In 2008 as I passed through this very stretch of New Mexico I wrote the following,

Contrast (kən-trāst’, kŏn’trāst’)  To set in opposition in order to show or emphasize differences

Visually, New Mexico geography defines contrast. From the rich color stratifications to the jutting rock formations,  you experience it but it is hard to feel a part of it.

My first post debate interaction this morning was at the hotel elevator where I met two women from Oklahoma, both dressed head to toe in red, white and blue. They seemed more subdued than their attire and within moments they were sharing just how disappointed they were with the debate. They felt that Kamala Harris was unpresidential, did not answer any of the questions, and that the moderators clearly favored her. Trump was strong and the only candidate that world leaders respected. They were clearly terrified of a Harris presidency.

My contrast came two hours later at the Route 66 diner. Sitting at the counter where three good friends discussing the debate. While I suspected they were Trump supporters, they were kind and funny. They signed my flag and slid into a booth to have breakfast. After I finished I noticed that only one of the three remained. Please meet Fred. Born and raised in New Mexico, Fred served for 30 years in the Air Force as a civil engineer. He built Air Force bases in Vietnam and Germany. Fred shared stories of working double shifts when he was deployed just because he loved the work. Off base, he would gain approval to use equipment and materials to aid the local people, schools and orphanages. From clearing fields for rice paddies to building school soccer fields, he was proud of his work and service. I am too.

I asked Fred if he would answer one last question on tape for me and he agreed. In the end, he had one last surprise for me.

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