Damned!

Back In The Jungle

The news of the relocation had disturbed many. Word travels fast. A whispered meeting place, that very night and time, was put forth and along the dirt road that weaved from the highway, the Gandan people walked or drove towards the one person they loved and revered. Imama, sat outside in the back yard way that bordered the river. She had laid out a traditional blanket mat for the people to sit on. Others came with their own mats and rugs and placed them beside her own. Young and old came. After 30 minutes of waiting the meeting began with Imama lighting a chalice and saying a prayer to the river god.

"Roshana, you are constantly changing, twisting and turning down your banks. Unlike the god that sits in the frames and buildings of our housed religions, you move and change in order to give us new life, uphold us, revive us. We have been a peaceful community for a long time, upholding the traditions of our ancestors to honor our neighbors and friends, accommodate, take in their traditions. Now their traditions tell us that we have to relocate, without any discussion, it seems as if their god- who is constant and unbending towards negotiations has ordained this. We are asking for your permission to change our tradition of peace in order to preserve the richness of this land for our children."

Giovanna stepped forward with the chalice, placed a stone inside and gave a blessing for the community. The chalice was then passed around, the next person took out the blessing and reiterated the same one or a new blessing and so onward. When the chalice passing was finished, it was decided that their battle would be two-fold. Those who wanted to stop the builders peacefully would position themselves in front of the equipment, and if this was not enough to stop the builders, those who wanted to fight would come second with weapons.

"You all know the cost of violence to both the innocent and the guilty, we must not use violence unless necessary. Remember our warriors must be of age in order to set a good example to our young. Choose your weapons wisely as a means for protection, towards those and that which you love."

The young men who had often fished alongside Imama and chided her religious references stepped forward. Following them were young adult men and women. Many of the elders and teens volunteered to be peaceful protestors. They designed methods of communication and contact. Giovanna looked at the setting sun, declared the meeting to be adjourned and ended with a prayer.

"River Roshana, we are ready then to defend you and the way of life you abundantly provided us," came Giovanna's ending prayer. The villagers gathered their belongings and slowly dispersed into the night.