Much of my December felt geared towards either the planning my trip to Ecuador, or was spent visiting two of my dearest friends in Ecuador with the Livingstons — a family for whom I am always grateful.
As my primero visit to Ecuador, it was necessary to learn some Spanish. I studied French for a couple of semesters during college; needless to say, I haven’t remembered much and it wasn’t very helpful. The only exception being language club that we attended Tuesday night — a mix of English, Spanish, French and German being practiced. Qué chévere!
In an effort to continue learning and in hopes of remembering Spanish, this blog is dedicated to my top five (known) Spanish verbs:
- aprender [to learn] – Whether I’m in a country where the culture is new or walking down my own street in Detroit, vulnerability and curiosity will change me.
- hacer [to make / to do] – I was asked on this trip ‘who do you want to be?’ rather than the familiar question of ‘what do you want to be?’. Creative. That was the first characteristic to come to my mind. Although not a blank canvas, Detroit affords its tenants and visitors to express themselves. Listo.
- compartir [to share] – Food, of course. Several possibilities stem from this word, but this form will be my forever favorite. Three separate Ecuadorian families prepared meals for us and welcomed us. I cannot wait to bring home their recipes and hospitality. Let’s just say that there will be fewer plátanos verdes in Detroit.
- doler [to hurt] – Calf cramps that persisted through two games of soccer. The consistent headache from immediate immersion. Looming thoughts of leaving a simple place to return to one of stark volatility. To persevere and practice resilience are acts that transcend cultural divides.
- bailar [to dance] – Spinning in circles with strangers in front of the stage on the Galapagos Islands. Private salsa lessons with Sara’s instructor. A toast after almuerzo with Sara’s host family that led to a circle of goofy moves and laughter. A simple resolution to bring to Detroit is to wake up each morning and be free.
I am not certain when my next trip to Ecuador will be, but I am excited for what it will hold and how we can continue to learn from one another.
A rooftop view from Sara and Kimmi’s apartment in Ibarra, Imbabura, Ecuador.