THE PICNIC

11 July

As it has been with many of our other experiences with Maria, today was another first in her life; a picnic in a park. Parque Amistad is only a mile from her room and that was our destination. Marge and I, Marie, our church youth group leader, and two of the girls, made our way south on a very hot day to this beautiful park just inside the Mexican border. Maria was ready and waiting. The Wednesday before at Carlos’ for a brace fitting, she told me that because of her recent health problems she might not go today. “Today I feel good and would like to go with you on a picnic. Manuel and Javy are ready also.”We all piled into Marie’s large van and off we went. We found a lovely shady spot with a grill and picnic table and settled in. Immediately the boys hit the swings and the two girls, Shelly and Brigitte, went over to check out the lake and the paddleboat rentals. $3 for 30 minutes. It wasn’t long before the boys and the girls were out on the lake. “Oh, that is expensive, $25 pesos.” It is ok, Maria, today the boys are having fun. Enjoy this beautiful place, the scenery, and the cool breeze.” It is so peaceful here, with the water and the cool breeze coming through the trees. My little room is so hot these days. “Don’t talk about that sad little room, I thought. You’ll make me cry. The three looked like they had been through a washing machine, so clean they were.” I got up at seven and got the boys out to the back of my room, where they washed. I washed also to be ready for you. Look, David, Javy is wearing pants that you brought

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and Manuel is wearing a shirt from you also.” I had forgotten what clothes went where. The little Indian lady forgets nothing.

We all were thoroughly enjoying this quiet time together. Maria and Marie have always been closed, in age, and both with two boys. Maria had many questions for Marie; “you are so young, (actually, Marie is one year older at 36), and so slim, do you play sports? Were you afraid to bring the boys to Tijuana today?” No, Maria, since we moved I have had a very long drive and it would be too much for me with the boys. Maria is building her knowledge about many things these days; American women being one of her subjects. Marge went through a similar treatment. If you pass her test, and these two certainly have, your place is secure in her heart.

“Magie, Magie, Magie.” Her love for Marge explodes with her every word.

While the others were busy, Marie and I took Maria for a stroll around the lake. It was longer than I thought a mile or more. We chatted, enjoyed the geese and ducks playing in the water, and took in the scenery. The hustle and bustle of border traffic, street noises, and Saturday commercial business were just outside the park. We were on an island of green and peacefulness. Do we ever think about sitting constantly, hardly ever-rising and walking? I am reminded when I see Maria raise herself in the chair and stretch. Those strong arms push up to change position and then relax to where she has spent her life. Never questioning, never resentful. Besides, her American family keeps her busy going places and meeting new friends. I know, I know, “you and Magie have changed my life.”

The boys were hungry, the fire was going, here we go, let’s eat. Hot dogs, soda, chips, cakes, the usual “junk” food. But, tasty! Marge brought a chicken breast for Maria; we wanted no problems with her stomach. The boys attacked the food; 2, 3, 4, who knows how many hotdogs. Manuel said he had five. Good! Those uneaten 168

will go back to Guillermo Prieto. And, the rolls and whatever else is left. Those two boys eat like there is no tomorrow. The package of chicken from Marge on Wednesday is gone. From week to week I can literally see that two grow. Remember the salad dressing Marge made for Maria? Maria still uses it on all the vegetables. The boys love it.

Maria gets so upset at the boys at times. They seem to have forgotten all her efforts at good manners, politeness, and being good boys. Do not worry, Maria, they are normal boys. Your teaching will return someday. It is there in their heads and hearts. Given the circumstances of their lives, Maria could win a “motherof-the-year” award in a waltz.

Brigitte and Shelly were hitting it off well with the boys. They joked and played well together; no phonies in this quartet. Marie has done a wonderful job with the youth these past ten years. I am hard-pressed to remember one youth in all these years that was not well behaved. Marie has always brought out the best in her group. That is why Maria loves her as she does. The three M’s have substance. M+Ms may be good candy. We have sometimes far better M + M + M!

Our visit was drawing to a close; Marie has a very long drive to her new home north of San Diego and we had spent three hours enjoying ourselves. Marie is leaving the youth group to devote more time to her two boys. Maria knows; the two hugged each other for a long time. Will you come to Maria’s to celebrate her new house? “Oh, yes, I shall be happy to visit her.”

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