Picked last for the soccer team

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It is never a nice feeling to be left out, however when you join a group that has already bonded for a week it is only natural that there is a certain degree of territorial friendship.

To overcompensate for not caring – which in fact I did very much – I aggressively behaved with an air of superiority, confidence and wit. Some may think that getting to know the individuals to be accepted by the group would have been a more successful method; this however never crossed my mind.

It is safe to say that in this process I stepped on a few toes, anyone I found weak I looked down on, confident I raised eyebrows at and everyone else I simply out spoke.

Fortunately I was not the sole addition and I was able to zone in and claim a few of the other newcomers as my friends. Together we formed our own bond and I should not have been surprised when out little team was collectively outcaste. Seats were never offered, meal announcements were never shared and we were un-included from group pictures. Though we all laughed about this I could see we were all equally offended and hurt.

Deciding who should be teamed up with whom for a safari within the Serengeti we found ourselves the stragglers and were happy to be in the same van… with two other newbies. Harsh.

Regardless, only you can make a great vacation and riding along the incredibly bumpy and frustratingly dusty roads all insecurities melted away in the desert heat, excitement increased with each new animal sighting and tales, tall and true were shared throughout the day.

Camping in the wilderness with armed guards circling for protection, one cannot help but feel thrillingly excited. After a warm meal and equally warm beers we all wearily dragged out feet to our dome tents, which after such a long day seemed the equivalent of the Dorchester with added gleaming eyes of Hyenas in the distance. An eerie feeling like no other.

Africa is a wonder for all the senses and those who have been will agree when I say that one of the greatest joys in the impressive continent is simply listening to Africa. The wind releases a soft whisper, and with her cool breeze the Serengeti becomes alive. My hairs raise on end with the close proximity of a deep throated growl, a nervous laugh and movement underfoot from the unknown. As suddenly as the noises start they cease to exist when the wind decides to hold her breath. I enjoy the movement and gaze into the clear night and take part in the absolute stillness.

Each morning we wake as the sky bleeds across then horizon, framing the Acacia trees in a magnificent welcome to the new day. Departing the Serengeti is a sad and tedious journey, though waiting warm showers and clean clothes picks up everyone’s spirits.

Arriving back at base camp and relaxing after an exhausting 3 days our small group venture to the bar to unwind. No surprises when we realise that the evening meal was served and eaten without anyone noticing our absence, deliberate or not.

Barriers are built, and therefore can just as easily be pulled down.

Changing tactics mid venture is a difficult task, and tools need to be chosen carefully. But let’s be honest, everyone is backpacking and is doesn’t take a genius to know that a heavy dose of alcohol will firmly reset attitudes. Taking advantage of a Saturday night I joined in to share stories around drinks and then danced with everyone in the early hours of the morning.

Although I feel I have succeeded and my general friend base includes everyone, albeit on a very basic level, the next time we set up teams, I know the original rejects will always be my first pick.

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