November 22, 2017
As
I am sitting in class, reflecting on how no one will turn on the heat since it
was 70 degrees yesterday and I’m freezing, I’m dreaming about a warmer,
relaxing climate. My mind takes me to one of my favorite tropical spots:
Zihuatanejo, Mexico. My dad and I have been going to Zihuat since I was in 7th
grade, and we always stay at the same hotel each time. The view from the rooms
are so serene, and the beach the hotel sits on is quiet and unpopulated. The
employees at the hotel make you feel at home. As soon as you walk in, there is
a small, bubbling fountain in the middle of the lobby, and someone hands you a
cold wash cloth scented with eucalyptus oil. There are no annoying patrons or
screaming children here, just peace. The rooms only have air conditioning in
one room, while most of them have open-air terraces and living rooms. At night,
the crashing waves can lull you to sleep.
One
of the unique employees at the hotel is Miguel, whom we nicknamed Tarzan. Well,
Miguel is not really an employee of the hotel, but he helps out the hotel when
he can and is able to use their facilities. Miguel was born and raised in
Zihuatanejo. Miguel rents out oceanic sporting equipment to tourists on the
beach, but he has become quite a legend around Zihuatanejo. From his years on
the beach, he has dark tan leathered skin, and a smile that has been brightened
by the sun. Miguel is kind to everyone, and understands the ocean well. Like he
has said before, “I am one with the ocean.” He understands the ebbs and flows
of the ocean, and the gifts and curses the ocean can bring. One day, when my
dad and I were lounging on the beach, we met this family who was from Europe.
Peace and quiet brought them to Zihuatanejo, the same reasons as us. The wife
we had met decided to venture off into the warm ocean water. All of a sudden,
however, she fell down and began crying out in pain. Miguel immediately took
off after her and carried her back to one of the lounging chairs. The woman had
been stung by a sting ray. He then began racing around, making a concoction of
sand, sea weed, and other items I cannot remember. He slabbed this elixir onto
her foot, and held it their tightly for at least forty-five minutes until a
doctor arrived. I always knew Miguel was knowledgeable and kind, but he had
truly just performed a selfless and heroic deed. Miguel did not panic and knew
exactly how to handle the situation.
My
dad and I also respect Miguel as a human. He has no desire to be monetarily
wealthy. He is rich because of his positive perspective on life and belief in
God. Miguel, my dad, and I have had many deep conversations, even if Miguel
does speak broken English. It’s amazing how you can connect with a person through
nature all because they taught you how to paddle board in the ocean or took you
on a fishing excursion. Miguel has taught me to appreciate Mother Earth and
everything that she gives, and that our time here on Earth is limited. He truly
lives each day to the fullest and happiest. He believes there’s no time for
negativity because of all of the blessings God has gifted to us. I always love
going back down to Mexico and spending time with Miguel, appreciating nature
and friendship all in one place.
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