The “new normal”, seems a rather fluid concept at this stage. I expect, it will be blamed, manipulated and used, to justify and legitimize,
many changes, and reformative agendas, going forward. For now though, the most tangible evidence, of lockdown fading memory, other than some lingering lockdown fab, is Aunty Debbie’s insistence that we all, “please sign the register. I don’t want a R11 000 fine pp.

One change, x is inescapable though – “the world, has gone global, but smaller!”. We now have instant access to people and boardrooms across the globe, without ever having to leave the house. People in the past, have wanted to “work from home”. The new normal has gone further, we can now work “from, with, on and in” our home’s. It is now possible, to do your monthly shopping on line, from the kitchen. Then, work up a sweat, and loose some Kj’s on your treadmill. A quick dip in the pool, just to refresh. On the way back to the house, a quick re-calibration, of the “pap and milk machine” as to which are weeds, and which are flowers. Then, on, with collar and tie, to assume a presentable image, for your boardroom Zoom meeting (all the while still sitting in a wet speedo).

But, how does that cater for, our deeply ingrained, age old vocation, of “Hunter/gatherers”? All good and well for the “gatherers”, they have the predictability of routine, the certitude of habit and habitat. But what of the hunters?

As with birds, hunters come in 2 models; the caged, tame, domesticated ones; and the free! – unfettered and unrestricted. Those who know no borders, appreciate the great outdoors, and have no regard for the constraints of time or distance.

Clearly the members of this “hunting party”, are of hybrid of both. Like a caged hawk, that has finally broken free from the falconer. Wanting to make up for lost time, to liberate the restraints of repressive control. Imagine such a majestic bird, such a supreme hunter, reduced to scratching and pecking at seeds on the ground. If you can, then you have some idea , what it is to watch these “mighty warriors” grope at this fleeting freedom. But!, with the punctuality of a gang of gaggaling gatherers.

Lexy had pre-planned, a day of rest and leisure. Leaving, the female function in the group, vacant. A number of suitably qualified applicants, seemed all too willing to fill the gap, evidenced by;
-the lethargic, non-committal approach, to the agreed upon departure time.
-one member, tried the typical “i left my lights on” excuse and had too be jump started.
-another, having failed to, do his pre-ride maintenance check, further delayed the group, when he “discovered” a flat tyre, at the gate of the lodge.
-a joint application of 2 members, fondly discussing “spooning” and snoring. It seems “sharing is still caring”.
-one of our most capable members, having completed, multiple extreme, adventure rides. Trans South America and Cape to Cairo to name but 2. Dawdled at the back claiming, “sorry, I’m not very good on tar.”
-But, of all the potential applicants, the most compelling application was, by far, a certain member, limping around, feigning injury, trying to justify “sitting this one out”. To which Rassie, offered him some Stopain, and responded, “ here take some cement, and harden the f-up!” Undaunted, he lodged another application, “my tyre, seems to be loosing air.” To which JP responded with both, the diagnosis, and the “solution” to the problem.

But by “midday”, we were well on our way. Each rider, riding to his own rhythm, at his own pace, in search of his own sweet spot.
Not, in pursuit of some enlightened state, nor in search of, the deeper things in life, such as meaning, purpose, and contribution. But rather, flirting with, the fickleness of fleeting elation, the climax of joy unleashed, and the childlike simplicity, of unrestrained exhilaration. Most at some stage, whether planned or inadvertently, discovered the “challenge of the edge.” Keith, true to his nature, and reputation; went over it. Introducing his brand new Triumph 800, to the stark, unforgiving reality, of adventure riding.

Some twists and turns through a local village, with cheering spectators, and piles of discarded waste, and we were on the Kruger fence. It did not disappoint!
Barely 2km in, we were welcomed by a heard of Elephant. There is a serene and settled majesty to these great beasts. Their welcome, so gracious and surreal, it seems to enter the soul. It delights and elevates all those who encounter it. Most of humanity, can’t resist, their unshakable charm and allure, they seem to recharge us, to reconnect us with “hunters past”.

The fence!; a stark reminder of their plight and ours!Watching them, so cool and calm in the midday sun. Fills me with, tranquility and peace, noble inclinations; and most importantly with a deep appreciation and a sense of profound gratitude!