Maria had taken note of the annoyance that bubbled across Ben's face, reminding her of Sam in that moment and her own bitter attitude when being cautioned about anything. The scary part, however, was Sam didn't mind getting hurt if things accidentally went south. Maria took no offence to the emotions displayed by Ben, she continued to display a peaceful attitude towards the young vampire despite the negative observation Ben expressed.
"It looks that way doesn't it?" Maria indicated in a calm and mellow attitude. Maria did not think Ben as a snob, she thought he was narrow-minded and a bit rigid with his observations. Examining Bens' gaze flicker across the street, staring at four individuals that were nothing more than tough-looking teddy bears.
"People would not think I come from a third world country in the manner I dress either." Maria held a polite smile while she continued to speak, scanning the young vampire's expression. "It lets the community know we are here to help first and foremost. To get know us and them, no matter how we dress. I find the uniforms can summon a certain type of hesitation to come forward or a complete unwillingness to approach us at all."
"People are medicine for people Mr.Samson," having the words of her mentor pour out of her mouth. It had been a long time since she had to use a proverb in a situation.
Maria found out years ago Americans valued their privacy and solitude. A huge cultural shock that brought a certain sadness and loneliness Maria could not shake for years. In the Senegalese culture, they valued the importance placed on community, relationships and simply being together. Sitting, shooting the shit, and joking with each other is their cure-all's. Maria felt that is what the Brazilian Quarter needed and after long talks with Jake he had agreed to let Maria help clean up the Quarters and bring forth a bright future for the people.