Here we go again.
Like a vengeful boxer swinging wildly in the ring at his nemesis, this post is hopefully the first of many as I attempt a comeback, a resurgence, a new beginning.
I have come out of writers hibernation, a dormant stage of my life that has been the better part of a year, to begin posting some of my writings, feeling and commentary that I’m sure a small, but admirable group of people will read and take what they will from it.
What brings me back? I guess it’s a yearning to speak my mind, vent the frustrations and provide my perspective on the page/screen so that I can look back and see how far, or how little I’ve come.
Yup, I’m back to being a mentalist.
Ok, in terms of development I never really left (I don’t think you ever really do), but on the international scene I’ve been lacking over the past 12 months, working at arms length with Gainline Africa and the Gulu Elephants to create something incredibly unique.
But you can read about that later on the site if you like.
Let’s focus on me b/c it’s raining, I’m grumpy and well…I’m writing this rambling piece of bunched up words and I get to decide the topic of conversation.
It’s been almost a 2 years since I’ve been back to the dark continent and I miss it more then fat kid loves cake. To me, each time I land on the red, dusty soil of that continent, there is a powerful change that comes with it, an immense change in perspective, and I am alway excited for it to be re-inflicted in me.
In my thoughts,
In my actions,
In my reactions.
The term continent, as often used by all those unfamiliar to the birthplace of man is 50+ countries, cultures and peoples and problems too broad, too colonialist, too impersonal, to be me labeled under one vague, iconic geographical outline.
But it is too often discussed in generalities that would make a hockey fanatics blood boil if the Canadians and Leafs were discussed under one banner. Do you know what I mean? When someone says something unassumingly and you are taken aback almost immediately.
You can’t get mad though.
Those who haven’t felt the warmth and power of the African continents various countries, cultures and people would be have no choice but to generalize.
To me, the continent of Africa is much more then a collection of unique countries.
It’s the people,
The feeling of total freedom, adventure and lack of control.
Not a lack of control that seems reckless, imposing, or threatening, but a lack of control for the known and it’s outcomes.
That’s what “going to Africa” is for me.
It’s about harnessing the moment, feeling the present and creating a future.
This time will be different. Like every time.
Stepping off a plane in Entebbe will not be the same as getting off in Freetown, Addis Ababa, Niamey or Jijiga or any of the other cities I’ve marked.
It will have it’s own smells, tastes, and sounds I can only dream about as I replay the moment over and over on rainy days like today.
Only a few more weeks and my dreams will come true.
And then the work will begin…
dm
