KOILAWAN ( A Narrative Poetry)

KOILAWAN

Out in the jungle called Koilawan,
Patches of clearings with stilt houses of fronds.
Dwelt in by people known as Up-the-Mountain...
Friars ignored them; lowlanders feared them.

Writings told me they are fierce and wild.
Entering their turf considered a suicide.
Thy'd kill and ambush at the flip of their thumbs...
Spears and arrows are always in their hands.

Living with fierce people is scary.
Initial contact makes you feel edgy.
Particularly forewarned taboo in their society...
If you'd be careful, you'd be okay.

Assigned to work for years in Koilawan,
Goal to educate, translate books as planned.
A bird took me in flying over forest and ridges...
Wobbly landed near the river bank with welcoming band.

These fierce people also were gentle.
With callous hands, they shook my hands delightful.
Lifestyle may differ; love may not be.
Sincerity was present...that's what I see.

Socializing a must to a major adjustment...
Persistence needed to learn the language.
Observing their culture helped my existence...
Safe and secure in a place called Koilawan.

Overcoming barriers a-priority...
Understanding them made living easy.
Every culture is unique; so be considerate.
Knowing, learning, and relating: a must to assimilate.

E. Industan