Spent two days riding around Miami on a big red McCormick farm tractor while I visited with newspapers, merchants, friends and strangers.
Many people from the rural parts of Florida predicted I would end my adventure in Miami. They predicted the conditions would be so hostile and adverse I would load up and come home.
I will admit driving a farm tractor through the high rise area of downtown Miami presented some operational challenges. However, I met some of the friendliest and most engaging people in the state.
A big red McCormick tractor, a real farmer with a southern drawl, and a cowboy hat, brought out the very best of everyone I met. Cultural background made no difference.
In a truly multicultural city with a diverse population, people responded positively to a genuine smile and a firm handshake.
Some had a hard time understanding my accent. I had a hard time understanding some I heard, but, the basic goodwill of people was never more evident than it is in Miami.
So visit Miami. They live at a little faster pace, but they are wonderful people drawing great strength from their diversity. See the American experience at its best.
Sunday, May 16, 2010
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