See Ya Later Alligator
Floating on the River with a Scaly Friend
My family and I are very outdoorsy. We live in a rural part of Georgia, in the deep south of the US. We raise chickens, we develop our land ourselves, we grow some of our own food, but most importantly we camp, fish and go on long boat rides on our favorite waterway, the mighty Flint River.
My phone camera files are filled to the brim with the murky waters of the river. I take pictures of sunsets and sunrises on our camping trips, the waves crashing behind the boat as we speed across the water, my kids playing on the riverbanks, and of course the most important inhabitants, the creatures residing in the most beautiful (in my opinion) of all places.
Not a lot of people see the creatures we see, the danger noodles (snakes slithering their way through the brown water), herons stretching their wings to the sky, turtles sunbathing on washed up logs and the occasional wild duck making it's home on the banks.
Of all those creatures though, the most interesting, to me, is the alligator. We have seen some big ones on that river. Some that, as we quietly pass, look to be as long and big as our fourteen foot boat. Some who have probably lived in that river longer than I have been alive, maybe even longer than my parents have been alive.
Lying on the banks soaking in the sun through their thick scales, looking every bit the dark, dangerous creature that they are, reminding us of why we should always be aware of our surroundings on this mighty river.
The fellow in my pictures on this story is not a big guy. He was a young one of only about four feet. We saw him as he is in the picture just above, in a comfy spot on a small sandbar. We cut the engine to the boat when we saw him and let the river take us slowly past.
Most of the time they ignore us. We float past snapping pictures and oohing and ahhing at the beauty before us. But this time was different. He spotted us as we spotted him and backed himself into the river water slowly. My husband couldn't resist a closer look so he started the engine and we slowly crept towards where the gator had disappeared under the water.
We were in for a surprise!
Up popped a scaly head, arms spread wide to help him float. The curious guy wanted to see us as well! We cut the engine again and the current in the slew kept us close to him. My kids were in awe as this small gator checked us out! He floated around, ducking his head from time to time, sinking by tucking his arms and then floating again to the surface, arms spread wide.
The moment lasted only five to ten minutes, before he realized we weren't edible and lost interest. He slipped beneath the water and disappeared just as I ran out of room in my phone's memory.
The memory of this special moment was forever burned in our brains. That day, with quiet respect and admiration we were gifted with company of a beautiful, powerful and often dangerous animal. In my opinion he blessed us with an experience not many people get to have in their lifetime.
We will return to the river many times over the coming years, my husband and I even plan to retire to a houseboat on that river. I like to believe that our alligator friend will still be out there and that one day in the future I will see this curious guy again. Maybe a few feet longer and a good deal fatter I hope, but still curious about this small family, respectfully watching him float along. Maybe next time I will have a fish for him.
About the Creator
Abigail Adams -The Mad Cow Mob Boss
I have been a writer since I was able to form sentences. I find passion in writing fiction and positive special interest pieces about extra special people! My love of writing keeps me going, but the love of my children keeps me alive!
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China’s Top Diplomat Tours Africa With a Focus on Strategic Trade Routes
China’s top diplomat’s latest tour of Africa has sent a clear message to the world: Africa remains central to Beijing’s long-term global strategy. While official statements emphasized friendship, development, and cooperation, the underlying focus of the trip was unmistakable — strategic trade routes, logistics corridors, and economic influence. At a time when global supply chains are under strain and geopolitical rivalries are intensifying, China’s diplomatic outreach across Africa reflects a calculated effort to secure access, stability, and influence along some of the world’s most important commercial pathways. Why Africa Matters to China More Than Ever Africa has long played a crucial role in China’s foreign policy, but its importance has grown significantly in recent years. The continent sits at the crossroads of major maritime and overland trade routes, connecting Asia, Europe, and the Americas. From the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean to Atlantic ports and inland transport corridors, Africa offers strategic access points essential to global commerce. For China, which relies heavily on imports of energy, minerals, and agricultural products — and exports manufactured goods worldwide — secure and diversified trade routes are a strategic necessity. Africa provides not only resources and markets, but also geography that can help reduce China’s dependence on chokepoints dominated by rival powers. The Diplomatic Tour: More Than Symbolism The tour by China’s top diplomat covered several key African nations, many of which already play significant roles in regional trade and infrastructure development. Official agendas highlighted cooperation agreements, development assistance, and political dialogue. However, analysts point out that infrastructure connectivity and trade logistics dominated behind-the-scenes discussions. Key themes reportedly included: Port development and modernization Railway and highway connectivity Industrial zones near transport hubs Digital trade and customs facilitation These projects align closely with China’s broader vision of building integrated trade networks that link African economies to Chinese markets — and, by extension, to global supply chains influenced by Beijing. Strategic Trade Routes at the Center of the Visit One of the most notable aspects of the tour was its focus on transport corridors rather than individual projects. China’s approach has evolved from isolated investments to region-wide connectivity strategies. Ports along the eastern African coast are particularly significant. These gateways handle trade flows between Asia and Africa and sit near vital shipping lanes. By supporting port expansion and associated logistics infrastructure, China strengthens its ability to move goods efficiently and reliably, even during periods of global disruption. Inland routes are just as critical. Railways linking ports to resource-rich interior regions reduce transport costs and stabilize supply chains. For African countries, these investments promise economic growth. For China, they ensure long-term access to raw materials and markets. Economic Cooperation or Strategic Influence? China presents its African engagement as a win-win partnership, emphasizing mutual development and respect for sovereignty. Many African governments welcome Chinese investment, citing faster project delivery and fewer political conditions compared to Western financing. However, critics argue that the focus on trade routes reflects a deeper strategic calculus. Control — or at least strong influence — over key logistics infrastructure can translate into political leverage over time. While China does not officially seek military dominance in Africa, its expanding economic footprint inevitably raises questions about long-term strategic presence, especially as trade routes increasingly overlap with security considerations. Africa’s Perspective: Opportunity and Caution African leaders have largely responded positively to the diplomatic tour. Infrastructure development remains a top priority across the continent, and China’s willingness to finance large-scale projects is attractive. For many African countries, improved trade routes offer: Increased export capacity Job creation and industrial growth Better regional integration Reduced transport and logistics costs At the same time, some policymakers and civil society groups urge caution. Concerns include debt sustainability, local labor participation, and long-term economic dependence. As Africa’s negotiating position strengthens, governments are increasingly seeking balanced partnerships that align with national development goals. Global Competition and the African Chessboard China’s intensified diplomatic engagement in Africa does not occur in a vacuum. The United States, the European Union, and other global powers are also increasing their presence on the continent. Trade routes, once viewed primarily as economic assets, are now recognized as geopolitical tools. Control over ports, shipping lanes, and logistics hubs can shape global trade patterns and influence diplomatic alignments. By reinforcing its partnerships across Africa, China is positioning itself to compete more effectively in this emerging multipolar order. The diplomat’s tour sends a signal not only to African partners, but also to rival powers watching closely. Beyond Infrastructure: Political and Diplomatic Goals Trade routes are only one layer of China’s Africa strategy. Diplomatic engagement also aims to: Secure political support in international forums Promote alternative development models Strengthen South-South cooperation narratives Counter Western influence and criticism African nations hold significant voting power in global institutions. Strong diplomatic ties can translate into valuable political backing on issues ranging from trade rules to human rights debates. Is the Belt and Road Vision Evolving? While China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) remains central, the tone of the African tour suggests an evolution rather than expansion. Instead of announcing massive new projects, the focus appears to be on optimizing existing routes and ensuring long-term viability. This shift reflects lessons learned from earlier investments and growing awareness of financial and political risks. The emphasis now is on strategic consolidation, not unchecked growth. Conclusion: Africa at the Heart of China’s Global Strategy China’s top diplomat’s African tour highlights a simple but powerful reality: trade routes are the arteries of global power. By strengthening partnerships along key African corridors, China is reinforcing its economic resilience and geopolitical reach. For Africa, the challenge — and opportunity — lies in leveraging this attention to advance development goals while safeguarding sovereignty and long-term sustainability. As global competition intensifies, Africa is no longer a peripheral player but a central arena where the future of trade, influence, and diplomacy will be shaped. China’s latest diplomatic push makes one thing clear: the battle for strategic connectivity is well underway.
By Muhammad Hassan7 days ago in Earth
Comments (1)
Wow! I love alligators! I always wonder what do the animals think about us humans? Your home looks beautiful and thriving on creativity :)