Being in the water with sharks isn't as frightening as it seems; in fact, it can be quite reassuring. When you hold your ground and meet these fascinating creatures' gaze, a sense of mutual understanding and peaceful coexistence emerges, replacing any defiance. Walter Bernardis, a true daredevil, encourages me to embrace these close encounters—provided I communicate in their language and honor their space—just as we would respect a person’s boundaries in any interaction.
The influence of media and films such as ‘Jaws’ is more profound than one might think—it's like a seed of fear that gets embedded in the back of our minds, continuing to resonate. You may claim that you are not easily influenced, yet consider the irrational fears that linger within us, often overlooked and accepted as normal.
‘When you hold your ground and meet these fascinating creatures' gaze, a sense of mutual understanding and peaceful coexistence emerges, replacing any defiance’
My initial experience with sharks, and hopefully the first of many, lifted a veil of misunderstanding. It's amusing how I was misled for so long until reality confronted me. This encounter taught me the importance of maintaining a curious and open mindset. Without realising it, you might be limiting your world more than you think.. So, venture into the wild, and pay attention to what true teachers of life have to share. Let go of the “noise” and influences that attempt to control us from a young age—eventually robbing you of countless experiences.
‘Venture into the wild, and pay attention to what true teachers of life have to share’
This narrative will contribute to a series I am developing on purposeful conservationists throughout Africa. Their perspectives can impart valuable lessons on self-realisation and inspire us to take collective action.
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With thanks to the entire team of SharkWise Project & African Water Sports ⚡️—who can be considered valuable ‘conservation rebels’ at heart.
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