Part 3/11:
A striking observation is the pace at which Ecuadorians walk. On average, they walk three to four times slower than Americans. The irony lies in Ecuador winning a gold medal in speed walking at the last Olympics, highlighting a cultural difference where fast walking is seen as a sport, not a lifestyle. Initially, the author found the slow pace frustrating but soon began to appreciate the value of taking time to enjoy the journey rather than focusing solely on the destination. This spirit of walking slowly encourages mindful living and helps to alleviate the anxiety often felt in fast-paced environments.