Things That Make You Go Hmm #6
It’s been quite some time since I’ve written a “Things That Make You Go Hmmm…” blog. And honestly, that might be a good sign with those puzzling moments being fewer and farther between. However lately, I’ve found myself pausing again… not so much out of frustration I guess, but more out of wondering why?
I’ve been noticing a shift in conversations—especially when it comes to travel to the United States. There seems to be a hesitation or perhaps sometimes even a heaviness when the USA is mentioned. I guess I understand – or at least I am trying to understand. We all have our reasons, our perspectives, and our feelings shaped by what we see and hear (media has an awful way of implanting thoughts – and it is often one sided).
But it did make me stop and think. Enough to write about it.
Over the past year or so, we’ve had a few opportunities to travel south of the border and I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. There’s been so much said and so much portrayed in the news or social media resulting in so many strong opinions shared at our mention or stories.
However, our experiences have told a very different story.
From the moment we arrived, we were met with kindness.
I still smile thinking about one of recent visits. At customs, I stood there with that typical serious “passport face,” and the USA agent gently said I could smile – that smiling is natural for us as human beings. It was such a small moment, but it changed something inside. It felt warm. It felt human. It created a connection.
And that feeling continued.
Whether it was shop owners, restaurant staff, or people we simply crossed paths with, the interactions were kind, welcoming, and genuine. There was no tension. No divide. Just people being regular kind people.
What stayed with me most were the conversations with local business owners. Many shared that this season had been a difficult one. Fewer visitors. Quieter days. And beyond the impact on their businesses, there was something deeper – they missed their friendships. The familiar faces stopping by their shops. The connections that had been built over many winters.
It reminded me that behind every decision, every headline, and every strong opinion… there are real people on the sidelines. People who are working hard, trying to support their families, and simply hoping to welcome others in the way they always have.
Now, I’m not here to tell anyone what they should or shouldn’t do. We all make decisions that feel right for us, and that matters, but I do think there is value in staying open-minded. We need to allow our own experiences to speak alongside what we hear (or read). Maybe then, we would remember that sometimes the truest picture isn’t found in the noise of the six o’clock news, but in the moments we actually live.
For me, this was one of those “Things that make you go hmm” moments.
I hope this is a gentle reminder that kindness still exists everywhere, not just in Canada. That connection still matters and that sometimes, the story is much different than we expect.
As for us—we’ll continue to follow what feels right in our hearts. And if that includes heading toward that Florida sunshine again, squeezing in a Target shopping spree, or simply exploring the grand beauty of the good ol’ USA, we’ll go with open eyes, warm hearts… and definitely a smile at their customs border.
Sidenote: A fantastic area to visit and place to stay is Sheraton Sand key Resort
