"People come to East Africa for many reasons. Yet at our core, I believe we come because we long to have our souls touched deeply and our spirits open widely in a manner not possible in the routines of our daily lives.
This is what we are all seeking, whether we know it or not; to experience and expand a part of ourselves that we don't quite know how to get to and yet, when the expansions happens, we are never the same. A permeate shift that has us be more respectful of each other as well as more joyful in our hearts.
When I began this trip, I wondered how long before I would feel my heart beating with Africa's heartbeat, falling deeply in love with the people and her land. The answer: just a day for her magnificence is breathtaking.
The Tanzanian people believe it is their obligation to save their wild life. The diversity and richness of their land, the pride of and commitment for their country, culture and animals has changed me forever. I am humbled and grateful." Merle McKinley
Subnote: Merle had a lovely experience connecting with a young bull elephant. He stopped, listened to her and moved on a few steps, then stopped once again and acknowledged her. It was a really special moment for all of us.