Guests of Embera Drua

GUESTS OF EMBERA DRUA We are guests in this village on the Chagris River shore. Tribe members of Embera Drua twist palms of Panama - embrace us each, with this wreath of scented flora, language barriers break down with food and dance. In this jungle we’ve no need to be formal in dress, the natives share achiote seeds to redden my lips and cheeks. And fresh coconut chased down with sips of sugar cane, plenteous Panamanian fruit, hot lunch served in banana leaves. Before we position our eyes upon the treasured trades we are invited to join them for some entertainment. Our acquaintances in tribal wear, write lyrics upon their dirt floor ballroom, with calloused feet. Dressed in paloma skirt and cotton taparabo, men and women invite tourists to dance with them, as drums pulse and flutes charm. We will remember the stilted homes of our friends, dogs lazing underneath the floor, abundance of fruit trees, a school in development so students can remain with parents instead of placing sandals upon feet and leaving their family home. Our dugout canoe glides back to the shore of lily pads, we swim with invigorated thoughts and gladness. Kim Rodrigues © 2017