“Andrew to Andy: The Mexico Story and the Birth of LOK’IM”

My name is Andrew Smith, born on January 16, 1981, in Fall River, Massachusetts. From a young age, I never felt like I fit in. My childhood was marked by trauma, including the loss of my mother in 1985 and a diagnosis of bipolar disorder and manic depression. These challenges guaranteed a long and difficult road ahead. Nothing came easy; I learned from my own mistakes, and I made a lot of them.

This journey has guided me through 48 continental United States and 29 states in Mexico. The things I have seen and the experiences I have lived have shaped who I am today.

On January 22, 2017, in Ocoyoacac, Estado de Mexico, I started working for Meli—a man who today is one of my closest friends and brothers. As his maintenance worker, night security, and kitchen helper at “La Chammorros” (the turnaround to head back to Toluca), a buffet-style restaurant named Antiguo Rescaldo, a friendship was forged that would transcend borders and years. From the sandy beaches of Las Barrancas to the bustling kitchens of Meli’s three restaurants, our epic journey together has been one of faith, resilience, and profound transformation.

The sandy beaches of Las Barrancas will always feel like a second home, for that little town gave me so much and saw me not as a foreigner in their country, some “gringo,” but as myself. For the people of Las Barrancas, I will always be thankful for all they have given and shared with me. Their acceptance and kindness provided me with a sense of belonging that was crucial during my journey of self-discovery.

In 2021, after splitting up with my “vanie” at the time, I found myself in Puebla with some spiritual family. It was here that the idea of Love Obedience Kindness in Training (LOK’IM) was born. Initially, it started as a pet-services company focused on training and handling. From training came Motion, and from Motion came Me. This transformative process of mind, body, and soul is what LOK’IM truly stands for.

The idea that started in Puebla has grown into what LOKI R&R is today. Everything began with a puppy, my faithful companion Loki, who was given to me in 2017. Together, we backpacked through 29 states of Mexico, seeking peace and love. Loki taught me invaluable lessons about love and resilience, and he was my emotional rock during our journey. Without him, I wouldn’t be here today, able to share this message with you.

LOKI R&R is a testament to the power of love, obedience, and kindness in motion. It represents a journey of transformation and the belief that we can make this world a better place. Join us on this incredible journey to bring LOKI R&R to the world. Let’s work together to create a future filled with hope, healing, and renewal.

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