My mind often drifts back to high school, the time when my fascination with geography first took root. It was then that my bookshelf began to fill with hefty Lonely Planet guides, one of which caught my eye with its vibrant cover showcasing the mighty Amazon River, weaving through the heart of South America.

Now, at 25, with my trusty backpack by my side, I’ve crossed half the globe after enduring a marathon flight of nearly 25 hours. Finally, I’ve arrived on the long-dreamed-of shores of South America.

The tropical rainforest climate is nothing short of overwhelming, its humidity so intense it feels as though you’re stepping into a colossal, living humidifier. As I trek through the dense jungle, an immersive symphony of bird calls and animal sounds surrounds me, painting a vivid portrait of life’s raw energy in every direction.

In the grandeur of this immense universe, we are but fleeting mayflies, minuscule grains adrift in an infinite sea. In an instant, the weight of our past dissolves like mist, leaving only awe and humility.

Pursue your dreams with unyielding passion, and bow in reverence to the majesty of nature.



