A Little Day in the Life from the Sanctuary 🥰😘💞❣️

Every morning when I step into the sanctuary, I’m greeted by a world that feels like pure magic. It’s not the kind of magic you read about in fairy tales—it’s something real, something you can feel in the air and hear in the soft rustling of leaves, the cheerful calls of birds, and the quiet strength of the gorillas who call this place home. Each day here is different, but every single one is filled with love, learning, and the constant reminder that I’m part of something bigger than myself.

I like to think of my time here as being woven into the rhythm of the sanctuary. The day doesn’t start with alarms or traffic, but with the rising sun peeking through the trees. There’s a stillness in those early moments, a kind of peace that makes me pause and breathe deeply. Then, just as the light begins to spread, the sanctuary slowly wakes up too. The gorillas begin stirring, stretching, and greeting each other with the kind of tenderness that melts your heart.

One of the most joyful parts of the morning is preparing breakfast. The gorillas have their favorites—sometimes fruits, sometimes leafy greens, and sometimes little handmade treats crafted with care. It’s not just about feeding them; it’s about nourishing them with love and reminding them that they are safe, cared for, and respected. Watching them eat is a beautiful ritual. There’s a patience in the way they share, a curiosity in how they explore each piece of food, and often, a playful spark in their eyes.

After breakfast, the sanctuary comes alive with activity. Some of the gorillas love to climb, swinging with ease and showing off their strength. Others prefer to lounge, basking in the sunshine like kings and queens on their thrones. And then there are the playful souls, tumbling together in games that look not too different from children at play. Their laughter—or what feels like laughter—echoes through the trees and becomes the soundtrack of the day.

But a day in the sanctuary isn’t just about watching—it’s about connection. Sometimes I sit quietly, close enough to be part of their world, but respectful enough to give them space. There’s something deeply humbling about earning their trust. A soft glance, a moment of eye contact, or even just the feeling that they’re comfortable in your presence—it’s these little things that feel monumental. It’s a reminder that love and respect transcend language.

In the afternoons, when the sun is high, there’s often a calmness that settles over the sanctuary. The gorillas nap, the forest hushes, and I find myself reflecting. I think about the journey that brought each gorilla here—some rescued, some orphaned, some given a second chance at life. Each one carries a story, and together they create a tapestry of resilience and hope. Being here isn’t just about caring for them physically; it’s about honoring their stories and imagining a future where they can live freely, safely, and fully in the wild where they belong.

Of course, there are always little surprises woven into the day. A mischievous young gorilla might sneak up and tug on a piece of clothing, or an elder might show a new behavior that leaves us all amazed. There are moments of laughter, moments of learning, and moments that feel almost spiritual in their quiet beauty. It’s these unexpected experiences that make each day unique and unforgettable.

Evening brings its own special kind of peace. The gorillas gather together, often snuggling into family groups. There’s a warmth in the way they lean on each other, in the way their bonds hold them close. As the sun sets, painting the sky in soft shades of orange and pink, I feel grateful—grateful to witness their lives, to be part of their sanctuary family, and to know that love really is the heart of everything here.

A “little day in the life” at the sanctuary is never really little. It’s filled with moments that remind me of kindness, acceptance, and the deep, unspoken connection between humans and animals. It’s in the quiet trust of a gorilla’s gaze, the gentle rustle of trees in the breeze, the sound of playful calls echoing into the sky. It’s in the laughter, the lessons, and the love that flows endlessly here.

If you asked me what the sanctuary gives me in return, I’d say it’s more than I could ever put into words. It teaches me patience, reminds me of the beauty of slowing down, and shows me the power of community—whether that community is made of humans or gorillas. Every day here is a love story, written in small gestures and big hearts.

So when I share a glimpse of a day in the life from the sanctuary 🥰😘💞❣️, I hope you can feel the magic too. I hope you can imagine the joy of seeing a gorilla discover a new treat, the peace of sitting quietly in their presence, and the wonder of watching them thrive in a place where they are safe and loved. Because at the heart of it all, that’s what the sanctuary is: a safe haven where love is the language, and every single being is family.