The stereotype is that in “warm-climate nations” (including Perú even though it has four seasons), things take time.
For many do-gooders with progressive sensibilities, rational outlooks, and efficient ideals, this slow speed of change is a source of endless frustration.
Yet, if you've ever been a passenger in a taxi or moonlighted as a pedestrian, you'll know that drivers in Lima are anything but lento.
I have been speaking in generalities. Let me offer you a more concrete example: Last Thursday I accompanied Carlos to the immigration ministry to extend his visa. We visited six stations in order to accomplish this task (1. request desk 2. application desk 3. back to request desk to submit his application 4. cashier counter 5. photocopy kiosk 6. request desk to show proof of payment and submit remaining paperwork). Each administrator at the various stations was professional and efficient. And, as you can see, the process was not.
Though a small inconvenience, the quality of life lay in the details.
I am still struggling to understand the mechanics behind this idea, phenomenon, and perception of "slow." However, having worked in a large American corporation, I do know that slow is not endemic to "developing nations."
Perhaps we have it backwards. Perhaps it is not the people who are slow, but those in power who impose slow on the population as a means of control; to reinforce inertia and maintain the status quo.
Who is to blame? What is to be done?
2 comments:
I wonder if you can elaborate on the following:
"Though a small inconvenience, the quality of life lay in the details."
So what is the quality of life? How do the details shape it?
Well, for me, quality happens when there is conscious consideration behind an action.
If you know me, you'll know that I am not against "slow." I firmly believe that meals should be slow; Sunday afternoons, strolls through parks, confidences with friends, and sips of single-malt whiskys should all be slow.
Having to stop at six stations to accomplish one task is not efficient. It is a lesson in appreciating beaurocracy.
You may argue that lessons in contrast are the best kinds. But, I ask, is that really necessary?
The details, in this case, are distractions. Quality is actually a neutral word; it describes the condition of a thing.
If the details are constructed with awareness and heighten your own awareness, then the quality is positive. If unthoughtful, details can scatter your focus and leave you with a heavy, mucky feeling.
In this manner, small inconveniences and inefficencies are not just about testing our patience or slowing us down; they have everything to do with the way in which we are able to fully realize our humanness as conscious beings.
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