Sydney, Australia

YA-MA (means hello in the Gamilleroi aboriginal language) Family and Friends,

As lovers of the written word, we are fascinated by the fact that none of the 250 aboriginal languages have an alphabet or any written language. In addition to their oral tradition of storytelling, they express themselves through dance, music, and painting.

This means that it is impossible to misspell a word. As long as you pronounce it properly, the aboriginal interpreters are happy.

In book group we recently discussed the subject of cultural appropriation. This is evident in force here. White guides refuse to interpret aboriginal culture. There seems to be a national understanding of how destructive colonialism has been to the aboriginals and new-found efforts to show respect and make amends.

Today we continued our deep-dive into aboriginal culture with an authentic "interpreter." We sailed to Balangliwoh Island.

E-ora means "the people."

The aboriginal flag, seen more often now flying side by side with the Australian one, is red, yellow, and black. Red for land, yellow for sun, black for the people.

Just think....today the aboriginal tribes comprise two percent of the population. Just 250 years ago it was 100 percent.

No travel experience is complete with sampling the local cuisine. We tasted "bush takka," kangaroo pie and emu sausage rolls.

There are just too many facts and stories to recount here but one of my favorites is about the kasarian trees:

Aborigines call these trees "nature's mothers." Mothers told their children that if they got lost in the bush to find one of these trees to sit under until they're found. The reason is the needles of the Kasarian tree repel snakes.

The Digeradoo not only makes music but attracts emus! Contrary to what we thought, it is not carved. The wood is hollowed out by termites.