We met Lolo y Oreana during our astronomy class with the kids. They were asked to give a small introduction about their culture and play a little bit of music to entertain the other participants. And during their play, I realised how meaningful it would be if we could get to know them a little better. So the kids would have an opportunity to learn about the tribes of the Andes, their customs and the spiritual side of their lives.
So the next day, we happened to see them and we proposed them our idea. They loved it and were keen to make some time for us. Last night, Miguel and I went to see them play at the “little terrace” and met a few other people. Mostly musicians. We had a great time and Miguel also played a few songs on our guitar. I so enjoy this. Music is probably the the best way to meet people, especially when you travel. It immediately bonds…There is a connection that you just can’t explain through words..
This afternoon, we brought the boys along. Lolo had organised a little ceremony and explained us the ins and outs of the Aymara culture and customs. Most of it was translated by Miguel for Guido as he still found it hard to follow the conversation in Spanish. A little fire was made with the leaves of the coco plant and “palo santo” to express gratitude to ” Pacha Mama” which means ” Mother Nature”. The boys all helped to find a few branches of wood and then Lolo started to play the flute…
We recognised the song from the other day and while this was happening, I could see how the boys listened and were very intrigued by the sounds and smell of the fire….The whole event took about a hour and tonight we are going to see them play again at the “little terrace”. I sometimes wonder what the boys would think when they look back in time..I hope they will understand the importance of engaging with people from other cultures. In the differences lay the source for empathy and I hope they will carry that with them wherever they go…
x
The Five Gypsies 