Still Searching For That Coffee House

Descending slowly into new terrain, we gazed in awe at the scene below us. A veil of silence swathed the vehicle. Fourteen thousand seven hundred and fifty square kilometres of the mighty Serengeti presented itself. Undoubtedly some of the most breath-taking landscape in the world. Seemingly untouched by man. This African legacy is known for the massive annual migration of wildebeest and zebra.  

The Maasai warriors welcomed us to their village in their own strange way.  Standing in a circle with each man balancing firmly on one leg. They are known for their incredible jumping skills. Vaulting to great heights from a standing position. This spellbinding activity is a means in which the young warriors display their physical skills. A few of us attempted to match these skills. We were soon enough put to shame in our feeble attempt of demonstrating our strength. 

Jenni and I found ourselves in an enclosure made of sticks and thorn trees. A group of children seated on the red earth stared back at us. As teachers, our skills were sought after. The setting could not have been more different to the privileged classrooms in the International schools back in Beijing. However, children around the world have the same wants and needs. They deserve the same precious gifts of learning and of play. In the heart of the untamed wilderness, under the African sun, were smiling faces. Each one looking to the adults to share knowledge. Jenni led them in song. Grateful Maasai herdsmen in their flaming red robes looked on. 

During our time with the Maasai, we gained a deeper insight into their lives. Into their survival in the wilderness. Into their secrets of enduring extreme heat and dryness. And of course, how they deal with the obvious dangers from disease and wild animals. It was noted that many of the men wore quality watches and used mobile phones. Progress is necessary. Clearly making its way to the Maasai. 

The warriors live on milk, blood and meat. They do not partake in a fruit and vegetable diet at all. Thus, throwing many nutritional theories into the blender. It was fascinating to learn that it is not uncommon for Maasai to reach the age of one hundred years old. Their traditional healing is based on the philosophy of caring for their children, land and cattle. We boarded our jeeps once more. Hearts full of compassion. Our beings richer and wiser.

Driving through the Serengeti for a solid nine hours held me captivated. Not for a single second was it possible to tire of seeing the Acacia and Fever trees. People flock to these plains to see the animals. I need the trees. I regard them as sacred. Each tree being a work of genius. A divine temple. A testimony to the power and elegance of nature. I looked at and appreciated the trees of Serengeti. My soul rejuvenated. My body revitalised.

After a day of engaging with life and the miracles that are the Serengeti, we found refuge at Seronera Campsite. We crawled into our sleeping bags. Warmth and protection from the icy cold night air. Falling sound asleep to the sounds of Africa. The hyenas, the wild pigs and the neighbours snored and grunted. 

To be continued ...