Saturday, July 23, 2016

Day 23 - Boxboys


Some thoughts on going to the local grocery store.

The first thing I must admit is that I am glad these grocery stores exist.  Back in the 80s there were very few really good places to buy food.  Most of my food was bought in the markets (open-air markets) and butcher shops that smelled pretty bad. 
Living off of missionary support, there were months I had enough to pay rent and pay to get to school.  I was left with eating potatoes for most of the month.  Supporting your missionaries with more than prayers is vital.  They need your financial support too.  That is the reason I have decided to live off of my retirement for as long as I can, so you guys can support a missionary.


Today Fidalga, across the street, is a jam-packed little market that has fresh, frozen, boxed, and canned foods.  It is pretty much like our grocery stores though smaller and more crowded.  Because of it, I really don’t see a reason to buy food in Siete Calles or Ramada, the open-air markets near me.  There are a few things more expensive, but most things are not. 

There is one thing about the store that I love; the boys who sack the groceries.  That is mostly because of one boy, Elian.  I had bought a little too much one day, so I was going to leave something behind and come back for it.  This boxboy said he’d carry it out for me.  I said I lived a block away.  He shrugged his shoulder and grabbed all the heaviest bags.  We walked to my apartment, up the elevator, and to my door.  He would have unpacked for me if I had let him.  All the other boys have been that courteous.
I have no idea what to tip them.  I gave him a 10 Bs., but that is about $1.50.  Maybe I should do more.
This gives me faith that there are still people who are being raised right in this world.

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