Kim

In the Mist of it All-Uganda

Follow the path of hills covered with misty air, soggy mud and slippery steps, for this is the Bwindi jungle. Once deep inside the canopy of trees comes falling leaves and sounds of crackling branches. Stretch the neck above to find bundles of black fur swinging from vines and long arms reaching for nourishment from berries and figs. Just a few steps further lay the family of 14; Two silver backs, 1 black back, and several mothers and their babes. Seemingly undisturbed by the visitors, the group of gorillas were observed in their home for the day. The silverbacks showed their dominance by remaining calm but completely aware and guarded. Mother's embraced their young and tried to rest however their efforts were futile as their babes were most curious. The juveniles proved their skills by swinging from vines, pounding their chests, and tumbling and wrestling with their siblings. Eventually these seemingly gentle giants moved on to a new place of rest.
The end of the journey was spent following the rolling land through crops of coffee beans and tea leaves. Children followed the trespassers with gifts and drawings to sell. They showered us with the few English phrases they knew: "Hello, how are you?". Hard to resist the smiles and sweet voices. These small children appeared with underdeveloped muscles and enlarged tummies that distinctly told the tale of malnutrition. Food is plentiful but lacking in all the necessary nutrition. Pests like worms eat away at their bellies and the children are left unable to grow properly. Despite this all, the children were covered with smiles and pride. Their tenderness left unscathed by the harshness of the environment. More children gathered to perform traditional African song and dance. Melody, rhythm and energy filled the air. For whatever may be lacking in this world, these people made up for it with their happiness and kindness. Their ability to share it was beyond expectation.
For the first time I realized that these moments of gratitude and amazement are slowly crushing and replacing the painful memories that once occupied my mind.
Thank you Uganda!
Cheers friends!!