After the sun’s return to the horizon last night, Mr. T, my group’s fabulously knowledgeable tour guide, shared a story centered around a sick lion. I’m going to do my best to recount this fable:
A lion (I’m going to name him “Patrick”) pretended to be sick to trick others into handing him a glass of water, in order to get them close enough to eat for dinner. First comes along a little rabbit, which Patrick stops. Patrick asks it, “hey little rabbit, I’m very sick. Would you mind getting me a glass of water?” The kind rabbit replies, “of course lion. I would be more than happy to.” So the rabbit retrieves and returns the water, and Patrick in turn swallows the rabbit whole. Then comes a big kudu trotting along. Patrick asks it, “hey kudu over there, would you mind getting me a glass of water? I’m sick and thirsty.” The kudu expresses, “oh, I’m sorry you’re sick. It would be rude of me not to help you out.” So the kudu carries the glass of water to Patrick. Patrick, once again successful, feasts on the kudu. Lastly, a jackal comes across Patrick. Patrick asks it, “hey jackal, my friend, would you do a sick lion a favor? Could you bring a glass of water to me?” The jackal replies, “I would, but first you must answer my question. I see the tracks of a rabbit and a kudu that have come here, but no tracks leave. If you can tell me what happened to that rabbit and kudu, I’ll get you your water. So what happened to them?” Patrick swiftly attempts an answer, “Oh, they went to fetch water for me but I’m not sure where they’ve gone. They must have left me.” But the persistent jackal presses further, “There are no tracks leaving this spot from those animals, so tell me what has happened to them.” Patrick has no response. The jackal, understanding what horrors Patrick has done, begins to wail, signaling to everyone that the lion is danger.
Mr. T revealed that the moral of this story is to learn from other people’s mistakes. To learn and make smarter decisions. As we explore Zambia on this trip, visiting colonized landmarks or local villages, I hope we take on this message to learn from our ancestors, previous trip members, and from each other, like the jackal. This simple lesson, illustrated cleverly through animals, made me consider what other ideas animals throughout our own safari could shed light on…
Now to the events of our past two days:
After another bumpy bus ride with inventive seating, we began the first of our two days in Chobe national park on a three hour boat tour. Some personal highlights from this first segment include one hippo’s complete jaw extension, the beautiful patterns of a crocodile’s scales, my contemplations of invading animal life through safaris with Cade, Morgan shouting “big chungus” at a hippo, and Jeff usurping one of Sean’s shoes. I saw Lauren’s message of learning to say no when watching a crocodile snap toward our boat for approaching too closely, and I saw Mary Pearl’s message as the hippopotamuses (hippopotami?) let the water flow over them. We also saw a white bird plucking bugs from an elephant’s skin, which Gee explained is an example of a symbiotic relationship. Both creatures in this instance benefit from the encounter. The elephant gets some free skin cleaning and the bird has a little snack. I witness my fellow zags portray this symbiotic relationship each day, sharing sunscreen, pepto, and smiles, and I’m sure that will only continue into our adventures in Zambezi.
Next came our land safari. We were split up between three cars, eventually settling in two separate camps. Our corresponding tour guides taught us about the indigenous plants, various animal habits, and led us to incredible sights. Our groups drove around tons of impalas, “suicide chickens” (guinea fowl), elephants with “fifth legs” (google at your own risk!), giraffes doing the splits while sipping water, a lion crunching noisily on a dead impala carcass, birds chasing after dragonflies, and a quite striking sunset filled with pinks and blues and purples and oranges. One especially poignant image was a group of impalas, elephants, and giraffes all in a “community” together, as our guides explained. The giraffes could see far and wide, able to alert for any enemies, the elephants could sense movement through the ground and provide tough muscle, while the impalas could monitor close to the ground. They each used their natural gifts and specialized skillsets to help the others, similar to the symbiotic relationship, as we also adapt to each others’ strengths. Some of us are able to stay calm under pressure, like Jeff always knitting no matter the danger and bumpiness of the road, and some of us can bring never-ending laughter like Liv.
After our incredible sunset, we gathered under the starry night sky within our respective camps. Mr. T pointed out that the big star in the sky is actually the moon. “Jay Bless,” one of the cooks, proudly shared his music and love of answering questions saying “No, ask me” when inquired whether someone else should answer some questions. Some of us even heard lions outside our tents at night, but unfortunately, no, Sean’s snoring was in fact not a lion. Mr. T identified a pale-spotted owlet, solely from its quiet call, stating how it uses its night-vision, similar to lions, to hunt down its prey while they are disadvantaged.
