I think I haven’t shared until now, because I didn’t have the right words. For at least a week after my return, my emotional roller coaster took loops and dives that nearly derailed me on several occasions. Hours after coming home, I could still feel their little hands in mine. For days, I could hear the ringing of their songs in my ears. Now, weeks later, I still see those eyes. Those deep chocolate catacombs that no more let you in, than keep you out. They tell stories that make you laugh, cry or quake. All without breathing a word.
I think this may be the beauty of Africa. Well, the beauty for me anyways. For everyone, it’s different. My journey to Africa was like a slap upside the head with a fist full of Wake the {BLEEP} Up!!! (You can fill in the blank.) Now, maybe the rest of my comrades weren’t as numb to the senses as I was, but I was forced to look inside myself OVER and OVER and OVER! As a result, I can see it, I can smell it, I can taste it, I can hear it, but most of all I can feel it in the depths of my soul that we are meant to do great things with the life we’ve been given. All of us.
I needed Africa like a flame needs a spark. Like honey needs a bee. I needed Africa more than it needed me.
9 comments
Your ability to share your heart through words and pictures always amazes me. Thank you!!! I love ya sweetie.
Amazing! Beautiful! I have been so excited to see your pictures. They were gorgeous but your words were just as equally as beautiful.
WOW! what an amazing album. I am so happy that you were able to go on this journey. Thank you so much for sharing this.
xoxo
You are an amazing woman for listening so deeply, and an amazing photographer to capture your emotions in the medium you so beautifully do.
Your words are perfection. Poetry, really. I was looking in my own soul while I caught a glimpse of yours through your words. Just beautiful. So happy for you that you were able to experience something many will never know. What a gift. xoxo
Beautiful smiles galore! It’s amazing what stepping away from our comforts can do to us. I remember similar sentiments upon returning from a month’s trek through Mongolia. I think it’s the children.. Somehow they reach in and grab your soul; forever transforming it into something more conscious and more alive. Loved each and every shot…
i am blown away at how beautiful the people are. such mesmerizing expressions, eyes, smiles and skin!
Oh Jami…that warms my heart beyond anything I could articulate…so I can’t even imagine being there. I have said for the past couple of years that God has allowed me such a wonderful life and I COULD/SHOULD be doing so much more with it. Thanks for sharing again! ~gretchen
WOW. Jami this was so beautiful…and of course had me in tears. Amazing.