Safari for the Soul

Right from the start I liked Ms. Boal’s positive “spiritual” attitude. Not only did it seem to me that she would be going on an interesting journey or quest, but I felt like I was going to encounter a new way of seeing things as well. As a person who has had the good fortune to travel to Europe and Africa, I could relate to the enthusiasm she showed for learning about and appreciating other cultures and experiences.

Ms. Boal’s travels started in Brazil, where she joined Earthwatch, an organization designed to bring people and scientists together to learn about endangered species and cultural history. She volunteered her time to a project monitoring jaguars. During this time, and in her travels throughout Brazil, she meets some interesting people from diverse backgrounds. This was the same in Greece, where she joined a group monitoring dolphins, and in Africa, where she joined volunteers working to save the Black Rhino. Although all of the expeditions mentioned were interesting, by far the most interesting and memorable episode in this book is the encounter with the lioness. From her accounts throughout the book, it’s clear that all the projects she joined had a lasting impact on her life.

I like the emphasis that was put on learning to follow your own path by listening to an inner voice. We all probably notice coincidences in our lives at one time or another but may not always see this as a “path” or an inner voice suggesting new ways of accepting what life throws our way. I like Ms. Boal’s ability to let go and embrace change in her life. It was inspiring.

Overall, this is a well-told story of an unforgettable adventure that made me want to travel more in the future. Hopefully, it will inspire others to travel or just to listen to their own inner voice and find ways of enjoying and discovering the journey of life.