Etla Mercado was unlike anything I had ever experienced before. Between the array of products for purchase, the different generations working together and the mere sense of community, I felt as if I was thrust into a new family; a new home.
My fears were quickly set aside when I realized the language barrier between us did not matter much, for it was the facial expressions and body language that spoke louder than words. I found myself connecting on a level I never knew existed with people I had never known. Although it was sometimes hard to explain why I wanted pictures, most were generous enough to say yes, even if they did not understand.
The people of Etla smiled and laughed, all while creating and selling their individual products. I felt that walking into the market with an open mind and a smile created ease for my subjects. I found many close relationships at the market, with much more children present than I would have expected.
One thing that stood out to me was the emotional attachment many showcased at the market, whether it be a child on a mother, a group of close friends or a child and her pet. Going into the market or coming out, it was clear that Etla was, in some ways, a home for most.
Overall, the market of Etla was filled with a breath of fresh air I didn't know I needed. It was breath-taking the amount of joy and empathy that existed inside.