This year I am spending Christmas and New Year’s in Mexico. For anyone born in the United States, Mexico is a culture shock. Forget the big tourist cities like Guadalajara and Cancun. Instead, picture a “pueblo” or “rancho.” Dirt roads, sugarcane fields, no central air or heat, and everyone knows your business. Life passes slower here. Everyday is fresh tortillas made by the lady down the street. Another lady makes freshly squeezed orange juice. Down in the plaza, another gentleman makes churros that make my mouth water just writing about it.
This year is a little different because of COVID-19. Yet, in this pueblo you wouldn’t know it except for the few that wear masks. It’s business as usual because unlike in the United States, Mexico does not have unemployment benefits or stimulus packages. Here, if you don’t work you don’t eat. And the only panhandlers begging in the street are the actual lame and blind that truly cannot work. And yet only a few have gotten the virus. No deaths. To be fair they did have a lockdown in the beginning. Though not everyone followed the rules. Also the schools here in this pueblo are online until the end of January.
The people here do not expect the government to swoop in and save them. They work hard to make a living. Some are fortunate enough to receive money from relatives in the United States. Those who leave and come back know how hard life is here and are generous.
It is easy to see why people risk their lives to cross the border into the United States. They see hope and a way to a better life. However, the United States is not responsible for Mexico or its people. Just like Mexico does not treat a foreigner like me with any special consideration. Every country has its rules and borders.
Our government proposes open borders and abolishing ICE. In an effort to tear down our nationality, our government threatens the very laws designed to keep us safe. It promises free healthcare, free education, and free assistance for all. The truth is nothing is free. And since the government has nothing of its own, it depends on the citizens to carry the load.
Before our government reaches out to other countries, let it first tend to the needs of its own country.