I just came back from my looooooong-anticipated two-week bucket list trip to Africa, and am having a hard time getting back to “real life.” Michael and I spent a wondrous week glamping in Botswana and Zimbabwe, and then a night in Johannesburg before heading off to Martha Beck’s amazing African STAR Retreat at Londolozi. The whole experience was life-changing!
It’s going to take me a while to be able to really absorb and try to put into words the people, animals and magic of this trip — not to mention editing a couple of thousand pictures.
Until then — I know Africa is on the top of many of your bucket lists, too, and you’re wondering how you’ll ever make it a reality. So let me just share this. I learned, on my trip with Oprah, to dream big. As she said — and Martha reaffirmed — the universe has bigger dreams for you than you can ever imagine. So, whatever you’re dreaming, go for it.
For me, the combination of Africa and Martha Beck was potent. I discovered the oasis that is Londolozi, and felt like I had come home. This magical place and the incredible people who make it what it is inspired me to focus on the things that are most important to me, to hear my own voice and to connect with nature in a way I’ve never experienced before.
My trip may be over but my journey has just begun. I’m not sure exactly what that entails yet but I know you’re all part of it. You are my tribe. In the meantime, keep dreaming big and share your dreams with us so we can all embrace them, send them out into the universe and help you make them come true.
Written by Lois Mark – Londolozi guest
Hey Lois, that is tooooooo short, we want to see the 10000’s of pictures too PLEASE?
Wow I am not sure what I would have done if an ellie had put his trunk on my head – died on the spot – as I am frightened of them 🙁
Thanks for sharing the pics – leopard is a magnificent one
Lois, while I hope to take the same adventure to Londolozi with Martha Beck, I’ve been to Londolozi many times and share with you the same words you written, and I’m still, after 6 years, trying to figure out how to put into words the experience of Africa. When your soul has shifted, maybe the language is of the Universe and there are no words…not sure. I just know I know your experience…thank you so much for sharing! Your leopard photo is extraordinary!
Africa changes you. I’ve visited Kenya. I want to visit again and also go to Tanzania, South Africa and maybe another country in southern Africa.