"Summers in the countryside: nostalgia, inequality, and the challenge of reconnecting with roots"

Summer in rural areas presents itself as a time for reflection and connection with roots that are often forgotten in the hustle and bustle of urban life. The nostalgic evocation of a village that transforms over time awakens in many a desire to return, although the distance from everyday life can make that return not so simple. A letter from a reader, Gema Abad Ballarín, resonates in this regard, highlighting how summers in the countryside bring with them a blend of aromas, flavors, and memories that seem lost in the routine of the city. However, this connection can be clouded by a feeling of disconnection with a place that, although familiar, has also changed. This phenomenon is not exclusive to one location. As villages and rural communities face economic and demographic challenges, nostalgia can transform into a kind of idealization. Many see the countryside as a refuge of peace and simplicity, a counterbalance to the frantic urban life. But do we really know what has happened in those places during our absence? The transformations in rural areas are not only aesthetic; they are also cultural and economic. Depopulation, lack of services, and the abandonment of traditions are issues that cannot be overlooked. On the other hand, the debate about territorial inequality in Spain also becomes evident in this context. Manuel Álvarez Regalado, in his letter, criticizes how prosperous regions like Catalonia can benefit at the expense of the neglect of other areas, such as Extremadura. This comment highlights the need to address regional disparities with measures that not only seek economic compensation but also promote balanced development. It is vital to remember that the culture and traditions of rural areas deserve to be valued and preserved. Meanwhile, in a global context, the horror of armed conflicts, such as the recent attack in Gaza that left a devastating toll, reminds us that crises are not just distant; they also challenge our sense of humanity. Francisco José Eguibar Padrón rightly points out that indifference to the violence and suffering of others is one of the greatest dangers of our time. Emotional distance, whether physical or psychological, can lead us to close our eyes to what happens in the world, a tendency exacerbated by information saturation and desensitization. At the same time, the situation in Venezuela presents a geopolitical and social dilemma that cannot be ignored. Eguibar's letter reflects a country that has seen its wealth vanish amid a regime that, despite changes in its faces and discourses, continues to perpetuate a cycle of oppression and scarcity. The history of Venezuela is a reminder that resources do not always guarantee prosperity; in fact, they can become curses if not managed properly. Corruption and abuse of power have left an indelible mark on the nation's identity. With these examples, it becomes evident that summer, the return home, and nostalgia are not just personal matters; they also reflect complex social realities. The reclamation of rural spaces must go hand in hand with a critical analysis of how to manage inequalities and confront the challenges these communities face. Ultimately, the dialogue between urban and rural can be a catalyst for change if approached with sensitivity and responsibility. The connection with our roots, the defense of local culture, and the fight against social injustice are aspects that must intertwine. While we enjoy starry nights and the aromas of the countryside, it is essential to maintain an active commitment to the realities that surround us, both in our communities and on the global stage. In this way, summer can become a time not only for remembering but also for acting, seeking to build a fairer and more equitable future for all.