The Fish Monger

When we first arrived in Panama, 2 to 3 fish mongers would park across the street from the supermarket. This was wonderful for us locals but the supermarket didn't like it. The mayor threw them out so no more fresh fish in Boquete.

Big disappointment.

Now I have to drive to David to the fish market. Not a big deal except the market may or may not have what you want, depending on the catch of the day. So a 2 hour trip can be waisted.

There is a fish monger, Miguel, who delivers to restaurants and individuals who ordered fish directly from him. I have tried to find out how to hook up with him but I got no where.

Until last Thursday.

I had parked my car and was walking to the supermarket when a friend scurried across the street to chat. I noticed he had been with a fish monger.

Wow! How did that happen.

I crossed the street and met Miguel.

What a find!

He had 5 pounds of Mahi Mahi, one of my favorite fish.

He dressed it while a waited.

This took 45 minutes. Why? Miguel likes to talk...and he knows a little english.

So he would make a cut, sharpen his knife, stop to talk. And talk. And talk...

I noticed that he had rheumy eyes. And he talked about hitting people and knocking them down.

Apparently the port city of Pedragal is a tough little town. There was a big disturbance the night before where several people were battered and a couple knifed. He was regaling us with his part in breaking up the fight.

All the while masterfully dressing this magnificent fish.

He has slow, unhurried hands...beautiful hands. Man, can he dress a fish.

His gentle hands and soft personality are inconsistent with his rhetoric about hitting people... What the fu#$#!

I think he was drunk too. It was 3 PM so maybe it was time to start the party. I got his last fish so it was quitting time.

Now I have a way to contact Miguel.

Let the fresh fish roll!

Oh, there is more to the dichotomy of Miguel. He is an electrical engineer and certified Microsoft and Apple technician. Yet he finds a great life for himself being a fish monger.

Makes one think about living the career life rather than one closer to the food chain.