Life in Cape Verde felt like a dream. Located in the heart of the Atlantic Ocean, this archipelagic nation is home to stunning beaches, diverse cultures, and a unique way of life. From my experience, I have discovered some fascinating things, but also encountered some thought-provoking situations.
On the beach in Cape Verde, I got acquainted with a local fisherman named Andrea. He was tall, dark-skinned, and had a sunny smile. André told me that he learned the art of fishing from his father at an early age, and every morning he would sail out in a small boat in search of abundant seafood. In his eyes, the ocean is his cradle and his place of sustenance. Every capture means the feeding of the family and the hope for life. The conversation with André made me feel the dependence and awe of the Cape Verdean people on the sea, who see it as a source of life, not only as a material support, but also as a spiritual sustenance.
In addition to the beaches, the interior of Cape Verde also has a unique charm. I came to one of the largest cities in the country, the city of Minis. The streets here are narrow and intricate, the houses are colorful, and behind every door there is a story hidden. In the streets of Minis, I met an entertainer named Carlos. He was an elderly guitarist who often played and sang touching melodies in the streets. Carlos told me that he has been wandering the city since he was younger, using music to tell his stories and convey his emotions. Although he did not live a wealthy life, he never gave up his love for music and the pursuit of freedom. Every time he plays, it is his way of talking to the world and his declaration of life. In Carlos's music, I seem to see the resilience and optimism of the people of Cape Verde, who use the melody of their hearts to express their love for life and their hopes for the future.
However, life in Cape Verde is not all pretty. In the process of communicating with the locals, I also heard some heart-wrenching stories. One day, I met a woman named Maria, who was sitting on the beach with a sad face. Maria told me that her husband had gone missing in a marine accident and is still missing. She was raising two young children on her own and had a hard life. Despite this, Maria remained strong in the face of life and supported the family with her own hands. She told me that while life is full of challenges, she will not give up hope for the future because she knows that no matter what happens, she is not alone. Through Maria's story, I deeply experienced the resilience and courage of the people of Cape Verde, who have always remained optimistic and strong in the face of life's ups and downs.
Looking back on my time in Cape Verde, I realize that I have learned a lot. In this land, I have seen the harmony between man and nature, the colorfulness of life, and the brilliance of human nature. There may be some things that I don't know whether to say or not, but I would like to say that life in Cape Verde is not only about beautiful beaches and beautiful scenery, but also about being a country full of stories and warmth. Let's get closer to this land together, to feel those real lives, to listen to those ordinary and great stories.