astounding. great post.
notice most lack shoes?
“notice most lack shoes?”
I worked at a mine in Papua New Guinea for awhile. Many of the local tribesmen that got “civilized” (to an extent) worked at the mine. High altitude, sharp rocks on the paths, cold temperatures.
At the edge of the mine site proper along a walking path that headed off towards a mountain pass was a pile of boots. I asked about it, and they said the locals can’t stand wearing boots, but have to on the mine. But when they quit and go back home (walking 20-50 miles over the pass to get to their remote villages) they dump their boots. But the hard hats and other cloths they’ll keep and use. But they would rather go barefoot.
I remember one time working off-site along that path and a family came walking by. One of our local helpers ran to talk with them. It was snowing/sleeting. They had shorts and t-shirts (dad, mom, two young kids) and that was it. Each was carrying a mesh bag the size of a grocery bag. Our helper came back and I asked “what are THEY doing up here!?” They were visiting relatives in another village. And had come from 20 miles away, and had another 10 to go. Unbelievable!