CHANTAL LAWRIE

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I sometimes cry for you ARGENTINA.

As the world becomes more interconnected, with people constantly moving and traveling, it's easy to feel pulled between our hometowns and the places we've come to call home. For me, Argentina holds a special place in my heart, and no matter how many years pass, it doesn't become any easier.

When I first left Argentina to explore different cultures and experiences, I was filled with excitement and curiosity. I longed to taste new foods, learn about different religions, and immerse myself in diverse communities. But as time moved forward, I realized that no matter where I was in the world, there were certain aspects of my homeland that I couldn't simply adapt away.

I find myself missing my mom and sister every single day, their familiar presence aching in my heart. It's this longing that fuels my desire to find business opportunities that would allow me to travel back to Argentina more frequently. I yearn to be a part of the everyday life, to experience the routines and rhythms that once shaped my existence.

But it's not just family and friends that I miss. It's the simple, everyday moments that hold a special place in my memory. In Argentina, it's the norm to stop by unannounced at a friend's house, sharing laughter and conversation over some mate. Walking down the street, you're bound to witness the incredible sight of a dog walker surrounded by a swarm of furry companions ( I mean 15 to 20 dogs sometimes)

I miss the familiarity of walking to the neighborhood store, the "Almacen," where you can find all the essentials like bread, milk, tea, and candy. And the "verduleria," where you only go for fresh fruits and vegetables.

Sunday mornings hold a scent of anticipation in the air, as the aroma of barbecues being prepared wafts through the neighborhood. Families and friends gather, laughter and chatter filling the streets, creating a tapestry of joy and togetherness. It's these simple acts that embed a sense of belonging in your very being.

And then there's futbol, a passion that runs deep within every Argentinean's veins. From an early age, you're immersed in this sport, watching matches in school with your classmates, cheering, crying, and experiencing the rollercoaster of emotions that can only be felt through the power of community. Even though I'm not a fervent fan of futbol itself, it's the unity and shared moments of celebration and heartbreak that bring tears to my eyes.

When my nephew Simon found out that Lionel Messi was moving to Miami, he couldn't contain his excitement. He bombarded Messi from my mom's (Abuela) Instagram with over 15 messages, making sure that Messi knew he was coming to visit in November lol. It was the cutest thing ever.

So, as I reflect on the things I miss from Argentina, I realize that it's not just the physical place or its landmarks. It's the intangible connections, the simple joys, and the sense of belonging that I carry with me wherever I go. Through my photography, I strive to capture these universal moments.

I hope Simon carries his positivity forward, finding his own sense of belonging wherever he roams. Perhaps, while strolling along a beach, he'll encounter a game of futbol, a band of players, and one among them maybe, just maybe will called Lionel.