Explorer Riaan Manser, a veteran of extreme environments, has returned to Antarctica—but this time, the journey holds a profoundly different meaning. Accompanied by five wide-eyed Grade 11 pupils, Manser’s latest expedition transcends mere adventure; it has become a masterclass in perspective, reminding us that the most powerful landscapes are often those we see through the eyes of another.
Their arrival on the continent, a place of sublime and intimidating beauty, marks a pivotal moment. For the students, it is the culmination of anticipation—a first encounter with the earth’s last great wilderness. For Manser, a man who has cycled the perimeter of Africa and kayaked around Madagascar, it is a return. Yet, as he observes their unbridled awe, a critical realization dawns: familiarity must never breed indifference.
This dynamic offers a deeper lesson for all of us. Manser’s experience highlights a common human flaw: the tendency for the extraordinary to become ordinary with repetition. Whether it’s a daily commute past a mountain range or the routine of a demanding career, we often stop truly *seeing* what’s before us. The students’ raw excitement acts as a mirror, reflecting back the wonder that Manser—and by extension, any expert or long-time practitioner—risks overlooking. It’s a powerful reminder that mentorship and sharing experiences with newcomers isn’t a one-way street; it’s a reciprocal renewal of passion and perception.
Consider the practical implications of this mindset shift. In fields like science, conservation, or education, veteran professionals can become desensitized to the very phenomena that inspired their careers. Introducing a novice—a student, a new team member, or even an interested friend—forces a re-examination. You must articulate basic principles, question assumed knowledge, and ultimately re-engage with the foundational awe of your subject. This process doesn’t dilute expertise; it reinvigorates it, preventing burnout and fostering innovation.
As Manser and the students progress through their Antarctic itinerary—navigating crevasse fields, observing penguin colonies, and enduring the relentless cold—this shared perspective will be their most valuable tool. The students will gain knowledge and resilience, while Manser will receive the greater gift: a renewed lens through which to view not just the ice, but every challenge and beauty thereafter. Their journey underscores that the greatest expeditions are those that change the explorer from within, proving that sometimes, to see a familiar world anew, you need to look alongside someone seeing it for the very first time.