Bolivian Bowler Hats 9

Bolivian Bowler Hats 9

“Well we made a great profit today. I think I will ask your sister to allow me a few dollars. I saw Berardo complaining his drums were not selling fast enough. He is a greedy old fart and asks triple the price. Told me the tourists have the money but do not purchase. I told him he asks too much. I think ten dollars American will clear his mind if I take all the drums.” said Oscar.

“What will you do with all the drums?” questioned Marilynn.

“Villancicos, are the Christmas Carols of the Bolivian culture. Songs that celebrate Christmas played on native instruments to the rhythm of native music.

In Bolivia, it is very common to see poor children working, and one of the ways they make money is singing and dancing Villancicos on the streets. I'm thinking not all children will have an instrument. So why not give them drums!” smiled Oscar.

“I have heard many homes place the baby Jesus in the manger on Christmas Eve. After the baby is blessed in La Misa de Gallo they do this.

What exactly is La Misa de Gallo?” asked Marilynn.

“La Misa de Gallo is a tradition of Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve. Early Christians honored the mystery of Jesus Birth with a midnight vigil at Bethlehem.

Followed by a procession that would end at dawn, when roosters crow.

The Bolivians honor this tradition by getting together as a family to share a meal. A very traditional meal in Boliva is la Picana, a stew made with chicken, beef (or lamb) and pork; served with potatoes and corn. I had the honor to share this meal with a Bolivian family back in the States. Perhaps it one of the reasons I chose to come live in Bolivia.” answered Oscar softly.

December 23 the townspeople got together in the square. It was a night to celebrate the poor, especially the children. Cups of steaming hot chocolate were handed out to everyone. Baskets of breads and cookies were also handed out to those in need.

Many children in the town that were not in need rummaged through their closets. They took clothing and shoes to the church for volunteers to size and sort. Only clean and usable clothes were accepted. The clothes would be wrapped and labeled boy or girl with the size.

Christmas Eve the clothing would be distributed to the needy. There also would be a nice dinner for all after Mass.

Oscar, Marilynn, Richard and Karen handed out the purchased drums. Marilynn and Karen had also found Jingle Bells on ribbons at a great price. They handed these instruments out also.

December twenty four music was heard. The children started out playing:

The Drummer

The road that leads to Bethlehem

goes down to the valley where the snow covered

The shepherds want to see their King,

they bring gifts in their humble wallet

to the Redeemer, the Redeemer.

I would like to put at your feet

some present that pleases you Lord,

but you already know that I am poor too,

and I have nothing but an old drum.

(Rom pom pom pom, rom pom pom pom)

In your honor in front of the portal I will play with my

drum!

The road that leads to Bethlehem

I mark with my old drum,

there is nothing better that I can offer,

its husky accent is a song of love

to the Redeemer, the Redeemer.

When God saw me playing before him he smiled at me. 

The adults joined in singing. Some adults brought their favorite instruments from home.

 Senor Cabrera was covered with a blanket. One of his daughters pushed him in a wheelchair. He played his harmonica as he rode along the sidewalk to Church.

After mass the four were invited to the Cabrera's for the traditional meal. No one saw Oscar and Marilynn slip outside to the smoking table.

“I do smoke a cigar after dinner. I just wanted to come outdoors for some fresh air.” said Oscar.

“I was about to suggest coming outside for a bit of fresh air also. I wanted to give you a gift. I know we said no gifts. I found something I liked in that shop. There was only one so if you do not like it I will keep.” said Marilynn as she handed Oscar a tiny cloth bag.

Oscar opened the cloth bag to find inside a hand painted nativity set where the figures attired in traditional Bolivian dress.

“I love the set. I know we agreed to no gifts. I also have a gift for you.” said Oscar as he held out a small box.

“I hope you accept this ring. When you are ready. I feel we should live our lives together.” said Oscar.

“I am ready now. We do belong together.” said Marilynn as Oscar slipped the ring on her finger.

Richard and Karen came outside looking for the couple.

“Hey you two?

What's up?” Asked Richard.

“We're getting married in June” said Marilynn.

“June”? Asked Richard.

Oscar said “ June is plenty of time for us to finish our future house.                                             Help you two finish your house

and  

for Karen and Mrs Cabrera to plan the wedding.” laughed Oscar.

©Julia A Knaake