Structure was evident primarily in the strict daily worship times that occurred every day. I was surprised as to the structure found in the language upon hearing interviews with the locals. It didn't resemble the hybrid language used by Bob Marley (perhaps the most familiar Rasta voice), but was very "gramatically correct" compared with American English, given the exception of dialect. I also found structure in the tending of small-scale agriculture with the minor use of irrigation as well as their production of brooms for income.
I found the amount of symbolism to be quite obvious and prevalent throughout the commuity. The clothing worn by the members of the community was African in style, including a turban, and were often red, gold, or green - the Rastafari/Ethiopian colors. The traditional colors were used in clothing, flags, and even adorned their houses.
The best comparrison I could make to the contrast in culture between this particular Rasta community and other practicing Rastas all within the same country was to compare to the different denominations of Christianity (something I'm a little more familiar with). Obviously, some denominations will be more orthodox and strict than others in practice and ritual. Even the same denominations have variations in their practice, such as between Lutheran and Wisconsin or Missouri Synod Lutheran, without huge contrasts in faith.
As I mentioned in class, I found the presence of the Rastafari/Ethiopian colors to be above and beyond any such patriotic 'norm' present in the United States.
Then again, I've been wrong before.
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