Author Description

On the muddy shore of the blackwater lake, curious people helped us from one dugout canoe to another, carrying my sister, my baby brother, and half-carrying me. The men wore loin cloths or cloths wrapped around their waists, the women, grass skirts and a few blouses. They stroked our soft silky hair, held my tiny pale hands, and led us slowly through the mud to our new jungle home. These people had been cannibals, and my parents were missionaries. I was four years old. Colonialism was the operating system in this primordial swamp and spectacular rainforest region. Eventually, I would grow up to help save the rainforest with two National Geographic expeditions. I would loosen the hold of prejudice and come to deeply value and respect the rainforest people. This is the backstory for Rendezvous with a Rainforest. These vivid, raw childhood memories will pierce your soul with amazement.