Outside the window of my second story studio, a young man sits on the stoop next door with his 3-4 year old daughter. Diego and Lis sit there most days for several hours with their basket of nuts and candy, inviting passersby to peruse their wares. They adore each other. He often cradles her in his lap and tickles her, and she makes funny faces while touching his cheeks. I often hear her laughing when I’m painting. Periodically, the two will be joined by Diego’s wife and their <1 year old girl. Diego checks her basket and replenishes it. They share a meal. Chat. Eat. Then she disappears to her spot. They are a lovely family. I don’t sense any measure of fear, despair or hopelessness. I should be more like Diego.

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