The beautiful city of Oaxaca, Mexico

We are vacationing in Oaxaca, Mexico right now. Oaxaca is in the southwestern part of the country and is known for its historical sites dating back to 600 BC. Oaxaca is also known because the artisans in the mountains bring their products to the markets here. They do beautiful handwork both in cloth and in jewelry.

The main industry of Oaxaca is tourism. However, for the past year there have been very few tourists. This is because of the demonstrations there have been against the government. For a year now the U.S. government has issued warnings saying that Americans should not visit Oaxaca. Recently it has been more safe and so we thought we would come.

It feels very safe. However, the other evening there were several hundred police with heavy plastic shields. The university students and students in the elementary and secondary schools were free for the day and the police were afraid there would be more riots and demonstrations.

Because of the lack of tourists the show owners aren't selling enough to keep their families alive and well. The people weave wonderful rugs and it is customary for the buyer to bargain with them. If we don't bargain we are being condescending. Still, I am always afraid that I might bargain too much. Yesterday we bought two rugs. We proceded to bargain the way we are supposed to. After the deal was closed and I had paid, I asked, "Did I give you enough money so that it is a good deal for you?" The rug seller said, "You have made my whole day a very happy one." So we were both pleased.

The world is such an unfair place. Many of us eat too much while others starve.

Give liberally and be ungrudging when you do so, for on this account the Lord your God will bless you in all your work and in all that you undertake.

- Deuteronomy 15:10