We woke up bright and early at 5:30, starting the day off right with more delicious Kalahari food, then spent most of the rest of the day continuing to explore the gorgeous landscape. We learned how to be patient, like the nimble jackal, circling a group of impalas and waiting for the opportune moment to snatch its prey, in addition to the “loser” impalas, rejected from the others, teaching us to find sanctuary and connect among friends who have gone through the same experiences. Following a kind gift of sandwiches and apples from the Kalahari tour group and reuniting with our separated groups, we returned back to Zambia. Over a barbecue around the fire, the 21 of us recounted our highlights, concerns, and what safari animals we believe fit each individual best.
Although some excellent lessons can be acquired through observing these animals in their relatively natural habitats, perhaps I ought to also acknowledge that not every trait ought to be followed: guinea fowls jumping directly in front of cars, male impalas tiring out female impalas, snakes cannibalizing each other, etc. Nonetheless, I find it fascinating, like Mr. T, that so much can be learned by simply observing. He’s been a safari guide for over 20 years and says he could never get tired of these wonderful creatures. We can be a clever jackal, outsmarting any “sick” lion trying to take advantage of us… Or at least if we get eaten, we can help others along the way.
Noah Barron
ZamFam ’26
To family & friends:
Although you guys know I enjoy my personal space and all, just know there’s not a day that goes by without thinking of you. I miss settling down and watching tv with you each night, mom and dad. (No spoilers on the Survivor finale!) I miss competing with you in connections, Cathleen. (Happy early birthday mom and Michael, too!) I miss having the opportunity to call and chat with you all at any time. I miss being able to do improv with GUTS twice a week. I miss our cog dinners. And I miss everyone’s smiles! But I’m very happy to be where I am and with the people I am with. See ya’ll soon!
HI MEGGY! I miss you! all the trees at the lake fell like the huge oak trees fell down 🙁 but that’s okay cus it didn’t hit the boat or the house! woot woot! get in more pictures i wanna see your face. i dont have anything interesting to share but right now im headed to sam’s last senior night 🙁
Noah,
I loved your words! I feel like I just walked through the pages of Kiplings “The Elephant’s Child.” Of all the zoo animals in real life you described I most want to see a suicide chicken but I think I already saw one with a boring name.
I was glad to see the back of Emu’s head looming at that Dandy Elephant. I have never seen one out elephanting about in the grass like that, lucky!
I love how each author weaves their personal experience in with their new amazing novel reality over there. It’s like a braid of American College life, some ancient natural place, and some third thing which might be me reading it!!
Anyway I’m drinking up all your words and experience every day it arrives. Please keep traveling forever and send updates daily.
Thank you
Mark Mark
Mr. T sounds like an amazing tour guide, and I’m glad he taught you more than just animal fun facts! I will be thinking about that fable for a while, and especially what you mentioned about learning from our ancestors and each other.
I’m so so glad you got to see allllll the animals! Your conversation with Cade surrounding the ethics of safaris invading natural life was sure to have been an interesting one (I can’t wait to hear more when you are back! That wasn’t something that crossed my mind, but an important one to consider).
The stars in Zambia are like no other, admire and cherish them because I have found nothing quite like it. The southern Cross constellation is my personal favorite (have Jeff point it out!).
MP, your time on Crossplay expired, which somehow means I won our game?!! Still trying to understand because I’m not sure how I won considering you have 47 points over me. I can’t wait to start a new one in late June!
I thought this blog couldn’t get better than reading it together as a group, but somehow being on this end is so much more special!!! Who’s the crier? Haha
Love and miss you all!
Weenie
3:03pm in California, 12:03am in Zambia
Whats up Samantha. Currently driving with your mom to watch Megan and such at state. Some unfortunate news about Alcaraz, he also won’t be playing at Wimbledon, brutal. I also keep forgetting to feed the pets on the widgetables things and they all ran away but luckily it wasn’t permanent and I got them back safely, but I now have zero coins and no motivation to play the stupid games. We miss you very much.
