I've just returned from five days in Quito. It was a daily hike through steeply (often 30 degree) inclined cobblestoned streets in thin (9,000' high) air. Quito was built high in the Andes where level street are rare. As I wobbled along, I remember something I once read: " That which doesn't kill you will make you stronger". I'm home and I'm fit.
The historic part of Quito is fascinating and I visited a church larger and more impressive than Notre Dame. Much of what I saw is of the third world and Socialism has great appeal for people who have very little. I witnessed a large rally in the main square denouncing the current government and calling for the Socialists to form a new government. Portraits of Fidel were everywhere.
I stood atop the Equator, part of me in the northern hemisphere, part of me in the southern hemisphere. It's silly stuff like this that gives me a kick. The trip to Quito was sweet, the return to Miami was slightly sour.
For some reason I made someone suspicious and I was told to step aside for additional questioning. My luggage consisting of one carry-on piece was scoped again and I was asked many dumb questions over and over. After about 20 minutes I got irritated and suggested that my one piece of luggage be opened and emptied and that I be allowed to turn out my pockets. On hearing this my interrogator told me I was "free to go".
The irritation I feel at being rousted is still with me but the irritation will soon fade. My positive feelings for a wonderful trip will remain. And now, to bed.
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