"Its election season, you shouldn't travel within Ethiopia.", was the warnings I got from those that knew covid19 lockdown might have hindered my travels, locally & internationally for the last year. But I needed my travel fix out of the highlands of Addis, so Afar it was.
When traveling within Ethiopia one has to be ready for any unforseen circumstances, such as flat tire in the middle of nowhere, Heartburn after eating unknown injera look alike, young kids blocking your vacation spot, and random service oriented weird negotiation, hence its called an adventure. I enjoy the twists and turns of traveling, just like life, you never know the unexpected curve that is thrown infront of you. So be alert, centered, yet flexible and enjoy the ride. Remember leave only your footprints behind, Africa is the land of untamed wildlife, so hold on to your consciousness not your pride.
Life has changed for a lot of us that are used to socializing, go to work to spend every week face to face with human interactions, as well as being in the company of eachother to relieve stress & have complaining session. Yet now being cooped up in homes, eating on desks, and spending too much time on smart phones, and not living life as freely as our ancestors, has impacted our wellbeing, and way of life.
This long weekend of discovery Awash National park, meeting fellow travelers from atleast 7countries, discussing thought provoking ideas, sharing meals and hugs, as well as providing input to the local tourism industry that has been hurt is refreshing. I realised we as humans are social creatures that need love, to be heard and seen, and that we are not meant to be mentally and physically caged.
So deciding to plan a camping trip in the park with fellow campers, being open to the healing powers of the magical hot springs, as well as spending time with local and international explorers was something that no election based fear of instability can diminish. Yes caution of the unforseen is vital, but don't let the mind hijack your intuition as a remarkable being that can think independently, heal itself naturally, and that we have a choice to be more forgiving, grateful, compassionate and loving in living our life as conscious citizens..
Having experienced a few days being immersed, cleansed and purified by the healing powers of the natural hot springs, I pray Ethiopia and the world heals, and we can all move forward as evolved beings choosing love, compassion and vigilance.
Happy travels...
By Dutches@deldeyoch
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