“Protection”

TANZANIA Through Harold’s Lens:

Thorns from the Serengeti acacia thorn tree. 3″ long. Strong. Do not bend.

To protect their animals from lions, the Maasai cut limbs from these trees and carefully weave a long 6′ high fence circling the “inside” of their villages.

Inside the thorn fence, their animals. At night.

Outside the thorn fence, the Maasai. In mud, grass-thatched huts.

On one of my journey’s into a Maasai village with my camera I spotted something I wanted to shoot. It was very close to me. I backed up a few feet. Right into the Maasai 6′ high thorn fence. The sharp thorns entered the backs of my legs. Fifty long needles pierced my legs. I was off balance. I was falling over backwards.

A Maasai warrior grabbed my arm and jerked me upright. I thanked him and wiped off my sweat. Then took a look at the backs of my legs.

Blood dripping everywhere.

Thanks to the Guides and their medical box and skills.