colombia-panama-pipeline
El Jefe was the boss of our operation.
I met him once in Bogota, Colombia, and I spoke to him four times on the phone. I don’t know very much about him — because I didn’t ask. Asking isn’t something you did. He was a man of mystery and planned to keep it that way.
He was well-connected in the Colombian government, had influence with the army generals, and connections all over the world.
Once when we had to move our operation from Venezuela to Panama, and we needed merchandise ASAP, within 24 hours the boss had 1000 kilos of cocaine in Panama ready to be shipped.
When I worked with him, he was in his early 40s, 5′ 10” and weighed about 165 lbs. His hair was thin and black with cruel streaks of grey.
He was soft-spoken with a calm personality, but never took “no” for an answer.
El Jefe appreciated my work and once said to me, “You’re always welcome in Colombia. Stay as long as you like. Your money is no good here.”
I felt as though he had just given me the keys to the country.
The Baggage Handler 
Thanks for following my blog. I just realize, how different people’s life can be…I will keep coming back here! Cheers,
You are cryptic and describe real life in latin america and the ‘spice’ of the people!
It’s good to get the truth out to begin some other conversation than evening news:
http://zeroanthropology.net/2012/07/31/the-goat-caught-in-bushkazi-personal-effects-of-ones-role-in-the-great-game/ . Soon, it will become clear.
“black with cruel streaks of gray.” I see it. I like it. Thanks for liking my two writing challenges and for following. I appreciate it.
I enjoy the way you write, I’ll keep reading.
Thanks for following. Interesting Blog
Turned down my invitation to Cali, Columbia. Like a good coyoter I watch out for my skin…it’s the only one I’ll ever have.
Later…
I appreciate you following my blog. I, too, have a friend in Bogota, Colombia; though my friend is a Seminarian for the Servants of Charity. I will read more of your entries.
Hmmmmmmmhh
There is no replacement for the keys to the country.
Where is the door? Keys w/o a door, eh?
Hello Author Charmaine, Please read my Blog
“We Broke the Chain”
that’s the key you’re looking for….JJ
I’ve always wanted to go to Columbia…thank you for taking me there!! Nice to meet you El Jefe!