We Move On
Ours was the last Orange River Gorge trip of the season for Gravity. So, the clients AND the guides are heading their separate ways. During the final braai last night, a few speeches were made, all confirming that this was, indeed, a great experience for everyone. The guides said that we were a really cool group and that it was a great way to end the season. The participants said how much we appreciated the guides and the entire, on-river experience.
I suppose everyone has their own reason for coming to the river: The centre was team-building; three brothers wanted to spend valuable time together; parents and children were looking for a unique, shared experience; the guides love the jol. My reason was to experience Southern Africa in a new way before my departure by doing something challenging with great friends. After a year of good, hard work, I wanted more than simply looking at animals or driving from place to place. I got it!
As we were departing, I saw Jess sitting alone on the riverbank: perhaps thinking about the season past and what was coming next. Then, on the drive home, I was listening to the song "My Blue Ocean" on Mango Groove's 2009 album Bang The Drum. It nearly made me cry.
We move on; never knowing what we've lost until it's gone.
And though we count the cost, our memories
Will lift us up and bring us sweet release.
We find our peace.
Things can change or stay the same, that's what they say.
But somewhere in your heart, you'll find that place.
For many of us, "that place" will always be four days on the Orange.
