El Salvador's working class

Walking to Plaza Merliot meant we crossed the busiest intersection on the way.

A little boy, about 6 years old was at the front of the stopped traffic.  He had taken the opportunity, while the lights were red, to earn some money by entertaining the driver's of the mainly huge trucks waiting for the lights to change.

He had two sticks to which was attached a cord.  A sort of bobbin was thrown up and down and caught in the middle of the cord.

He was totally not put off by the fact that he couldn't really do the trick, he was entertaining them by walking in between the huge trucks which would hardly have been able to see him if they moved off quickly.  He was earning 'bread' for his family, and was enjoying doing so.  The family consisted of 3 youngish women and at least 4 other younger siblings.  All quite accustomed to what was going on.  What a spirit!

There is a disparity in income in El Salvador.  This is nothing new among the nations. In El Salvador though, street vending does not bring down the long arm of the law on your head.  Citizens wheel their carts around making themselves visible to the population.  They employed no coercion.  You buy if you want.  And people bought.  The days were really hot so shaved ice in a cup, sweetened with whatever syrup took your fancy, was very refreshing.

Another vender had a backpack filled with thermos flasks containing coffee which thirsty customers in the cooler evenings purchased.  People gathered in the parks after work with their families providing a ready footfall of potential buyers.  One cannot help thinking that the Almighty looks down with tender love on these 'less fortunate in cash and education' people who nevertheless find joy and a reason to live in each day.  Reminds one of Jesus' response to Peter when Peter told Him to 'pity Himself'.