I’m standing on the dark red beach, waiting for the waves to cover my toes, feet, and legs. The water is icy cold on the side of the world, and escaping the heat waves in Europe seems like a blessing.

I love ending up on a beach somewhere in the world, taking off my shoes, and walking along the waters. And it doesn’t matter that the next wave is stronger than I expected and covers my trouser legs.

And this is the feeling I took for granted. I don’t remember the last time I walked on the beach.

And I have no words to express how much I love to travel.

After the 4th Africa Youth in Tourism conference, I’m thinking about the creative/cultural/travel industries deserving so much better than we did to them before the pandemic.

And it’s not just about climate change, etc. Even though I was publically asked if I’m a friend with Great Turnberg – I’m not, and I appreciate her efforts.

It’s about all of us. It’s about the fact that we neglected our human beingness and labeled it “normal.”

It’s about us making the decisions individually and collectively that, in the end, harm ourselves.

What a philosophical bu!Ӥ$$%&it, Iwona, what do you want to tell us?

Just a few statements:

– If we aim to live in a more equal and inclusive world – we treat people and industries equally and inclusively.

– If we aim to achieve collective healing – we heal ourselves first.

– If we aim to thrive – we help others to thrive.

etc.

And if not the pandemic being the wake-up call for us, what else can it be?

So much of my reflection while waking on the winter beaches in Namibia.

What have you been reflecting on recently?