The Robbers

I was so excited when I saw a pair of Kekeno fur seals dancing on the beach. I set up my camera and prepared to capture the best moments. Then a group of foreign tourists from the country of my ancestors ran onto the beach, with their thunderous voices. While splashing through the water, they began posing and taking each other’s pictures. With that, the Kekeno pair dove back into the sea.

If there was ever a time I regretted never making time to learn my ancestors’ language, it was right then, and right there, on Taiaroa Head. There were signs everywhere asking visitors to stay quiet so as not to disturb the animals. Everyone walked silently along the beach. Even parents made sure their children kept their voices down. I never complained while traveling the Silk Road through my ancestors’ country, from east to west, because it was their home. But not here!

I waited, and waited. The Kekeno pair never resumed their dance, and this was all I could get.

Have you ever had your chance robbed by someone who’s actually close to you?