Panama is Easy
“Panama is easy! You’ll love it here!” they said.
Our first months living in Panama, I questioned this statement. As with moving to any new place, the beginning is always a mix of emotions.
Road closures and protests during our first months living in Panama made me question our decision to move from Finland. The road closures stopped fresh fruit and vegetable imports from reaching the city, leaving us with only our go-to American classic—peanut butter and jelly sandwiches—for most lunches.
I lived through torrential downpours and some of the highest rainfall Panama has ever seen. There was an intense drought.
Our school community broke down over a disagreement about gay rights.
More protests broke out during our second year. The entire country ground to a halt, and we were forced to teach virtually for two weeks. Police tear-gassed protesters outside of our apartment window.
Panama is easy, they said.
…
I lived in Panama for two years and even though we saw a lot of chaos and heartbreak, I also came to understand why Panama is easy.
During my time there, I came to see Panama as an exemplary Latin American country—one with a big heart and a dream to be better.
I saw how important long, slow beach days are to the Panamanian people—with no rush to get back on the traffic-filled roads. A Yeti tumbler in one hand and a big sun hat in the other, sitting in the warm ocean water for hours.
I saw the country slow down during the rainy season. People take in the rain from the comfort of their homes. Sipping coffee from Boquete on a Saturday morning while watching the rain from my big windows became something I looked forward to.
The easy way servers come to your table to ask, “¿Algo más?” after you’ve finished your dinner over an hour ago. The quiet “buen provecho” as someone walks by your table eating. The long, unrushed meals have slowed me down and made me appreciate time with friends and family.
Latin beats drift from car windows wherever you go.
I saw the Guna women weave together colorful scraps of fabric to form intricately designed molas. Making years of tradition look easy.
The constant invites to pool parties, dinners, beach days, and events. The warmth and openness of so many Panamanians gently nudged us out of our shells.
Jon and I talk a lot about how living abroad is an experience no one can take away from you. It is a time in your life that shapes who you are. As I begin a new adventure in a new country, I will try to remember that it isn’t always easy, but it is always worth it.
I am eternally grateful for my time in Panama. Thank you to everyone who made it so special and easy.
Talk soon,
Jessica
