I Know My Dream Will Take Me There: Africa

I naturally have very strong intuition. There are several instances where I've out-of-the-blue felt deeply that I was supposed to do something or go somewhere. Lately, I haven't been able to shake several feelings. One of them specifically is totally so out of left field that I can't ignore it.

I keep feeling like I'm supposed to go to Africa.

I know what you're thinking. Africa?! I thought the same thing too at first. However, when it just wouldn't go away, I started thinking more and more about it and looked into what it would be like to travel to several countries there. I am so very intrigued by that continent. It is so rich in cultures that we really only know so much about. In my first job out of college, I worked for an international organization whose primary function was to reduce world poverty and grow economic stability. One of the biggest departments I worked with was the African department. People from third world countries such as Sierra Lione, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Cameroon. They were some of the friendliest, happiest people I've ever met.

Not to mention, Africa has beautiful landscapes and animals to take in and observe. I can't even imagine the experiences I'd be able to take away after spending time there.

Cape Town, South Africa

Baobab Trees in Madagascar

[Tanzania]

I get goosebumps thinking about being there in real life. Interacting with the people, the tribes, seeing the animals in their real and true habitat for once. Watching the sunset over the Sahara. Just feeling the spirit of Africa. Like this...

The girl singing is named Ann and she lives in the Flying Kites Home [a residence in Kenya for orphaned and abused children.] I watched this video several times. The first time, I couldn't stop smiling. To see the joy these children have while dancing and singing, knowing their conditions. *0:57 is my favorite part* The second time, I just cried. For the same reason. Seeing their joy and realizing the lives they're living. These children are beautiful little souls.

I spent a good portion of this weekend reading all about the different countries in Africa. The cultures. The animals. The poverty. The hope. I don't know why I'm being pulled toward Africa - whether I'm meant to work with sick cheetahs, spend time with orphaned children, or just experience all that is Africa. I don't know when I'll go. All I know is that I'll go there. I'm going to Africa.

As the children say, "I know my dream will take me there."

Have you been to Africa?