Reggie's borderlinks

    Before the trip to Nogales, the few images I had in my mind were picturesque of locations like Cabo San Lucas or Puerto Vallarta. I expected to see a lot of tourists carrying their bargains or retirees in line front of the farmacia or pharmacy. This was my first time to be in Mexico and was very anxious to witness the stories my friends share with me.
    Mexico has been typified as a Third World country. However, as soon as I met the local people of Nogales, there was no doubt in my mind they were far more hospitable and civil as any big industrialized nation. Many would argue how backward or disorganized this southern border has become. I would reply and claim that despite the lack of federal support i.e. police, welfare, education, and power grid I commend them for their ability not only to survive but grow.
    Nogales has grown to a size that it is incapable of supporting itself. This is a problem common to all growing cities like Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and Phoenix. Due to overcrowding, problems like traffic congestion, resource depletion, and unemployment becomes an illness difficult to resolve. In this light, we see a choice unmistakably clear. A choice anyone would do. A choice that I would do and that is to pursue a better life.
   

           Still many Mexicans turn away from migrating to their northern border. I asked a lady with her friends if things were better in Nogales would she stay? The answer was a resounding-yes! Kiko Trujillo, a local of Nogales, is a living testimony of how one person’s vision can surpass one’s own expectation. With the option to emigrate legally into the U.S., He chose to offer his skill and knowledge to remain in Nogales and help his fellow countrymen. A vision when combined with the will of their people signifies strength that inspires community spirit, prosperity, and self-reliance.