Hazing in Peru
SUMMARY: I get my first dose of hazing in Peru, courtesy of my San Jose basketball teammates. I describe the humiliating incident in detail.
I got a good dose of Peruvian hazing last night after our team pounded San Juan 73 – 46. There were a handful of new guys – youngsters – who I assume were the best players from the high school team and the coach wants to start exposing them to the men’s Superior League.
After the beatdown, we all gathered in the locker room to discuss the next practice, etc. Coach told us that San Jose has a tradition for new players and these three new youngsters need to follow suit. A couple voices yelled out, “¡Colin también!” After hearing this, guys stole glances at me laughing. I immediately got nervous. Ramiro looked at me and told me I looked tense, laughing. … Read more
Peruvians Who Inspire Me
SUMMARY: I talk about a few Peruvians who inspire me with their admirable spirit.
As much as I tend to contrast Peru and America, there are many things in common. Things in common across all cultures – the human condition.
Dani is a ten year-old girl who works with her mother at the corner of Don Bosco and San Pedro (by my old apartment). Her mother is a chocolatera – a street vendor of candy, snacks, drinks, and cigarettes. Dani usually goes straight from school to work with her mother until 9 or 10pm. She also spends her weekends on that corner working. She’s growing up much different than I did. … Read more
