Oct 17th, 2026 Saturday Sunny
An almost random decision five months ago brought my husband and me to Puerto Rico, for a much needed vacation.
Upon walking out of the airport, humid warm air immediately shrouded me. The lush greens and the blooming fiery red flamboyant flowers, together with the low-hanging fluffy clouds in a backdrop of sapphire vault, quickly situated me on a tropical island.
Since we were visiting during the hurricane season, we made some contingency plan in case we did get caught up in a storm. Fortunately, as it turned out, while it rained on a regular basis, sometimes a little heavily – the humidity was a constant eighty percent, so any small disturbance in the upper atmosphere might result in some pouring – most of the showers were spotted and not widespread, often limited to no longer than half an hour. On our way from San Juan to Fajardo, we have traversed in rain three times, at the same time that the sun was shining brightly from the other side of the sky.
What would happen when sunshine and rain meet face to face?
One of the most beautiful rainbows I have seen. Nearly a full semicircle, the arc spanned across the mysterious mountains and the various towns, a pleasant surprise welcoming us.
Yet it was only ONE of the rainbows on this trip. In fact, these iridescent shows of light seemed to be a daily occurrence. We even caught a glimpse of one in the mist of water splashed by the car in front of us, right after some sprinkles.
Blessed with the favor of Iris, the cultures here were also a blend. When Spanish settlers first arrived, they did not bring family, so intermarriages with local people were allowed. Then laborers and slaves from many backgrounds came as well, further infusing the mix. Looking at the faces of those around me, I was completely unable to pinpoint the heritage(s) of any individual.
Meanwhile, nobody stood out. Everyone seemed to belong here. Everyone could proudly claim to be Puerto Rican.
This sense of inclusiveness was impressive, not just in the makeup of the people, but also in their lifestyle (e.g. food) and attitudes. Despite having notoriously narrow roads (!!!!), sharp turns, confusing signs (or the absence altogether), and usually elusive lane markings, we drove for six days, in all sorts of traffic, without getting a single honk. In fact, we barely heard any honking, whether directed at us or not.
My husband commented, “I am used to getting a BEEP if I did something wrong or got in someone’s way. Here, people just found a way around me. All good.”
I believe this laid-back manners reflect an accepting approach towards each other, despite any differences, as well as a tolerant, celebrating way towards life and its beauty. It is refreshing, soothing, and pleasing.
As a result, the rainbow island is teeming with vitality in many forms. There is room for all, anyway.