Como Mexico es Mejor

Over the past year I've had a lot of time to contemplate life. Indeed I have learned and experienced so much more than I could ever put in writing.
Moving out of the United States was the best thing we could have done for our family, our relationship as a married couple, and my own personal and spiritual growth. There is something liberating about picking up, leaving your home and most of what you're familiar with, along with all your "stuff" behind, and moving to an unfamiliar country. I have opened eyes, and a new perspective. I reflect back to when we first arrived Lakeside, and how I wanted to turn right around and go back to Utah. Now I can say I am so glad we endured the adjustment and decided to stay and face the challenges of truly living outside our comfort zones. Although there are many benefits to living in the United States, living in Mexico (Lakeside) has many benefits as well. Since most people reading this blog already know the benefits of living in the United States, I've decided to mention why Mexico is better. I've limited myself to 10 reasons.

1. Mexico has a free market! Something the United States used to have, but is rapidly dwindling due to overwhelming government regulation and mandates. A free market is the best way to go. Anybody in Mexico can open a shop out of their home,or hit the streets to sell their goods. They don't need to have a license to sell Tamales from their home or on the street. Choices are left up to the buyer. Note: Caveat emptor! Buyer beware.

2. Zoning laws? What are those? For example, there is a tienda right across the street from our home. The kids often run over to get treats. A few houses down the street are a few more tiendas where we can buy milk and other items. Here, it's not uncommon to see a house, tienda, house, tienda etc.

3. Medical and Dental. Prices for a doctor visit, to a specialist run 300 pesos (that's approx. 30 dollars). You are treated like a living, breathing human being with feelings. A cleaning and dental exam from a Dentist is about 250 pesos (about $25 USD). Once again, you're not an insurance number here, and therefore you're not treated like one. Prices are so reasonable, there's no need for medical or dental insurance.

4. For people who need medication, you can get most of them over the counter. No need to go to a doctor for a prescription. People are agents unto themselves and are able to ask the pharmacist for what they need. This keeps prices low.

5. Why would you need medication with all of the fresh fruits and vegetables available here year round at great prices? It costs more to eat junk/convenient food anyway.

6. You haven't had a taco until you've had one from the lady who sells them at the San Antonio plaza.

7. The Weather is so great, there is no need for air conditioning or heating. Utilities include electricity, gas, and telephone.

8. Overall, eating out is less expensive.

9. Forget drive through car washes. Someone is usually eager to wash your car for a good price while your do your shopping or eat out. Talk about multi-tasking!

10. Sorry friends...The News? And why do you think I should watch it? You see, maybe the anxiety level here is low/non-existent because people (myself included) don't end their day by watching the evening news about all the "imaginary crap" going on around them. I must admitt that my addiction to watching the news took a few months to wear off. I wasn't able to quit "cold turkey", however, I am no longer suffering from withdrawls.

I am so thankful for the opportunities I've had to learn and grow in this new place which feels progressively more like home to me. In simplifying, I've found enrichment!