Dia Internacional de la Juventud is actually on August 12th, but Nueva Guinea is celebrating today, August 15th. We were formally invited (typed up, personalized, and stamped invitation by the mayors office!) to participate. What was first on the agenda? A 4am la diana.
On the sides and backs of the trucks were two motorcycles driving around two guys with fireworks. Every once in a while they would stop or veer off onto another street and light a firework. One guy had those fireworks with the really long sticks that shoot straight up and then pop really loudly two times. I saw him light the fireworks, he had about 15, with his cigarette and hold the stick in his hand, the part that normally is supposed to be securely placed in the ground, until it shot off! Towards the end, we’re talking 5:15am, those guys were also downing some beers. Luckily no one was hurt!
The caravan ended at the youth clubhouse where Tim was offered some illegal substance to smoke, which he declined. The morning was topped off with a complimentary traditional breakfast, which consisted of a nacatamal, coffee, and two slices of white bread.
The coffee and bread I could do without, but the Nicaraguan nacatamal should never be missed. It’s delicious. It’s made of corn dough, rice, mashed potatoes, onion, tomatoes, mint leaves, chili sauce, either beef or chicken, and some spices. All cooked together and wrapped in a banana leaf, served hot. It’s truly amazing!
I have to say that at 3:30am when my alarm went off I seriously debated forgoing this event. I’m pleased to say that it was well worth the couple missed hours of sleep! We learned more about the culture and had some amazing food. But more importantly, we supported some community leaders in their event. In a culture that honors relationships above professional demands, this small early morning activity was truly an investment in our work here. – Caressa