ISA! I miss you bunches! Hope that everyone is having the most fun and it sounds like you are! My rose today is that the weather is perfect! not too windy or hot or cold. My bud is that I will start my internship on Monday and I think we have officially moved into nice weather for the rest of the summer; so I look forward to the pool days to come. My thorn is that since spring seems to have been pushed everything is blooming right now, sending my allergies into a spiral! Anyways, I hope that you have found lots of laughter and made a lot of memories. Can’t wait to see you when you’re home.
Lorianne Servignat
3:30 my time IDK what time yours
Noah, thank you for sharing Mr. T’s fable! It will be so important to continue leaning on your ZamFam as you arrive in Zambezi. I remember last year at the beginning of the safari someone asked Jeff what his favorite safari animal is. (No surprise he was knitting since he’s been on like a million of them and claims to be bored of elephants) His response was a bird called a lilac breasted roller, which of course we all made fun of him for. But then we saw the bird, and it was one of the most beautiful animals I have ever seen. One of my favorite parts about Zambia is how often your assumptions will be proven wrong and how much beauty there is when you observe with an open mind. Jeff, if you are smirking right now, please stop.
MP – I hope by now you have seen a chicken at the market. I am picturing the eye roll you will give me and what you will say as you tell me that my description of them was a little dramatic. Yes, I did get my Chick-fil-A and also made a stop at Trader Joe’s for some Beecher’s. Portland says hi! Love you so much!
Taylor – kudu kudu kudu kudu kudu. Loser impala loser impala!
With love,
Caroline
ZamFam ‘25
Forgot to mention: MP, I used your phone number at REI today. I now have it memorized and confidently say “yup” when they ask if my name is Mary. I also emailed you the receipt in case you’re curious about what I bought.
Caroline, this made me smile so big. I hope your haul is absolutely fire.
So good to hear that the ZagFam is enjoying Southern Africa in all of its forms (land, sea, stories, and soon air!). Look for the wild cat–not a lion, but wild cats! It so funny seeing kitties next to giraffes and lions.
Samantha, we’re excited to see your pictures and for your kitsch to join the family’s African collection. It’ll never surpass “The Ugly”, but I’m sure we’ll love it just the same and mom won’t hide it away somewhere. Make sure to put those lawyerly skills to the test when you are bargaining. Love to all!
Wow, the safari sounds great! I love the story you guys were told. I hope you saw lots of amazing animals!
Sam, I miss you! I sat on your bed today! Just joshing I would never. I hope to see your silleh self featured in some pics soon! P.S, I basically crushed Anders in tennis the other day! (it was 4-6, 2-6)
Lurkey Lily, I miss you!! I saw a reel of chippy dippy dopey dub today and it made me think of you 🙁 I hope the safari was all you dreamed of and more!!
i am so jealous it looks incredible. I second the request for more meg features.
Nothing too exciting from me today another day of work and cleaning up some days, and I just hit Knollwood gym with Jack erdman.
We miss you and you’re awesome!
The Safari sounds wonderful. Thanks for writing with such detail Noah! Glad no one fell overboard. Pickle. I miss you so very much and am so thrilled to read the blog daily to get a glimpse into what you are seeing and doing. Dobby is watching me type. He prob misses you, or is hungry. GSDILY
Well, I wrote a thoughtful comment but my firewall kicked it out. Will try again.
Glad to hear all the wonderful people you are meeting. After the Lion story, not sure I’d have saved the mouse. Missing our Sarah but grateful for the smiles. Looks like the ZagZamFam are enjoying each others’ company.
One amazing experience after another! So grateful for all the details. I own being a bit jealous. But mostly I am tremendously grateful Meg get to have this expertise with such a dynamic and supportive group of people.
We miss You Meggers. Big hugs!
Such a good reflection Noah, and what an important fable to keep in mind. I bet seeing the stars was magical! I’m excited to hear more about your adventures, and am so happy you all seem to be enjoying your time!
Claire Sladovnik
OH! also Graley I thought of you today! I did my final escape room with my friend Lauren and then Allison also joined us. The room was about eliminating a virus and I had to sort names of enzymes to match a code and analyze really important stuff that I know for sure you would know how to read instantly. All I could think was “wow this would go so much faster if my nursing friends were here right now.” Anyway, we escaped with FOUR SECONDS left. I was literally jumping and so hype- you would have helped us big time.
The safari seems amazing, and the fable your tour guide told you all is so wise!
