Oh how this year did not go as I (we) had planned! I had hoped for many amazing and life changing wildlife expeditions. And of course, I was looking forward to going back to Africa and being in the presence of the mighty big cats, the elegant giraffes and the colossal elephants. I was equally excited to once more learn about the amazing african people.
But as we all know this did not happen.
Of course, I am disappointed. But the reality is that I am one of the lucky ones. My family and I are healthy. I still have a job, and I am secure financially.
The real victims of this pandemic are people who caught the virus, many of whom passed away or are stuck with long lasting impacts. And everyone else that became the collateral damage of this crisis. There are many. Industries were wiped out. Like the tourism industry. And many countries like Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, Botswana and others who need the tourism industry to survive are struggling.
So my disappointment means nothing compared to all of this.
And I still got to capture some sweet wildlife moments. Like those colourful hummingbirds photographed last January in Guadeloupe (my last trip!). Or those herons, ducks, hummingbirds and partridge around my house. Or the spectacular whales in the St-Lawrence river and the cutest black bear cub in the Saguenay region.
For 2021 I do hope to be able to go back to Africa and other amazing wildlife destinations and help contribute to relaunch the tourism industry here and in Africa.
Wishing all of you and your family health, happiness, and prosperity in the new year. And why not, some nature and wilderness! ASAP!