The Art of Double Talk

Here is a picture of the hostel where I am staying.  I like staying at a hostel rather than a hotel because younger people tend to stay at the cheaper places.  A more interesting group.

Yesterday was a "get things done" kind of day.  I have to be careful because I am in Panama where the culture is not completion oriented.  

Among other things, I met with my builder in the afternoon.  He was 45 minutes late just to let you know how things go here.  

My builder, Toto, is a very nice guy who I like a lot.  He has done an exceptional job for us.  But, there is a communication problem created by the different native languages and the culture.  We are forever misunderstanding each other.  I just don't think it can be avoided.

And, he is a master of double talk.  A verbal slight of hand trick.  A trip down "what did he say" land.  I have pretty much given up on actually thinking that I know what he means.  

The building process here goes as it will go and no amount of guiding, influencing, nudging, forcing, begging, pleading, cajoling or just plain out requesting will influence the outcome.  

Now, for the most part, the outcome is more than satisfactory.  But...I am trying to make plans for when Yella should arrive in Panama and arrive to a house that is habitable.  There is the rub.  I will never get an expected completion date from Toto.  It moves, changes, disappears, slides around, hides and jumps.

That is just the way it is. I know, I should just accept it...but...then I have only been in Panama a couple of days and I am not fully acclimated so back off!

On another note, I ate lunch at a Panamanian cafe yesterday.  I had rice and beans and incredibly fresh cucumbers, onions and tomatoes for the grand price of $1.50.  

That certainly helps some of my frustrations!