Sharing the love, sharing the blood in Cuenca

One of the many head games I play while wandering in the kaleidoscope of mayhem surrounding the Rotary Market is imagining (and occasionally wildly exaggerating) the personal lives of couples who capture my attention. High on my list of likely suspects are couples who are not shy about casually displaying a few of the more delightful rituals of inseparable affection that each has honed over their shared years of pain and jubilation. I am always intrigued by their hearts and minds.

I never tire of watching dads carrying their kid like a bag of rice casually slung over, or riding atop, their shoulders, and moms, mimicking a cathedral docent, head down and covered, shambling along while softly lecturing children who are clutching a hem or hand as they make headway through the crowded plaza. It is one of my earliest and most endearing comforts of living here, and remains one of my fondest.

These simple, daily exercises of public affection underscores the high standard of consideration for others that is central to daily life in Cuenca — and holds dominion over more mundane attachments, like scrolling on a cell phone.

Unreserved demonstrations of affection for kin and close friends is a rarity where I hail from; that is a shame.

Being surrounded by the kindness of strangers is not uncommon here; it is captivating.

And, how ‘bout them park benches? Sly teenagers are stealing kisses, older couples, hoping to marry soon, are entangling their dreams and limbs. Seniors, comfortable under a cherished fleece blanket woven years ago by a favorite great uncle in Otavalo, hold hands and comment on the bundles of snuggling lovers whispering their commitment to one another in words so sweet even the bees noticed.

It is delightful.

I cannot recall all of the many acts of kindness that cupped me, that drew my blood to the surface, encouraging me to make my home in this vibrant community. And, I am thankful to DM at CHL for allowing me the opportunity to intrude into the daily lives of people whose families have lived here since Moses was in the third grade; their eager affection illuminates a dream, a technicolor dream of a future that is no longer tethered to the oppressive legacies of abuse and enslavement.

Yes, you can rest here. You can also find many little treasures, including the fact that you can make this place your home, your nest, or a convenient rest stop as you feel fit.

You have time to take the time to stop and smell the roses. Take advantage of it.

Abby Osman is investing in Cuenca on a molecular level. She understands that the bloodline of Cuenca is, in fact, blood. And, she has taken it upon herself to develop a volunteer registry of folks willing to share their blood with those in critical need. You can participate in this essential service by simply contacting and filling out a short Red Cross (comunicacion@cruzroja.org.ec) questionnaire (65+ seniors need not apply), regarding basic health, age, and of course, blood type. Once you have it, contact Abby.

This is one of the most important exercises in community participation I’ve learned of in all my years here and one of the most exhilarating.

Imagine what it would feel like to be given the opportunity to save a life. I’m betting it would be, to borrow a phrase from two of my most inspirational heroes, Bill and Ted, “Most triumphant!”

Be excellent to each other.

Abby can be reached via email. ybba503@gmail.com