I walked at least 4km for groceries in this winter with a -2 Celsius temperature that, according to the app, feels like -9 thanks to the winds. I experienced much colder temperature but I never walked with groceries hoisted in my backpack. It was a curious moment for me to decide wether I should give in to self-pity or just listen to "Philosophize This" podcasts (they are amazing by the way) as I trudge home with yakult bottles, pickled relish, and vegetables stuffed in my backpack.
Back in September, I was told by a cowboy I met here that Texans...nay, AMERICANS ....value their freedom and independence ergo they *NEED* to have a car as a symbol for this independence. So, in the land of freedom-loving larger-than-life with its own fuel fields: Texas does not have an efficient and reliable public transportation system.
When my classmates here find out that I do not have a car, they look at me with pity like I have syphilis AND leprosy at the same time. Even many of the Pinoys (not my neightbors, they're cool) here are baffled when I say I will be walking home "NAGLALAKAD KA?"
I don't know. Freedom is relative. I may not have a car here but I lost weight walking to class. I may not have a car here but I do not have to worry about parking fees of about 100 USD per semester....that is like three weeks of REALLY good groceries. I may not have a car but I do not have to pay exorbitant car insurance for foreigners. Maybe I will get a car here down the line, but I like walking.
I have always liked walking. I did not like walking in Manila because one's dignity is always negotiated when you are in Manila streets. I say streets, because the concept of sidewalks in Manila are mostly that: just concepts.
The landlord said that the temperature will become colder in January and February. So, walking to the grocery will be difficult. I could always wait for my Pinoy neighbors and just join them in their food run over at distant Walmart. But that would mean becoming dependent on them.
If there is one thing I learned VIOLENTLY here in Lubbock is that Independence is a gift and it is a commitment. Americans say they love their freedom, I get it. I love my newfound sense of independence, and even if it means walking through howling cold gales of Western Texas, then the cold is my companion to this independence.
This time last year I do not even boil water. And here I am with aching legs imagining that it was worse for the pioneers of American history that did not have climate-controlled environments as they went off to hunt for food. I am still luckier than billions that I have a fresh batch of baby spinach in my ref, which I brought with me from the grocery several blocks away.