There are few places on this earth that hold such a special place in my heart as does beautiful Brazil. Sitting in that boat on the river, watching the regal Jaguar in the tree in front of me, I couldn’t help but feel an immense sense of gratitude for all the events that had led me to this point.

Seventeen years ago, I set foot into this beautiful country for the first time. I didn’t speak any Portuguese and I didn’t know a single person here. But, over the next two years I would learn the language, learn to love the people, the culture, and I would cherish every moment of it! I was a service missionary for my church, and little did I know that the experiences that I was having would open doors for me here in the future.

Now, almost two decades later, I sat in that boat photographing the stunning Jaguar, finally understanding the significance of the events that had led me to this point. I looked over at my friend and wonderful boat driver, a smile plastered on my face, and received a warm smile in return. Turning back to the Jaguar I raised my camera and began to photograph her again, even she seemed to be wearing a slight smile. Gratitude filled my soul, a bird called in the distance, a Caiman splashed in the water nearby and all was perfect!