Embracing the Power of Acknowledgement

Embracing the Power of Acknowledgement: Lessons from My Time in Mauritius

Today, I wanted to share with you a remarkable experience I had during my time in Mauritius. It’s about something so simple yet incredibly powerful: the art of acknowledgment.

Let me take you back to those beautiful mornings on the island, where a walk on the beach was a daily ritual for me and my wife, Gwen. One thing that struck me profoundly was the genuine warmth and friendliness of the Mauritian people. Regardless of their nationality or background, everyone I encountered greeted me with a heartfelt “Bonjour.” It was a gesture that transcended cultures and communicated a sense of unity and happiness that resonated deeply.

Even among different nationalities, the exchange of greetings was a delightful mix of “Good morning” and “Bonjour.” The way people spoke and interacted made it easy to establish a connection and engage in conversation. A simple phrase like “Ça va?” became an invitation to share experiences and connect on a more personal level.

A Simple Act of Acknowledgement

One particular encounter remains etched in my memory with an elderly gentleman, a South African living on the island with his daughter and son-in-law. Every day, we would pass each other, always exchanging a warm greeting. This simple act of acknowledgment showcased the power of human connection, and our daily greetings grew into longer conversations and ended with a deep connection.

It wasn’t just on the beach where this spirit of acknowledgment thrived. Whether it was at the shopping mall or interacting with the teller at a checkout counter, the emphasis on greeting one another was unwavering. Even in the busy hustle and bustle of daily life, no matter the number of people present on the island, acknowledging others seems to be ingrained in the Mauritian way of life.

Upon returning to South Africa, I couldn’t help but notice that something about living in a big city seems to make us colder and more distant towards strangers. Perhaps it’s the absence of the feeling of community when you live amongst such a vast number of people…

Acknowledgement forming Human Connections

I make a conscious effort to acknowledge anyone crossing my path, using simple greetings as a way to remind both myself and others to see each other, embrace empathy, and break free from the noise and stress that can often surround us.

From my perspective, this culture of acknowledgment speaks volumes about the Mauritian people. It reflects their genuine care, compassion, and the importance they place on human connection. It teaches us that a simple “Hello!” can brighten someone’s day and foster a sense of togetherness, even in a world that often seems divided.

CULTIVATING A WARM AND EMPATHETIC ENVIRONMENT

As leaders, it’s important that we cultivate a warm and empathetic environment within our teams and organisations. By acknowledging the presence and worth of each individual, we create a space where collaboration thrives and everyone feels valued.

When I step into the Timeless Africa Safaris offices, I make it a point to personally greet each of the remarkable individuals who work alongside me. I offer warm greetings, share a moment of connection, and perhaps even sprinkle in a touch of humour.

Incorporate acknowledgment daily

I invite you to reflect on how we can incorporate the spirit of acknowledgment into our lives and work. Let’s seek opportunities to greet others genuinely, even in the face of challenges. Together, we can cultivate strong relationships, build bridges, and create a more compassionate world.

Lessons from My Time in Mauritius
A simple act of Acknowledgement
Acknowledgement forms Human Connections
Cultivating a warm Environment

Discover Our other travel stories

Read our travel stories for inspiration and updates.

A Farewell To A Special Human Being

It is with a tinge of nostalgia that we say farewell to Nicky Fitzgerald who has recently stepped down as CEO of Angama Mara and retired from our industry…

Family villas in Africa

As we head towards the end of the year, it is time to think of Festive Family & Friends Getaways. Africa gives you the space you crave, the connection with nature you seek, and the wildlife encounters you’ve dreamed of.

A Day on Safari

We are often asked what a typical day on safari will be like. Your day is filled with many pinch-me-moments and below we give you just a glimpse of what awaits you on ‘another tough day in Africa’.

An African Bush Wedding… I Do

Picture the fairy tale… Following an effortless bush ceremony, guests raise their glasses to toast the bride and groom in a sand river or on an outcrop overlooking spectacular mountain ranges…

Experience Cape Town Like A Local

When visiting an unfamiliar city, it can be overwhelming, there is so much to see and do and whilst you should of course see the iconic tourist sights the city is known for, there is no better way to explore a city than like a local.

Green “hunting”: Rhino Darting Safari At Phinda

Despite being awesomely beautiful, Rhinos are critically endangered and being poached at an alarming rate…

Luxury Safaris In South Africa

Going on a safari is a transformative experience. Spending time on safari teaches you about celebrating life and living it to the full…

Collective Nouns For African Animals

Get to know the collective nouns for these popular African Animals…

The Call of Africa By C. Emily Dibb

When you have acquired a taste for the dust, and the scent of our first rain, You’re hooked for life on Africa…

Did You Know Facts About African Wildlife

Lions have a white line right underneath their eyes which assists them with night vision…

Fynbos Foraging & Cooking Class Experience In Cape Town

Founder of Veld and Sea, Roushanna Gray is a wild food innovator and avid forager. She teaches about indigenous edible foods through immersive experiences…

Great Migrations: Sea Turtle Nesting Sites

For millions of years, sea turtles have instinctually returned to the place where they were born to lay their eggs. Often they travel thousands of kilometres…

Hiking Trails In Cape Town

This easy, out and back route starts in the neighborhood above Hout Bay Manor in Hout Bay. It’s amazing how quickly you feel you’re in nature..

Why You Should Visit Cape Town

No, we’re not just saying that – The UK’s Telegraph thinks so…

Urban Travel In Dar Es Salaam

“Dar”, as it is casually called, is a thriving seaside metropolis and Tanzania’s commercial hub. Developed out of a sleepy fishing village…

South Africa Top 10 Bucket List

We have a unique opportunity to channel our travel ‘time and money’ into our own country…

Astro Safaris in Africa

Have you ever wondered what the night sky looks like in Africa? When you live in a big city with light pollution, it is easy to forget there is a whole universe of galaxies out there.

Southern Africa

East Africa

Central Africa

Indian Ocean Islands

Search

About Us

Contact Us