The origin of the Kiswahili word safari means a journey. And during our life journeys, we are called upon to co-exist with each other in different ways. Sometimes we must pull back, and step aside to give others the space to live and grow. Sometimes space is taken away from those who have thrived in areas they have called home for hundreds of years.
I recently read an article about choices that are being made which could displace the Maasai, a nomadic tribe, living in Tanzania. There are devastating stories all over the world about people who are displaced, or forced to homelessness, for one reason or the other. Unfortunately, the Maasai won’t make front page news.
As we journey through our lives, there are large and small ways in which we can give and/or take away. And each of these decisions matter. They either impact or devastate our well-being, the well-being of a people, and of course our planet. Yet, we think the smaller the choice, the less importance it has in the scheme of things. The buildup makes a huge difference. Little pieces of literal or symbolic poison ends up destroying lives and livelihood. Continuous acts and attitudes with which you walk through your journey, opens doors, or blocks pathways.
When you consider life as an ongoing safari, you are invited to think about the plans you make, why you make them, and how you walk through each moment of your day.
Beyond the more popular concept of a safari meaning animal watching on East Africa’s beautiful plains, a safari is both a journey and a destination that we take daily. Be gentle, empathetic, and respectful in the environments within which you walk. And most importantly, have compassion for those who walk amongst you.
Safari well,
