"An evening of dancing by Simbilando schoolchildren" Vella Lavella Island Travelogue by minstrel74

My host arranged for all the schoolchildren to come out the evening I arrived and perform dances that they had learned at home and at school. Despite being rather nervous and a bit out of practice, the children were very proud and enthusiastic and put on a wonderful show. They shrieked with delight every time I took a photograph and the flash went off .

Simbilando schoolgirls dancing

After the boys performed their dances, the girls came out for their turn dressed in their best school uniforms. They were very proud and did a wonderful job. I think their parents were proud, too. I certainly would be if I were they.

I must admit, I was a little embarrased by all the attention, but this was a very special moment for these people and it was certainly a very special moment for me. After three months spent in the South Pacific, I can't think of anything that topped this experience. One thing's for sure--experiencing another culture like this really changes you as a person. Your eyes open; your sense of shared humanity broadens. Everyone should experience something like this in their lifetimes.