**Movie Clip: Introducing Punam Kali!

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I gently touched her face and begged, “Please don’t make me fall," then reached over and held on to both her ears. I lifted my right foot, placed it on her trunk, gripped on to her ears and held my breath – trusting.

In one swift, yet fluid motion, she lifted me off the ground with her trunk. My heart was pounding quickly but I realized I was safe once she lifted me gently a little higher. I leaned forward mounted her head with my left leg, shimmied forward, swing my right leg over and successfully mounted my elephant friend, Punam Kali. “Thank you, Punam,” I said excitedly while patting her head. I felt a triumphant smile spread over my face. It was exhilarating and it was all about trust.

It had taken me a few days to gather enough trust to satisfy my determination and mount Punam Kali the way I have seen her mahout (trainer) do so. One day, I decided to trust. I hesitated for a second but once my right foot touched her trunk, there was no turning back. I held on and trusted.

On that day, my elephant friend, restored my capacity to trust.

I had spent many days at the river helping to bathe Punam Kali. Her bathing time was enjoyable for both of us. I didn’t get any pictures on that first day that I mounted her but I was able to get photos during the next few days.

Please click on the following link to join my experience.

Enjoy!

http://www.vimeo.com/clip:91898