Honduran Mentality

So I have a kinda funny story that gives a little insight into the Honduran mentality. Something similar to this has happened to us a couple times now, so I don't think it was just one person being difficult.

We went to eat at a little place called Wings-n-Burgers. They have the most beautifully crafted hot dogs you will ever see, and some amazing burgers. So I order a hot dog, and the lady asks if I want a drink. So I look at the drinks and say I want a Naranja. She tells me NO. Uh, ok. Apparently, you can get the hot dog as a combo, and that particular combo only comes with the cans of soda, not the bottles. So in her mind, I got Coke or Ginger Ale. That's great and all, but can't you just charge me more and give me what I want?
Apparently not.

We went to Applebee's and ordered their lunch special. They were out of everything but the piece of chicken itself. Did they tell us that when we ordered? No. They brought out half the meal, and when we asked for the rest, they said "no hay"- we don't have it. Ok...why did you let me order this then?

And there's just this sense of acceptance. Like "that's just the way it is and there's nothing you can do about it." In the States, that wouldn't go over well at all. People would be screaming bloody murder and demanding free food. Coming from that mentality of "You can always get what you want", I get frustrated sometimes, but in the end, it doesn't really matter, and it usually works out ok.

Zach ordered the hamburger combo, and that came with a big drink, so I still got my Naranja. But, you know, I probably would have survived without it. Now we'll never know.


That's the thing about being here though. You become much more laid back, there's a lot less stress. It's just...easier. Focus changes, things don't matter so much, there's a sense of freedom.

I love it.