Alan Valkenburg

THE KINDEST CUT

Being sent to the Pilanesberg to witness rhino dehorning triggered a lot for Alan. As he watched folks having photos taken with the drugged and prone rhinos he struggled to make peace with the casual toying around with one of the Big 5. These gentle giants reduced to a prop made him torn,ʼ tʻo uncomfortable. Eventually, though, on day two, Alan succumbed. I was

Alan reported. ʻI wanted to show respect, but I also wanted hug one, to put my arm around that magnificent creature and just pass on a few words. To whisper, “Hey man, Iʼm sorry about all of

this” . ʼI know it sucks but I hope you know weʼre doing it to try to keep you safe!