When I was a young girl I sponsored a child in Africa. I saved my allowance, put cash in an envelope and sent it off each month. I do not know to which country it was addressed, and I can no longer remember the organization. I only remember seeing the children’s faces on the television and knowing that I wanted to help. At the time, Africa seemed like an entirely different world from my much sheltered and comfortable daily life in the U.S., but I knew I wanted to travel there some day.

May I Share My Thoughts? On our recent Journey with Purpose, I watched guests “breathe” again – they were home again. From the dust-clouded elephants at the watering hole to the patiently waiting zebra, Africa has a way of slowing life down and reconnecting us — with nature, with each other, and with ourselves. These trips are more than adventures; they’re moments to listen, reflect, and find your own rhythm amidst the wild. Sometimes, all it takes is sitting quietly and watching to learn life’s simplest — and most profound — lessons. Nature is a good teacher.

Are Your Eyes Wide Open? is a powerful reflection by Leah Shone and Carla Geyser — a call to truly see the world around us. Through heartfelt storytelling and raw accounts from her conservation journeys over the past few years, Carla challenges us to move beyond passive awareness into purposeful action. Guided by her non-profit, Blue Sky Society Trust, and inspired by the ancient wisdom of the Nharo Bushmen, Carla leads life-changing expeditions across Africa that awaken the soul, shift perspectives, and raise vital funds for wildlife. This is more than travel — it’s transformation. So, ask yourself: Are your eyes wide open?

“When I grow up I’ll go to Africa.” I shouted that as a little girl of about 8 years old. But my life turned out differently and it wasn’t until I was 35 that I first came into contact with the continent of Africa.

Experience Mama Africa’s beauty with Blue Sky Society Trust. Reflecting on nature’s healing power, we prioritize wholeness amidst global changes. Through giving back and joining expeditions, let’s reconnect with ourselves, protect the planet, and make waves of positive change. Join us in embracing adventure and making a difference. Time to have some fun.