April 23, 2012

Hi Everyone: 

Just a quick note to let you know all is well.  I just concluded my several weeks out in the bush working with the team of scientists in tracking and recording info. on a pride of lions in a game reserve.  The experience was extraordinary--and I learned a great deal about wildlife conservation and management.  Further, I participated in some anti-poaching work and patrols, as the reserve has had over half their lions killed by poachers.  Some of the rhinos on the reserve also faced that sad fate.  I did come up close and personal with several lions.  My heart is still racing from an encounter with Mbhurri, a male lion.  We were just five feet apart when he finally stopped approaching...and we were making eye to eye contact.  He had such raw power in every muscle.  I'm now off to a coastal estuary to learn about coastline eco systems and see some hippos and crocodiles.  I'll also spend three nights camping and hiking a wilderness trail with a small group of adventurers, led by an armed ranger (we'll be out with rhinos, lions, leopards, hippos, elephants, and many other animals).  After that hike, I return to Boston and get ready to return to church.  In just three weeks I'll be back in the office.  Till then, you all are in my heart and prayers.  

Fondly, Tim