This morning, I woke up in a cool house, turned on the faucet for fresh drinking water, and my sewage system worked seamlessly. My wife reminded me to take out the trash for Monday’s pickup. I had access to hot water for my shower, a washer and dryer for clean clothes, and our house was well-insulated against the ever-changing elements outside. As I drove through the streets of Diamondhead, I didn’t encounter beggars or homeless people camped everywhere. Instead, I saw two law enforcement officers patrolling the streets for safety. The streets were clean, and I couldn’t help but appreciate the beautiful Mayor and city council that runs the city that I initially voted against – I was mistaken, and I am truly thankful for their work.

In contrast, my thoughts of my stay drifted to a Guatemalan city where security guards armed with AK-47 were stationed at every mom-and-pop store, and the police were as troublesome as the criminals. The city suffered from almost complete infrastructure breakdowns, and trash was the norm, not the exception. Water availability was sporadic, depending on your location. The primary mode of transportation was old American school buses they referred to as “chicken buses,” and for a reason – most Americans would be afraid to ride them. I certainly was. The absence of road rules made the experience downright terrifying.

Moreover, in Guatemala, socialized medicine was a facade. Genuine healthcare was only accessible to those with money, while the socialized medicine system was entirely broken and financially bankrupt. Hundreds of people had to wait for services for days, showcasing the system’s undeniable failure.

Comparing these experiences and the ones in most large American cities, I couldn’t help but feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude for Diamondhead. Here, there are no drunks to step over each morning, and teenage gangs don’t loiter around corners. I am grateful for the security that welcomes me every morning and evening, reminding me of how truly fortunate we are.

“When those lacking the ability or will to enforce the laws lead, it’s the innocent citizens who ultimately bear the cost.”