Story Behind the Photo: Mosi-Oa-Tunya I

By: Robin D. Collin

This image is part of the collection titled, “International”. This picture was taken during my hike/walk through Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park in Livingstone, Zambia. Mosi-Oa-Tunya is Lozi for “The Smoke Which Thunders” or what most people know as Victoria Falls, the largest waterfall in the world. This view is overlooking stunningly diverse plant life and the Zambezi River to the Victoria Falls Bridge that connects Zambia to Zimbabwe. This day marked the first part of a life changing medical mission trip I took with my beloved pediatric attending, Dr. Tom Irons, and other residents and med students. I talk about this trip A LOT because it was one of the few times I felt really at ease practicing medicine and felt fully welcomed and respected for my knowledge and mere presence. I was trusted to do some really amazing things which I’m so thankful to have been a part of til this day.

This photo reminds me of the swell of love and awe I had for this phenomenal view and park. I had never seen or been immersed in such luscious nature before. I can still remember the smells and sounds; pure bliss in sensory overload lol. It was magical. It was also a fitting start to a profound experience for me. I look at this photo and always think “I am abundant”.