None pursue handouts. How different from the barefoot, bare bottomed, bloated bellied children I witnessed in the 1960s as Director of Peace Corps in Honduras. While a North American level of prosperity is still not part of the reality of everyday life for most Mexicans, it does appear to be on its way. I am puzzled by the absence of children crying or children engaged in open conflict with a parent. Children seem content with their world and alive with freedom to run and play knowing open arms await them if they are needed .
Older children seem comfortable and accepting of their roles as caretakers of younger children.
Since a majority of Mexicans cannot afford an automobile, the park has become a meeting place for those coming of age, their semi private locus for flirtations and romance. In the park, boys and girls sit side by side on concrete benches, sometimes on the seat, sometimes on the backs of the seats. Then, by some miracle of contortion, the boy will wrap his leg around the leg of his novia. Hands from both pairs eagerly explore their partner. Full embraces and kisses are within the rules.