, Katie I for sure repped you and Roanoake :-)...). We took turns buying eachother beers and other drinks at the bar at our hostel, and then decided to hit the streets and go out for a little. So, we began to walk, and asked some locals where we could drink a good Chicha (a fermented corn wine drink. Better than it sounds?). And so, our homeless friend led us to a nice bar filled with Bogotá University students who heard us speaking English, and were immediately inthralled. Some of them were really anxious about practicint their English, but those who didn´t speak it just conversed with me in Spanish. This one guy was really interested as to why people fromthe US have interest in coming to Colombia, and what it was that I was "searching for" here in Bogotá. So, I rambled a bit about how nice the people are, how beautiful the country is, good food, "economical to live and stay" etc... But, honestly it was a little hard to give a straight answer. A lot of people in the US still think Colombia is really dangerous, and filled with drugs and crime. So why the hell did I want to come here??? no sé. Why the hell do I want to do anything??? Why do we decide to live every day, doing "things", telling "stories" and then doing it all again the next time the sun rises or sets? I Don´t Know. But, it sure can be fun, eh?
So, now that I am solo traveling, I have a lot more..... freedom? Just inthat I can decide on my own whim what to do, and let my own two feet guide me wherever. But, freedom is only one side of that. And even using the word "freedom" sounds like I wasnt free before or something. But, just the will to go somewhere or do something is ALL me. And its... nice. Its a little strange sometimes, though because I don´t ahve another opinion, advice and thoughts. Its all just me. So, thats been a little odd, but an overall pleasant experience. We´re either never alone, or always alone- depending on which way the pendulum swings. So, thats about it. I´ve been having fun, and realizing that I am on Vacation. And thats pretty nice.
Hope you´re all doing well, wherever you may be.
blessings.. Chau!