Bloodlines run strong among Ecuadorian families, but an occasional infusion is welcomed

I would be hard-pressed to name the 12 things I like best about living in Ecuador: tucked-away haunts serving coffee and munchies amid endless conversation, oases of beer and laughter nourishing those tumbling downhill towards the church, and clouds like unruly mobs crashing into thunder and lightning like car wrecks are only a few. After careful consideration, I decided to celebrate today, the ninth anniversary of my living in Ecuador, snoozing on the patio and recalling a few more of my favorite things. Here is one of my favorite…

I never tire of watching dads as they affectionately jostle their kids like a bag of rice balanced on their shoulders while chatting with friends on a street corner and moms mimicking a cathedral docent or mother hen, softly lecturing her children clutching a hem or hand as they shuffle along the crowded sidewalk. It was one of my earliest surprises when I moved here and remains one of my fondest. This simple, daily exercise of public affection underscores a standard of consideration for others that is central to daily life — and holds dominion over more mundane attachments like yakking on a cell phone or staring at a Facebook page.

Being surrounded by the daily expressions of love and caring for one another, as demonstrated by the people of Ecuador, is more than enchanting; it gives us strength and determination in a time fraught with dangers of the worst sort.

And how about those busy park benches? Sly teenagers are stealing kisses, couples are whispering about their dream of marriage, entangling their dreams and limbs together, and seniors, comfortable as alpaca fleece, kept warm by holding hands and commenting on the bundles of snuggling lovers.

Fortunately for all of us, Cuenca attracts many creative people who continue practicing their field of expertise by developing programs and investing in creating innovative applications vital to improving our lives.

Such is the case with Abby Osman.

Abby is investing in Cuenca on a molecular level. She understands that Cuenca’s bloodline is, in fact, blood. 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) required 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 and exhilarating exercises in community participation I’ve learned about recently.

Imagine how satisfying it would feel to be allowed 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 excellent!”

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