Man, what a day! I swear, being a swineherd in Jayapura is like riding a rollercoaster with no seatbelt. So, I wake up, right? The sun’s blasting through my window, and I’m like, “Ugh, another day of chasing pigs.” But today? Today was different.
First off, I hit the streets of Jayapura, and lemme tell ya, the vibe was electric. I’m walking down Jalan Raya Abepura, and the smell of fried banana hits me. I’m like, “Yesss, breakfast!” Grabbed a couple from a street vendor. Best decision ever. Those things are like little bites of heaven.
Then, I head over to the market at Pasar Youtefa. It’s packed! People everywhere, haggling like it’s the Olympics. I’m just trying to get some feed for my pigs, but these folks are loud! I mean, I love a good bargain, but chill, people! I’m dodging carts and kids, and I almost trip over a chicken. Like, c’mon, man!
So, I finally get my stuff and head to the waterfront. The view? Stunning! The ocean’s all sparkly, and I’m just standing there, soaking it in. But then, outta nowhere, this huge boat pulls up. It’s like a floating city! Turns out, it’s a tourist boat. They’re all snapping pics, and I’m like, “Hey, look at me, the swineherd!” But no one cares. Typical, right?
Then, I get this wild idea. I’m gonna show these tourists what real Jayapura is about. So, I start doing this goofy dance with my pig. Yeah, I know, I’m a weirdo. But hey, it’s all in good fun! And guess what? They start laughing and filming me! I’m like, “Yesss, I’m a star!”
But then, bam! My pig decides it’s time to run. I’m chasing it down Jalan Soa-Sio, yelling like a madman. “Come back, you little rascal!” People are cracking up, and I’m just a sweaty mess. Finally, I catch it near the old church. Thank goodness! I’m panting, and this old lady gives me a thumbs up. I’m like, “Yeah, I’m a pro swineherd!”
After that chaos, I needed a break. So, I hit up a warung for some soto. Man, that soup is life! I’m slurping it down, and this guy next to me starts chatting. Turns out, he’s a fisherman. We swap stories, and I’m laughing so hard, I almost spill my soup.
But then, the mood shifts. I hear this commotion outside. A bunch of folks are gathered, and I’m like, “What now?” Turns out, there’s a protest about some land issues. People are fired up, and I get it. Land is everything here. But man, the tension is thick. I’m standing there, feeling all sorts of emotions. Angry, sad, confused.
I decide to head home after that. I’m walking back, and the sun’s setting over Jayapura. The sky’s all orange and pink, and I can’t help but smile. Despite the craziness, this city has my heart.
So, I get home, and my pigs are waiting. They’re all snuggled up, and I’m like, “You guys are the real MVPs.” I plop down, exhausted but happy. What a day, right? Just another wild ride in Jayapura. Can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings!