Each piece of writing we consume as readers is, in some form or another, an expression of a writer's voice, a glimpse into his psyche, mindset, and ideals. Through the lens of his words he grants us permission to view the world briefly through his eyes. The pieces contained within these pages are a truer representation of the author than you will find in most books. A compilation of thirty years of work, recorded by hand in a writing journal, Santiago's reflections are presented here raw and unedited, flowing in an intimate stream of consciousness from his heart to the page. These entries are a chronological accumulation of mostly independent unities throughout the course of one life--personal observations, insights, commentary, reflections, and brief narratives. They voice our common struggle to find meaning and value in the great mystery that is life and the universe as we exist within it, both of which are full of wonder and violence and beauty on a scale that is hard to fathom.

All proceeds from the sale of this book will be donated by the author to the following charitable organizations: Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (founded in 1977 by David Sheldrick) Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund (initiated as Karisoke in 1969) Rainforest Trust (officially incorporated on Dec. 8, 1988)