MD-19

Ghosts

Our stay in SMA is winding down, and we're looking at what's next. We may opt to spend more time in CDMX to get fully well. Our lingering colds over the past two weeks have brought a peculiar cast to our visit... typical frustrations, crankiness, tensions and feelings of being trapped and cooped up. The old ghosts that had quietly slipped into our pockets and come along with us for the ride took the ball on the bounce to make themselves more present.

Ghosts are opportunistic that way. I wonder if that opportunism could go both ways. Maybe we could take the ball on the bounce as well...

• Perhaps the manifestations of the ghosts offer an opportunity for Truth and Reconciliation.
• Perhaps they are tired of tagging along surreptitiously wherever we go.
• Perhaps they might be ready for release here in this bountiful place.
• Perhaps they might like it here... out, out you hungry ghosts.

They could hang out in the bougainvillea. (OK, I spelled it correctly - that must be a good sign.) Or they could make friends with the plentiful ghost peppers here and hang out with them and make a hot mess.

Inside

I had a lovely breakfast with Rafael Lopez, an illustrator and muralist who lives here, at the Inside Cafe. The food was great, the best Chilaquiles so far, the conversation was rolling and fun, and I caught a glimpse of an inside track in SMA. I still feel I haven't been able to get a proper handle in a hands-on way, and it was great to hear more about things vicariously.

Musical Sounds

Cool sounds from handmade instruments of all kinds, at a little workshop/store and residence. The water-filled bird whistle and a curious wailing instrument - 'so you don't cry alone' - were my favourites. As you tip the instrument, a sonorous crying begins, and the water slowly forms tears around the eyes.

As always, thanks for reading and indulging!
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