Today, though, things took a different tone. This weekend, the entire family of Bernardo's girlfriend visited. They arrived yesterday to have a big clam and sausage dinner. (I wasn't home for that part but instead was hanging out with the other gringas in Jen and Amy's apartment.) Today, when I arrived home Laly was busy in the kitchen preparing the fish fry. A bit later, I convinced my brothers to play soccer. Finally!!! We played (size 4 ball, on concrete, 2 vs. 2) for about an hour and I was happy as a clam. I miss playing so much it was good to just run around and play. Everyone was floored by the fact I could complete a pass and play defense. "Nos bailó, la Jenny nos bailó" (She danced us...or danced around us?). Feels good to show a bunch of Chileans that girls can be athletic and play sports. I knew I packed my soccer socks for a reason...
--Fish lunch--
A while later, after most of us were finished eating, and the comments tapered about how delicious and "rico" the meal was, how full we all are, who wants more, etc. etc., and Bernardo, my host brother, had an announcement.
He and Angee, the girlfriend he met in the US on a work exchange program (both are Chilean--they went to the US separately, met there and came back in love.), want to get married soon. It wasn't exactly him proposing to Angee but more a request for the blessing of the families. For the next while, each member of the family (Angee's parents, my host parents, Laly's mom and Dad, Cristóbal) said a few words in approval and blessing for the couple.
The way this all unfolded opened up a different aspect of Chilean culture I hadn't yet seen. It was the most open, honest and real I'd seen my family. Often, I get tired of the same slap stick jokes and the same gossipy stories told at meals. I feel as if the humor is at the expense of others, often offensive and frankly, I don't get it. Yet this afternoon, I realized that the words exchanged across the table were profoundly authentic. No TV blabbing away, no more dessert plates to pick at. In other words, no distractions. Everyone focused on Bernardo and Angee. I really appreciate this gesture of open communication and verbal affirmation of support and love for the couple. I'm not sure that this happens enough. Anywhere. Of course, when it came around to me, I got all nervous and couldn't think of anything else but "me parece muy bien" and "felicidades." (It seems very good to me, congratulations). After I spoke, I had even more respect for the parents and grandparents that were able to form wise thoughtful expressions to bless the relationship of their children.
In other news, holiday tomorrow = no class!! :)
One week until the half marathon.
The sun continues to shine. gracias a dios.
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