“I cannot get your fried doughy goodness in LA, so in the short time I spent in Albuquerque, I stopped by as often as I needed.”
- Robert F. (2009)
This will be the first time I actually lined up places with specific questions in my head for when I visit. I will do so tomorrow or before I leave Albuquerque.
Right down the street is Lovelace Hospital for Women – and a very large medical center. For many of us and especially myself as I talk to people, it is hard to believe why people wouldn’t want health care (truly this is not a political question and I will not make it so). If we make health care a priority, then we will become healthier as a nation not only for children but for adults. I am ancient and so have gone through my share of illness in varying degrees. If it wasn’t for Medicare, I wouldn’t be on this trip and as healthy as I am. I also notice that this hospital contributes to the community including services to the homeless.
Also right down the street is the Evangel Christian Academy an adult bible school. It is time for me to knock on the door and have an open talk – not on religion – but what does christianity mean in today’s social issues. I do not want this to be a “I am right, you are wrong” discussion. I want to test my listening before I continue across country.
And my final choice is maybe the most real center in town. I noticed a Dunkin Donuts nearby and stopped in and bought a coffee. I did the same the next day as I had noticed a communal counter where if you sat there, you would almost have to talk to people. It seemed to be a mixed group of mostly women just a little younger than me. So I guess I will have to buy a donut and sit down if I want to make conversation.
And lastly, there is a large wonderful park nearby that includes a senior center. I will take my walk there and see if I can engage with the workers or those using the park – see who comes my way. Why do trees in other places seem so different than the trees in one’s home town?
Trees in an Albuquerque Park
