SECOND Wind

It’s easy to get caught up in the everyday routine—work, errands, responsibilities—but every so often, I stop and remind myself: I live in Mazatlán.

That simple thought never fails to ground me in gratitude. Waking up to the sound of the waves, stepping onto my balcony to see the sun rising over the ocean, walking along the Malecón with a warm breeze on my skin—these moments are not lost on me. They are gifts, and I never want to take them for granted.

There was a time when I dreamed of a life like this, but I wasn’t sure if it was possible. Life has a way of leading us where we need to be, often through unexpected paths. Now that I’m here, I don’t just want to live in Mazatlán—I want to be present in Mazatlán. To fully appreciate the vibrant colors of the city, the laughter of people gathered in the plazas, the simple joy of watching a father and son play in the park across from my building.

I remind myself daily to soak it all in. To pause and listen to the mariachi band playing on the street. To enjoy a fresh seafood meal without rushing. To take my long walks by the ocean when the air is cooler, breathing deeply and feeling thankful for the ability to do so.

It’s a privilege to be here, and I never want to let that slip into the background of my life. I know that not everyone gets the chance to live in a place that fills their soul, and I don’t take mine for granted.

So today, like every day, I choose gratitude. I choose to be present. And I choose to embrace the beauty of Mazatlán with open arms.