Until Saturday morning, our experience in Kenya had been limited to the busy city streets of Mombasa. We thoroughly enjoyed exploring the Old Town, downtown, and the beach areas. On Saturday, however, we had the opportunity to embark upon a one-day safari. While a safari is considered by many to be the quintessential African experience, it was one that surpassed our preconceptions in many ways.
As is the case with most cities, much of Mombasa’s wealth is concentrated within the city centre. As we ventured out of the city, we witnessed the living conditions of the poor. Homes were crafted with recycled plastic and wood boards, much of which appeared to be sourced from the city dump and built on the muddy shoulders of the highway leading to the city. The families occupying this area had set up shops outside of the buildings. As we passed, we could see many of the products being made. I was stricken with awe as I noted the talent that many of these people had-particularly demonstrated by some of the intricately designed wooden pieces of furniture. Intriguingly, among this poverty surrounding the city was a community that appeared to be self-sufficient, multi-talented, and happy. As I reflect, I recognize that there is nothing like experience to enlighten presuppositions.
We traveled for two hours in a Northwesterly direction until we reached Tsavo East Park. The landscape was beautiful. I can now saw with confidence that no picture or description of the African landscape can prepare you for the majesty of the experience. The soil was a vibrant orange and was dotted with Savannah grasses and trees. Within minutes of entering the park, we were greeted by a family of Red Elephants. As we made our way through the park in the direction of our lodge, we stopped often to gaze at animals that had, for me, only been objects of stories. We saw Baboons, Zebras, Giraffes, and many other Savannah animals. After sundown, we made our way to our lodge in the park. The atmosphere was serene. After dinner, we gazed at the silhouettes of Red Elephants just beyond the surrounding fence. The sky was clear and we had a clear view of the full moon and the stars of the Southern Hemisphere. As I looked out across the expansive park, I felt a feeling of insignificance in a world that is so majestic. With the prospect of another drive in at sunrise, it was difficult to sleep. I can speak for the entire team in reiterating the overwhelming sense of gratefulness for the experience that we have had.
After our second day of the safari, we traveled back to Mombasa. As we began to enter to city, we could smell the dust in the air and were greeted by the communities along the outskirts. I was amazed that, after just twenty-four hours in the Game Park, I once again experienced a sense of culture shock.
We assume our roles as teachers tomorrow morning and I look forward to the experiences that await!