Small Moments

The moments that tend to stand out to me the most are the "small moments." These small moments remind me of Pointillism, which (according to Wikipedia) is "the technique of painting in which small, distinct dots of pure color are applied in patterns to form an image."


Here is one of my favorite examples of Pointillism-

Paul Signac's The Jetty at Cassis, Opus 198

Small moments are like distinct dots. These moments are different from each other and may not seem that breathtaking individually but when they emerge side by side they begin to form images, make sense of experiences, and create masterpieces in which the dots seem to be lost in the magnificence of the creation. Some small moments represent happier times or more challenging moments but together they embed themselves on a canvas and form an image, an experience that neither existed previously nor could exist without the individual dots.I have been here almost a week and experienced a lot of small moments. Everyday brings new experiences and emotions.

Here are some small moments from the last couple days-

• When I was out running yesterday, a stray dog decided to be my running buddy and ran with me for a couple miles. I really enjoyed his company and gave him the only thing I had- the rest of my water. When I was close to the middle of the run, I realized he was running away from me and looked up to see four dogs furiously heading in his direction to attack him. I felt virtually paralyzed in that moment because there was nothing I could do to assist my running buddy. Eventually, he ran away from the other dogs but I will never be sure what happened to him.

• I was out swimming in the ocean and looked up to see a sea lion about 10 yards away from me!

• A Google Maps Street Car passed me today. I am not sure why but I thought it was super cool.

• I started using new Spanish words that I learned since being here. Baby steps...

• I heard from an organization that focuses on human trafficking that I might be able to work with here. I will keep you posted.
  

I am not sure what the final canvas will look like but I am working on living in each dot, each small moment.

I thought I would attach some pictures of my barrio (neighborhood). Enjoy!

Valparaíso

One of the streets I walk up to get to my apartment...It's like a mini-workout everyday.

Another one of my favorite streets

Viña del Mar

The boats start turning their lights on at dusk

Fire hydrant (taller and skinnier here)