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August 2007
My stay at Chirikayen cannot be explained in just a few
words. This living experience was both a cultural experience as well as a
personal experience. When you’re told that you make your own adventure wherever
you go, nothing could be more true of Chirikayen. My adventure was filled with
learning, teaching, and emotion. By delving myself into the community, I learned
the ways of Pemón life and was able to take part in everyday activities; at
night I taught English to those taking night classes. The Pemón are a very sweet
people who make the best of everything. During my stay there, I made some great
friends, one in particular with whom I became very close and miss very much.
A typical day involved either hiking, going to the mines, building, going to the conoco to gather yucca and make cassava, bathing, and lounging around. People are very friendly and will talk to you randomly throughout the day (Don’t be surprised if someone gives you a bunch of bananas!). Once I got to know people I found myself hanging out with them, playing games, talking and watching the guys play futbol. I became so close to one family that they considered me like family. Church is also an important factor in their lives, but nobody will every make you go if you don’t want to, it is very lenient.
I guess I could go on and on about different aspects of my experience, but all in all it is what you make of it. I personally fell in love with a culture, a place, a person. The hardest part for me was leaving and now I sit at home in the states wishing I were still there. For me, the experience was life changing.
As for suggestions for those who are unsure what to expect… just go with it, the everyday life. There are always things that need to be done whether helping in construction, going to the conoco, or playing with the kids. Albeit, there is plenty of time for relaxing so I recommend books or whatever will keep you occupied for when it rains or you’re just feeling sluggish. Going with somebody instead of alone is a good idea, especially if you don’t know Spanish. Another note, no matter how much mosquito repellent you have, the puti puti are going to eat you alive. Oh yeah, and don’t be fooled into thinking that the Pemón don’t become puti food either…they just hide it better. Lastly, go with an open mind for you never know what can happen in the middle of the forest. For me, I found paradise and I’m not quite sure I want to give it up.
p.s. There is an outhouse on the left hand side as you are walking down to the missionary village. It took Nicole and I a week to find that thing and nobody told us!! Oh yeah, respect it and love it!