more in common than you'd think

[suzys_poetry]

I was unpacking and putting away product at work yesterday, and out fell a work slip from the manufacturer. It was signed by a "Juan" stating that the product passed inspection. It was written in Spanish so the product was from Mexico, or other Spanish country. I've never seen a foreign factory slip before, and I began to wonder about Juan. I began to think about what I have in common with this stranger. His last name was on the slip as well, although I could not pronounce it or remember it. I too have a name difficult to pronounce. I work for people over me to make a living.

I wondered what Juan's life was like. Did he enjoy his work? Was he young or more experienced? Did he have a wife, a family? What was it like to work in a factory building merchandise for a foreign country? Was he paid fairly for his work? What did he do when he went home for the day? What kind of house did he live in? What did he think of people who live in Canada?

I shared briefly my insights with my co-worker and we went about our business. Still, I feel connected to this stranger. We work together to create a common goal. We both work to build homes for people in Canada. How many other people am I connected to in this world that I have taken for granted?

Thank you to whoever grows and harvests the tea leaves I very much enjoyed this afternoon.