Isa, question of the day is “What movie do you rave about?” This will definitely not come as a surprise to you, but mine is The Notebook, no further explanation needed. AND exciting news, it comes back to Prime on June 1st, so you know what I’ll be doing next week! I hope you’re enjoying the questions and that everything is going well so far!
Also, Isa, just wanted to check on your stomach…has anyone had to be warned not to enter the bathroom yet? 🙂 Love and miss you lots!
I second and third everything that has been said about the writing and getting a peak into being there, and also a bit envious of the variety of experiences you all have already had.
Em- I can’t help but think about 5 and 6 yr old Emu and the 100’s of hours of nature shows that were running non-stop while I cooked dinner etc. Can’t wait to hear what 20 yr old you thinks about getting to actually experience being around elephants in person. Big hug + a face wash from the doggies!
Noah! I learned so much from this..whoa! So awesome. And I too..promise not to peep any spoilers on this season of Survivor! Liv can tell you our family gets into it We even pick teams. But ok..back to the safari! Observing all of this sounds incredible, and what an amazing guide. Also thank you so much to anyone in on the mouse rescue. Big hearts!
Thanks for the great stories and big glimpses of this amazing adventure Noah!
Liv-We lovvvvveeee youuuuuu. Odie Bear sends an Odie hug and it’s awesome to hear about all the growing. fun and…. funny moments!!!! XOXO
Sam! Incase the word didn’t spread yesterday, Robert Irwin is in the PNW. Can’t wait to see the pictures, the safari looks epic!
The adventure continues. So many wonderful lessons! Nature is such a great teacher. Olivia’s laughter and sense of humor is very missed here. So glad she is sharing it in Zambia!
Wow! Every post impresses me with your introspective thoughts. Great writing, everyone.
The safari sounds amazing. I can’t wait to see all the pictures.
Isa, I’m going on a walk with Erika tomorrow. It will be fun to catch up with her. Love and miss you.
What a fabulous daytime and overnight experience! Hope you all had good sleeps last night and enjoy today anew! I love how you are all reflecting richly and I appreciate these blogs so much! You are all generous for sharing with us back home.
Hi Noah! Thank you much for the safari details! I was so looking forward to this post and you did not disappoint! Loved the fable, the details about the animals, and just the glimpse into what you all are experiencing!
Taylor- We are hanging out at Priest for the long weekend. You aren’t the only one seeing wildlife. When I went to use the bathroom in the cabin, there was a mouse in the toilet! New fear unlocked. Anyway, I trust that your phone is functional this time around and you are taking lots of pictures so we can see the details when you get home. Love you and miss you so much❤️
Hola Sam Meg and MP!! STILL missing you guys tons and I wait for the Zambia post drop everyday. Can’t wait until I hear more of your stories. Hopefully my comments make you feel more at home, but also I hope You are just having tons of fun and barely thinking about Spokane. LOVE YOU!!!
Noah, wonderful post. You satiated our desire for details. Love the descriptions of all the sights and sounds. I’ve never witnessed African animals in their habitat. It must have been incredible.
ZamFam26 – I hope the adventures and experiences that each new day continues to bring will leave you all with enough new learnings, expanded perspective and insights that you will each have a fable ti write.
Update from home for Kathryn, Charlie has Senioritis bad. He and friends broke into the pool on campus earlier this week to go for a final swim. Yes, they got caught. Charlie fessed up. His friends hoisted him over the gate and he let everyone in. Charlie reports that he has more jugs than he can count. We are hoping he makes to Saturday and is allowed to walk the stage. The baccalaureate mass last night and that the only event to report is that your brother ‘hit big’ during the homily, winning on a bet he had placed. God had to be frowning. We are counting the minutes to see him walk the stage and get his diploma.
Thank you for sharing what the group did and giving us such a thoughtful post. Sounds like a once in a lifetime opportunity. Looking forward to reading about what you did today.
Noah – wonderful, descriptive and insightful post. Your use of the phrase – “inventive seating” made me chuckle. Sounds like a special trip with a special group of people. Thank you for sharing the experience with us through the blog.
Thank you for the post Noah! I have been thinking about you all so much and can’t wait to see the incredible pictures and hear the stories from the safari. This is an experience you will never forget! (and on my bucket list too!)
Hayden – your text this morning sounded like you might have changed your mind about bungee jumping today. Did you?!? My heart skipped a beat and I’m praying!! Love you! 🙂