What I (re)learned in Africa
I’m spending some time reflecting on my recent trip to Africa. Tanya (my new fiancé ... I’m so excited!!!) and I had a few days in Nairobi, Kenya, but the most amazing part of the trip was seven days on a photo safari in and near the Maasai Mara National Reserve. We stayed in a very nice camp (glamp) with six other couples from the U.S. We were pampered by our hosts, guides, and resort staff. If you’re at all interested in going on a photo safari, do it. It is life-changing. I highly recommend my good friend, Boone Thomson, and his team at Boone Safaris.
During our week in the bush, we saw elephants, lions, giraffes, wildebeests, zebras, cheetahs, rhinos, hyenas, gazelles, impalas, African buffalo, warthogs, mongoose, monkeys, baboons, a jackal, and a leopard. We were able to witness thousands of wildebeests and zebras crossing the Sand River. We went on a hot air balloon ride and rode horses in the wild. Sunrises and sunsets were breathtaking. And the Maasai people were the most gentle, loving, and happy people I’ve ever met.
So, what did I “re-learn” in Africa? By closely observing the wildlife, I witnessed the following:
The importance of community. The animals in Africa tend to stay in groups with their families or neighbors. An animal that finds itself alone in the bush is in grave danger. An animal that is injured or sick and is alone in the bush is soon to be eaten. I’m reminded that humans are the same. We thrive when we are in community with our family and friends. We suffer greatly when we are alone for too long. Do life with other people. Be a good friend and make new friends.
The power of presence. I saw animals of every variety in their natural surroundings. Even though many live in constant risk of being pursued and eaten by a lion, cheetah, leopard, or pack of hyenas, these animals still live in total peace. They are 100% present in the current moment. They are not worrying about the future. They are not regretting or missing things about the past. They are simply living their best lives, connected to nature, one moment at a time.
A few months into Kim’s journey with ALS, she posted on Facebook “Don’t let worrying about tomorrow ruin your today.” I saw the wildlife in Africa with the same agenda, and it was a good reminder for me. I hope it can be a good reminder for you.
Speaking of Kim, I’m thrilled to share that the book, “Born – Love – Die,“ is now through all of the editing processes and is ready to go to print. It will be available for purchase, in paperback and Kindle, on Amazon on October 1st. I’d love your help in getting the word out and in promoting the book. I’ll be back soon with more information on how you can help with this.
I hope you and your family are off to a great month of August, and I’d love to hear what’s new in your world. Also, please let me know if there’s ever anything I can do to help you or yours.
Cheers!