This week started off with me feeling frustrated with college. I yearned for a whole day of animal lessons, not a day interspersed with business plans and politics. I am appreciative that they teach us this, however, I just wanted to immerse myself more into the animal world and Monday is a day that our timetable only permits this indulgence in the morning for 3 hours only.
However, all this changed upon arriving into the usual Biology class on Wednesday morning. A few weeks ago, a very welsh, slightly over 50 man came in to give us a presentation about the Amazon and Conservation. We expected the usual fare; a speech full of un- imaginable facts and figures that would instantly leave our heads as soon as we stepped out if the classroom. However, as soon as this guy started speaking we were captivated (and not only by his strong, lilting welsh accent). He was so passionate about his subject as he spoke animatedly, every now and then telling a few anecdotes. He told us a touching story about the death of a young tribal girl and showed us a video that details in stark reality the damage that Dove is doing to the Amazon Rainforest. (The video can be found here) Then he announced he was taking a group of Year 2's to the Amazon to meet "his tribe" and "brothers and sisters". Green with envy does not even begin to describe our chagrin! However, upon arrival this Wednesday, our tutor announced there were free spaces.
After umming and ahhing about finances, I made my decision. Waking up every morning I knew that I had to do it, this is a trip that doesn't come around very often. I read the itinerary which cemented my decision; standing on the equator, travelling up the Andes through the Cloud Rainforest region, travelling by plane then canoe up the Amazon spotting wildlife and eventually ending up at the indigenous tribe to spend a few nights and take part in a shaman healing ceremony, going to a local school to help make local crafts...... I could not miss this.
The man's name is Phil Williams. He is a truly inspirational man who travels the UK to spread the word about Conservation. If you are lucky enough to hear him speak, the world would be in a much better place.
About Me
- JessB
- I come from a Welsh seaside town where I grew up fascinated by every living thing around me. This blog was created in order to share experiences with wildlife be it with photos, videos or just in good ol' plain english. I encourage everyone to take an active part and learn from each other.
