In my time thus far in Panama, I have noticed some unusual cultural differences. Sometimes things have a different meaning in different languages, and that extends from spoken words to signals and gestures. I find it funny that Panamanians also use the middle finger. A few times, while riding on a bus, someone will try to cut us off and flip us the bird while speeding past. But there is something so peculiar and interesting that I absolutely had to share it with all of you.
Say a Panamanian sees something that they want someone else to look at. Or they say, "You mean that one, over there?" Usually, I would motion with my (how should I specify?) head, or possibly my nose. Or I could simplify and just use my index finger. It´s clear enough to get my point across. But as the culture I have noticed here is much more vague, more convoluted, it seems only fitting to do something different, more uncertain in the eyes of an American.
Let me demonstrate:
I took note of it because I´m so accustomed to watching someone´s mouth while they speak (a foreign language) to ensure I understand. The first few times I noticed it, I thought someone was making kissy faces at me. Only after a few weeks did I realize what they were doing: pointing without using their fingers. I guess they figure, Why point with my fingers when I´ve got two perfectly good lips to do it?
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