The Gift of Saying Yes
It's barely three in the afternoon, but today has brought me great comfort. That is to say, I’ve managed to be aware of my emotions and my surroundings. Also, I’d say that the short walk I took from my house to the ATM to pay the money I owed my landlord did me good, despite arriving panting like a dog and feeling a bit unsteady on my feet because of the heat.
I’ve had some difficulty accepting what is offered to me, no matter how small, I usually end up saying no. I don’t know the reason, nor what that might say about me; it’s simply a fact. However, since I moved here, I’ve been put in that situation more often. And although I’ve said no several times, now I dare to accept what is offered to me, even with uncertainty. That was the case today.
When I arrived, as I said, hot and panting after climbing the hill up to my house, the landlord was just preparing his meal and invited me to sit and eat with him. I thought about it, very clearly, too; I don’t usually pretend. But I encouraged myself and ended up enjoying a pleasant meal. I ate a delicious carrot purée with fresh bread; for the second course, fried cod and a salad of lettuce, onion, and tomato, which, although very simple, is my favorite especially in this summer season. For dessert, I decided to try his homemade flan made with egg and sugar, and I’m glad I did.
The food was good, but it was even nicer to hear my landlord talk about his children and his past. The cherry on top was the homemade shots he made and offered me, they were mint and orujo. At first, I said, “I shouldn’t drink,” but he picked up on the fact that I said “shouldn’t” instead of “won’t,” and I ended up having four.
The mint ones burned from the tongue down to the throat—they were refreshing. He told me that this shot had aphrodisiac properties, and that if you took them with a partner, you performed better in bed. I didn’t know that! The next shot was, how can I put it...warmer or denser on the tongue. It didn’t have the minty sting, but it was pleasant to drink. It tasted sour at first, but the aftertaste left in the mouth was sweet. These are shots I won’t taste the same anywhere else. After all, as I mentioned, the landlord makes them as a hobby after a period in which he couldn’t work due to health issues. I’m glad I didn’t turn down the second opportunity.
Soon, an aunt who asked me for a favor will arrive, and I gladly said yes (when people ask me for help, it’s easy for me to say yes). Lately, I haven’t had many chances to help someone—until yesterday and today.
Yesterday, I went with my grandparents to a warehouse to buy construction materials. There, a woman asked those of us who were around for help getting a box from a shelf. I was the first to offer, but when I approached, I saw doubt in her eyes. I could reach the box just fine, but I don’t have a very strong build, so I understand why she didn’t accept my help. Fortunately, my grandfather took the box down for her and helped her put it in her cart.
I hope another opportunity to help comes, and that I have the courage and ability to do it. I wonder what else I’ll experience today.