Faces

Today was one of the sunny days here. My allergy is getting better when out. And I really enjoy being out.

So, after school, I went to a bookshop, to the police and then there - my neighbourhood: an interesting walk with my camera. Don't know why, decided it is something 'fine' to do. From some time now I've been considering the idea about telling these people's stories here.

So, I went straight to the little brown lady (on #12). Her coat is brown and she didn't want to be pictured. Previous two days she managed to gather 10 kg of metal bits and some sheet iron. These were sold for 8.50 and she got 8.00. She didn't know why. Her pension, about 100 LV/month (not sure, but must be a bit more) isn't enough, and if we can trust this, she earns about 45 LV/month (1EU=1,95LV, 1USD = 1,35LV) from the waste. She lives alone. For some reasons she didn't get along with her brother and sister-in-low. Was proud she is managing with the life. It is something to be proud with, having in mind the chances she had... Difficult life.

I've been shown her jewellery. Was strange. I don't wear anything valuable in this town and these things are valuable for her. But it makes sense in a way - although in the garbage, she considers her life worth... something like this...

Then the kids appear. And we started chatting. This one on the photo was so keen to be pictured and happy to see himself 'IN' my camera. Asked me for 20 'stotinki' (1lv=100stotinki, 1,95LV=1EU, 1,35LV=1USD). Although I usually don't give, I've checked my pockets - only handkerchiefs there. Even so, we continued talking. After school they are coming to this place - to play and collect metal. Is this a childhood? Pity? or not?

What will happen with these children, when they grow up?

Today, there was 'an exam' at the school. A 30+ years old person was 'fighting' for his elementary diploma.

Strange day, that brought me into the police station too. Decided it is a good idea to clarify the 16th January situation, when the police didn't appear here at all. The policeman on duty was trying to be helpful. A responsible official appeared but, unfortunately this one was pretty reluctant. My intention is to have the problem solved, not to complain what someone did or not in the past. Nothing. I shall write them too. Everyone here must be written to... Nice people. Clever. There was an attempt to put the whole story as 'environment' - the most dangerous word lately. Although I successfully managed to prove it is about our health, breathing that black smokes every day - nothing changed.

When discussing this situation here, especially with people who are on positions to make a change, everyone getting really thoughtful, sad-faced and deep-breathing... That changes nothing.

OK, will write them too. Interesting what will their answer be.

After that meeting we had a chat with some neighbours too. Everyone are unhappy with the situation. Offered me their signatures. Good.

Not sure how right I am that elderly people health isn't an argument here. But there are children living in this quarter too. Not many although... Thoughts... mine.

And... another amazing site: Where do children play?

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