¡Permisito! ¡Buen Día!

For several weeks I have found myself imploring the listener in different parts of the world to trust an inner source in me with the claim that my visit is not a touristic one. Somehow it may also be self-implored. The immersion I perceive within and about me, does not allow me to wear the label. One experience in particular, and the state it put me in, convince me of this being true.

For a week I have been walking an unpaved road on a daily basis. The rain and the usage have produced indentations on a number of spots.

Coming from the left on the crossing road, I spotted two men on bicycles. As they rode passed me on the right, swerving to avoid the holes, I turned my head towards them, partly as intuitive movement, partly to acknowledge their presence.

¡Permisito! ¡Buen Día!
Said the one on the left.

Forms of politeness and courtesy are a myriad in color, wording, intention, culture. The Japanese forms stand out to me. In very different hues, so do the ones in Ecuador.

Excuse me! Good day!

That was not an “excuse me”, so I may drive by. It did not mean “may I?”
I feel safe in gathering that my sudden look in his direction made him apologize for making me look in that manner. And it was in their common diminutive form. Polite but less impersonal than a formal “permiso“.

Two reasons make me share this moment in this manner. Firstly, it is in an effort never to forget this fleeting exchange, and its impression on me. Secondly, to honor a man for his kindness, in a moment beyond the agreements of cultural norm.