Why don’t Mexicans get their act together and build Mexico into a first world nation?
I guess the answer would depend upon your perception of a "first world nation." In many ways, life in Mexico is much better than it is in the U.S. For example, there is no lack of technology. In many U.S. cities it is hard to find an Internet cafe. In the larger cities of Mexico, you can find an Internet cafe every couple of blocks. So, even those who cannot afford a computer have access to one.
Also, local farmers markets (tianguis) can be found at least once a week in nearly all neighborhoods. The quality and price of supermarket produce is surpassed by the vendors at the tianguis. Most needs are within walking distance and walking is still popular. People do not jump in their cars to go a few blocks. Walking is also very safe, unless you are living in Mexico City. It is actually safer walking here than in major U.S. cities!
Public transportation is abundant and cheap. I don’t need a car. I can also travel around the country using affordable premier bus services that provide clean bathrooms, small meal, videos, music and more leg room than first class air travel.
Unless you are very poor, most Mexican families have cable and Internet services. Affordable cable/phone/Internet packages are common. Cell phone contracts are available, but most people purchase a phone outright and pay for time as needed. It is so much more affordable than in the U.S. Phone air time can be purchased at the supermarket or the local tienda (neighborhood store.)
Tiendas are in every neighborhood and you can purchase all your needs at the local store for pennies more than the supermarket. Local merchants do not price gouge like convenience stores in the U.S. People in Mexico do not isolate themselves from family, friends and neighbors. Mexicans work long hours, but they take time to enjoy life and spend time with others.
Comida is still a part of the culture, but it is in danger of extinction at the price of progress. Comida is the mid-day meal and most small shops close from 2 to 4 PM. Families gather for the meal, before returning to work. The work day ends around PM.
Unfortunately, becoming a so-called "first world nation" usually means there is more daily stress and more unhealthy eating habits, like fast food. Mexican food is not fattening or unhealthy, but the fast food industry is creating an epidemic of obesity in Mexico. It is very tragic. In some ways, the government is trying to combat obesity. In April, a law passed banning junk food from the schools.
Mexicans are all too aware of the problems with U.S. conspicuous consumption. It is not in their nature to buy into the "first world" ideologies that one needs more toys or to toss them in the trash when they break down. If something can be repaired, it is repaired. Buying new is a last resort. People do not compete for
"things" like we do in the U.S.
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These are only a few examples of life in Mexico. Yes, there is poverty, but poverty exists in the U.S. too. There is also the problem of violence at the border. But, drug use is unfortunately a problem of "first world" nations. Something is terribly wrong, because the U.S. is the biggest consumer of illegal drugs. Becoming a "first world" nation is not always the best solution. Besides, if things are so great in Western nations, why do so many U.S. citizens cross the border for prescription medicines, dental work and cosmetic surgery?
Mexico is thoroughly corrupt. If they did build their nation, and did take care of their people, the corruption would have to go. The control of the Army and police would fall away, and people in high places would very likely not do so well. It is going to happen. Many think we are on a revolution to a new source of power for the world… clean coal, nuclear power, solar, wind. Nuclear Power has a chance of making the old way of life continue, but the rest, and this country seems determined to disregard Nuclear Power, are unreliable, and not enough. When Mexico wakes up and realizes they are going to slide backward, or come forward with nuclear power, I believe the corruption of the Mexican Government may well go away. Suggesting they are exploited by Americans is REALLY.. wrong. Americans need to stop the abuse at the hands of the Mexican Government, and need to do that very soon!
