Yesterday we went to the market in Garoka. Thirteen white people in a sea of five to six hundred. People staring, pointing… I now have a greater appreciation for the definitions of awkward and freak show.
They prepped us for our market experience by telling us that thievery has become rampant. There has been a dramatic shift from opportunism – if you leave it you must not want it – to robbery – you are rich enough to buy another one. We were to be very aware of who was around us and how we carried cameras, backpacks, etc. We were also made aware that groping is culturally acceptable. They are a very touchy society. In fact, it is often a sign of respect and admiration if seventy year old ladies walk by and give you a little “atta boy” on the backside. Can you say, “Awkward? Freak show.”? For our ladies it’s not so nice to be complimented that way. I wonder why.
In any event, several of us guys assumed the role of body guard and security detail for the ladies. I finally found an outlet for the intimidation factor so many people accuse me of possessing. We paid special attention to Karey, who was disappointed to only shoot 120 or so photos in the 15 minutes we were there. “I’m so frustrated. The ground is so muddy and slippery I have to watch where I’m walking.” She wasn’t kidding. Ryan White purchased a two foot piece of sugar cane two inches in diameter. At 6’7” he towered over the crowd, looking like a giant gnawing on a log he couldn’t wait to beat someone with. Needless to say, we made it through the crowd with several smiles and nods. Karey was slipping and snapping photos, resisting our prodding to leave… much like a little kid who’s not ready for bed.
As we made it to the parking lot, others were in the van waiting. The general crowd had grown closer to a thousand or so. This is a crazy place.
As Derek and I were the last to enter the van, a little commotion breaks out in a back seat. Apparently, while waiting for us, those in the van were being stalked by a couple of “rascals”, the local term for thieves and druggies. One fiend was particularly brazen. As Derek and I entered, this guy had gone to the opposite side of the van reached through the window, between Nathan Pearsey and the seat, grabbed his camera and bolted in less than a second. Nathan yelled. We looked. The crowd looked.
They prepped us for our market experience by telling us that thievery has become rampant. There has been a dramatic shift from opportunism – if you leave it you must not want it – to robbery – you are rich enough to buy another one. We were to be very aware of who was around us and how we carried cameras, backpacks, etc. We were also made aware that groping is culturally acceptable. They are a very touchy society. In fact, it is often a sign of respect and admiration if seventy year old ladies walk by and give you a little “atta boy” on the backside. Can you say, “Awkward? Freak show.”? For our ladies it’s not so nice to be complimented that way. I wonder why.
In any event, several of us guys assumed the role of body guard and security detail for the ladies. I finally found an outlet for the intimidation factor so many people accuse me of possessing. We paid special attention to Karey, who was disappointed to only shoot 120 or so photos in the 15 minutes we were there. “I’m so frustrated. The ground is so muddy and slippery I have to watch where I’m walking.” She wasn’t kidding. Ryan White purchased a two foot piece of sugar cane two inches in diameter. At 6’7” he towered over the crowd, looking like a giant gnawing on a log he couldn’t wait to beat someone with. Needless to say, we made it through the crowd with several smiles and nods. Karey was slipping and snapping photos, resisting our prodding to leave… much like a little kid who’s not ready for bed.
As we made it to the parking lot, others were in the van waiting. The general crowd had grown closer to a thousand or so. This is a crazy place.
As Derek and I were the last to enter the van, a little commotion breaks out in a back seat. Apparently, while waiting for us, those in the van were being stalked by a couple of “rascals”, the local term for thieves and druggies. One fiend was particularly brazen. As Derek and I entered, this guy had gone to the opposite side of the van reached through the window, between Nathan Pearsey and the seat, grabbed his camera and bolted in less than a second. Nathan yelled. We looked. The crowd looked.
I thought about chasing. He’s young and has a head start. I’m… old. (That hurts!) Camera’s gone.
Then out of nowhere we witness social justice PNG style. As this rascal is sprinting full speed to safety, a forty-something man sticks out his arm and clotheslines this rascal. Knocked him flat on his back. Way to go old guy!! Derek and I instantly run as a crowd forms around the punk. I think a few kicks and punches were thrown before the he managed to escape. Apparently, the crowd realized we were with New Tribes, who is highly regarded in the community, and didn’t want them to be offended. Social justice for a criminal can result in severe beatings for the offender that brings him dangerously close to death.
Mr. Clothesline had secured the camera and returned it to us as we approached. As the crowd pressed in for a front row seat I realized I might not be in such a good position. Giving our new friend a good handshake, pat on the shoulder and a little reward, we beat a hasty retreat to the van which was attracting its own crowd. For those in complete suspense, you should know that we survived and are here to tell you the story. God is good.
Then out of nowhere we witness social justice PNG style. As this rascal is sprinting full speed to safety, a forty-something man sticks out his arm and clotheslines this rascal. Knocked him flat on his back. Way to go old guy!! Derek and I instantly run as a crowd forms around the punk. I think a few kicks and punches were thrown before the he managed to escape. Apparently, the crowd realized we were with New Tribes, who is highly regarded in the community, and didn’t want them to be offended. Social justice for a criminal can result in severe beatings for the offender that brings him dangerously close to death.
Mr. Clothesline had secured the camera and returned it to us as we approached. As the crowd pressed in for a front row seat I realized I might not be in such a good position. Giving our new friend a good handshake, pat on the shoulder and a little reward, we beat a hasty retreat to the van which was attracting its own crowd. For those in complete suspense, you should know that we survived and are here to tell you the story. God is good.
