A Zip Lining Adventure

Last week Bailey and I visited another  nature reserve about an hour from Manzini.  This reserve is unique because they provide a tree top canopy tour!  For about two hours Bailey and I zip lined from one platform to the next, enjoying the incredible scenery as we went.  Bailey was a little nervous of the heights but she did great.  This was a really incredible experience.  The beauty of the Swaziland Mountains still awes me and it was fun to see a little bit more wildlife.  In fact, we saw three baboons and some sort of antelope. 

I had been hoping to do the zip line tour ever since we heard about it a few weeks ago.  Although there was a lot of excitement about the possible adventure, the decision was still difficult as to whether or not to go.  It was a little expensive to participate, and besides my own need for saving money, I also feel very guilty about spending so much money when I daily interact with people who live off of $2 a day.  In the end I am glad that we chose to go on the tour.  There are several reasons why I say this.  First of all I may never be back in Swaziland ever again and I need to take advantage the opportunities that I have while I am here.  Second, I see a lot of value in loving and enjoying a place. Specifically when it is this beautiful!  Finally, I am reminded of all of the discussions about self care in my social work classes.  I know myself, and I know that I am energized when I am able to retreat to places of wilderness.  I needed this day to stay healthy mentally and to fall more in love with this place.

I am realizing that, just like in all other things, balance is needed.  I by no means want to flaunt my wealth, spending money frivolously.  I also want to use my money to benefit others.  I do not want to be a tourist in this place.  I want to be committed to the people here.  It has been my goal for many years to live as simply as possible so that I can use my money and resources to help others.  So how do I find that balance?  I feel that I will be asking myself this question for the rest of my life.  For now I hope that I will be able to be mindful of the poverty that surrounds me while still enjoying this beautiful place. 

I know a lot of you have been struggling with this same thing.  Please share any thoughts, suggestions, or conclusions that you have reached.