As I enter the third phase of my life, I am feeling called to act. For many years, I have been talking and writing and reading about things that matter to me — social injustice, endangered animals, aging issues to name a few — with like-minded people.

I am blessed with good health, energy and enough life experience to go do something. It’s time to stop yapping.

Some time ago, I developed an intrigue with elephants and rhinos. I began researching African-based programs that would allow me to help these magnificent beasts in some small way.

On my 64th birthday in October, I signed up for a volunteerism program with Enkosini Eco Experience (enkosini.org), a wildlife conservation project in South Africa. I leave Jan. 18, 2020, and will be there for five-weeks

I started my career as a newspaper reporter in Detroit, Michigan, and Fort Worth, Texas. Later, I moved to Ford Motor Company as a PR professional. Through my work, I was exposed to ideas and issues, people and places that fed my yearning to learn. I thrived on challenges and still do.

With my two daughters grown and my work days significantly abbreviated, this is the right time. And so here I go.

I’ll be writing about my experience in this blog throughout my stay in Africa. And if I’m fortunate enough to continue this work, I’ll keep you all posted.