Introduction
At 80 years old, I have spent most of my life in Mexico City, with only brief periods abroad for work and study. I am deeply in love with all things Mexican – its landscapes, history, and rich cultural heritage stemming from indigenous, Spanish, and Italian roots. I find it absurd to apologize for who we are; we are the product of two cultures integrating.
Appreciation for Mexican Culture
My affection for Mexico extends to its music, internationally acclaimed cuisine, and renowned craftsmanship. I am proud of the Spanish language, which I consider one of the most poetic and sweet.
Mexico City, my beloved city, is the only place I wish to reside. Though it faces challenges – increased littering, neglected parks, potholes, and frequent flooding – I cherish its people. Despite their struggles, Mexicans remain resilient, striving to improve their lives through various means – street vendors, entrepreneurs, laborers, and more.
Concerns for Mexico’s Future
While I am proud to be Mexican, I am deeply concerned about the state of my country. Education has been in shambles for over 50 years, and simply repairing schools or offering scholarships won’t fix it. The focus remains on the past rather than preparing for the future.
Healthcare systems are inadequate, with only institutions like IMSS and ISSSTE escaping political whims. Half the population lacks genuine access to healthcare and social security. Government inefficiency hinders development, trapping 70% of impoverished youth in a cycle of poverty due to limited opportunities.
Mexico’s infrastructure, especially its roads, is deteriorating. The government plans to invest 10,000 million pesos, but the impact remains uncertain.
Corruption and complicity within the private sector disgrace me. Politicians abusing power for personal gain infuriate me, and I am ashamed that Mexico is among the world’s most violent countries. Seeing other nations thrive fuels my envy.
Personal Responsibility and Hope
As a public servant for 37 years, I participated in various civic organizations and remain untarnished by corruption or power abuse. I believe Mexico has the potential to become a developed nation, but the current government’s path won’t lead us there.
Confrontation and power concentration won’t propel progress. President Claudia Sheinbaum still has a chance to unite the nation and abandon confrontational tactics, though I doubt her capacity to do so.
Key Questions and Answers
- What does the author love about Mexico? He cherishes Mexico’s landscapes, history, cultural heritage, music, cuisine, craftsmanship, and the Spanish language.
- What concerns does he have about Mexico? He is worried about the state of education, healthcare, government inefficiency, corruption, violence, and infrastructure.
- What is his perspective on the current government? He believes the government’s path won’t lead Mexico to development and that confrontation hinders progress.
- What role does he see for President Claudia Sheinbaum? He hopes she can unite the nation and move away from confrontational tactics, though he doubts her ability to do so.
