A Simple Act

While visiting a small-town annual festival in the Sierra Madre mountains in Mexico, I had the opportunity to photograph some of the residents who were relaxing in the square as the day began.  Music, food, and family interactions which are the essence of all fiestas in Mexico were in just getting underway.

While his friend was getting an outdoor haircut, Luis relaxed on a low wall close by.  There was banter back and forth as teens do and Luis occupied his hands showing off his ball-handling skills spinning a basketball on his finger.  Over and over and over again.  After watching the friends for a while, I introduced myself during a break in conversation and asked if I might photograph them.  Luis (I asked his name first) smiled and responded with a proud “Por supuesto”…of course.  After making several images of him, I thanked them for their time and Luis got up to leave.  Before stepping off the porch and bidding his friend Adios, he turned to me and said with a broad smile “Vaya con Dios.”

I know this is a small gesture and one that is common in Mexico, but to me, it meant much more than a sign-off.  To hear a teen who had taken the time to allow me to photograph him and then send me off with a “go with God” touched me.  This young man’s act reminds me that the next generations act as they have been taught to act.  And that simple acts of respect for others and kindness for a stranger still make a difference.