Visiting Mexico on vacation and living in Mexico — even temporarily — are two entirely different experiences.

Over the years, I’ve had the luxury of vacationing in some of Mexico’s most beautiful destinations: Puerto Vallarta, Playa del Carmen, Cancun… and even stayed at what I consider the best resort I’ve ever visited, Xcaret. Those vacations were incredible, and like most people on holiday, I spent my time soaking up the sun, the scenery, and the rest I desperately needed.

But this past month was different. Thanks to Liliana’s family roots in Fresnillo and Zacatecas, we were able to immerse ourselves in everyday life in Mexico. What I experienced was nothing short of eye-opening, and I came away with some deep perspectives I feel compelled to share.

Pushing Past the Fear

Before going, many people warned me: “It’s dangerous.” “Watch out for the cartels.” “The police are corrupt.” Honestly, I almost let that fear talk me out of the trip. But I’m so glad I didn’t.

Sure, Mexican culture isn’t American culture — nor should it be. From the moment I stepped off the plane, I reminded myself: I am a guest in this country. I made it a point to show respect, follow the laws, and honor the people and customs as best as I could.

And guess what? When you show respect, you get it back. Every interaction — from officers on the street to locals in the markets — reinforced that truth.

Seeing Protection Through a New Lens

Yes, it was startling at first to see military officers in tactical gear with rifles strapped across their chests. It looked like a scene from an action movie. But after a few days, I stopped seeing it as intimidating — and started seeing it as a visible sign of protection and readiness. In fact, I found myself walking a little straighter, feeling a little more secure, and respecting the structure that kept things in order.

The Hustle is Different Here

What struck me the most walking through the city each day was the spirit of entrepreneurship. Kids and adults alike were out selling candy, popsicles, homemade snacks, or handmade goods. But they weren’t begging. They weren’t playing the victim card. These were mini-entrepreneurs, up early, working hard, and selling with pride.

It reminded me of the verse in Matthew 6:11 — “Give us this day our daily bread.” These people lived that out daily. And I couldn’t help but think of Matthew 6:26 — “Look at the birds of the air… your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?”

There was a quiet trust and a daily rhythm to life that made me pause.

What We Call “Lacking” Might Actually Be Richness

In the U.S., we might call some parts of Mexico a “third world country.” But what I saw were people who had what really matters — even if they didn’t have the latest iPhone, luxury vehicles, or air-conditioned everything.

I saw community.

I saw restaurants welcome street vendors to sell to their patrons instead of pushing them away. I saw people taking midday breaks for food and rest. I saw families gather in public spaces to enjoy music and the arts together.

I saw people who might have “nothing” by American standards — but in reality, they had everything.

What America Often Misses

For the past 20 years, I’ve had the big house, the fancy cars, the toys, the travel, the exclusive experiences. And yet, somewhere along the way, I missed what I saw so clearly in Mexico: genuine community. A life not consumed by political arguments, consumerism, or social climbing — but one focused on presence, people, and purpose.

Interestingly, those in Mexico who seemed most influenced by American culture were also the least content — constantly chasing more, trying to “appear” a certain way, and missing the same irreplaceable joys that money can’t buy.

A Reset… and a Rebirth

This past year has been a reset — physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Liliana and I set out on this journey to ask some big questions: Who do we want to be? What do we want to invest our lives in?

Coming back to Dallas-Fort Worth was jarring. Culture shock hit immediately — the chaos, the hurry, the pressure. Within hours of landing, we were already back in stress mode. And to top it off, someone keyed our car that very night while we grabbed a burger. (And no — I don’t drive a Tesla.)

What This Trip Confirmed for Me

This experience didn’t just give me a different view of Mexico. It confirmed the life I want to keep building:

• Growing passive income
• Minimizing stuff and expenses
• Maximizing time with people I love in a meaningful community

Because as King Solomon once said: “Everything else is meaningless.”

Let this be a reminder — not just to travel, but to live differently. To slow down. To observe. To learn from cultures that may not have everything we think we need — but often have what we’ve lost.