If you're ever in a place away from home, you might get homesick. I did. But that didn't stop me from taking in all the amazing things around me. South Africa is a place unlike any other, with a beauty that isn't just on the outside. Everything there has a story behind it; the animals, buildings, and especially the people. Being in South Africa opens up your mind to all the beauty in the world.

I’ve seen the sky as it is.

I’ve seen a lion lie like a puppy.

I’ve learned the medical value of elephant dung.

I’ve seen impala at their finest, jumping like their legs are made of coil.

I’ve seen an elephant pose for photos and clear the path for our van.

I’ve seen people being nicer than I’ve thought possible.

I’ve seen hippos at night and day; also the sight of their yawns.

I’ve seen alligators acting perfectly innocent.

I’ve seen rhinos eating like there’s no tomorrow.

I’ve seen giraffes nibbling at the top of trees.

I’ve seen trees as thick as huts.

I’ve seen the elegant leopards and cheetahs.

I’ve seen the za-zoos in all their beautiful glory.

I’ve seen birds of beautiful colors flying.

I’ve seen fish leaping

Crickets chirping

Water rushing

Grass growing

Lizards darting

The sun rising

And setting.

I’ve seen water buffalos and gnus.

I’ve seen zebras napping, grazing and taking care of each other.

I’ve seen baboons wrestling, cleaning and walking.

I’ve seen the moon shine as bright as the sun.

I’ve seen plants of exotic looks and colors.

I’ve seen emerald and turquoise water.

I’ve seen cheetahs and leopards strolling down the road.

I’ve been threatened by an elephant and zebra.

I’ve seen turkey-like birds with their babies crossing the road.

I’ve seen more than I can remember.

But the world is more free than I ever thought possible.

And I’ve walked on rocks showing the layers of time.