Unity Through Wilderness: The Significance of Nature to Advocates for Wildlife Preservationists
Embrace the ever-present companion - Mother Nature, as she offers us a sanctuary of happiness, solace, or inspiration, no matter the days they come. In this great nation, we're fortunate to have iconic landscapes and creatures that not only bring us personal delight but also ignite our passion for wildlife and wild spaces.
Defenders' enthusiasts, of all ages and backgrounds, shared heartfelt tales of their love for nature, evoking the common thread that unites us all. They fondly recalled their early encounters with the outdoors, whether spent with family or embracing the tranquility of solitude.
To honor their admiration and passion, we're thrilled to share some personal narratives from Defenders' members spread across the country. We hope their stories resonate with you, filling you with gratitude for the natural world, inspiring you to cherish the beauty around you every day!
Jill S., Florence, OR:
Sundays were magical! My father and I ventured into the local woods together, marveling at birds, frogs, creeks, trees, moss, and more. He kindled within me a lifelong love and fascination for our natural world. I documented my discoveries and expanded my knowledge in books (no internet back then!). This love and awe for Mother Nature flourished throughout my life, eagerly seizing every opportunity to explore, travel, camp, and wander our incredible planet. I find serenity, relief, and gratitude when I'm immersed in nature. Even the most breathtaking sights - soaring eagles, swimming whales, or hummingbirds' delicate wings – still send shivers down my spine. I've made it my mission to share the wonders and excitement of our wilderness. Furthermore, as a wilderness instructor, humane educator, and role model, I strive to instill not just awe but also stewardship and respect for our planet's gifts. Thanks, Dad!
Keri S., Soldotna, AK:
Living on the cusp of Alaska's Kenai Wildlife Refuge, wilderness and wildlife are essential to our very existence. Wildlife serves as the canaries in the coal mine for our survival. The splendor and resilience of wild animals inspire me, teaching me that they seek out living with only the resources around them. They are invaluable, integral parts of my life, even when unseen, offering reassurance. Our future as humans hinges on their well-being.
Jim S., Redwood City, CA:
I'm forever grateful for the day my eyes were opened to nature at the tender age of eight during a California vacation. The sheer beauty of our natural world leaves me astounded, and I'm enchanted by the services it performs – providing food, medicine, oxygen, building materials, carbon storage, and much more. I'm grateful for national parks, marine reserves, open spaces, and protected areas, as they are treasures of inspiration, solace, and healing. It's essential to protect, care for, and show compassion towards these valuable spaces, ensuring they remain sources of wonder for generations to come. Nature doesn't discriminate; everyone deserves a chance to discover its enchantment, regardless of age, race, or creed.
Ruth R., Harrison, MT:
As soon as I learned to walk, my father took me on walks through the woods at our road's end, just the two of us. There, he shared with me his love for nature, and he taught me to see the world through his eyes. Once, on a hillside, he imparted a precious gift: equality. As we split a chocolate bar in half, I realized our equal standing. In his footsteps, I climbed mountains, camped in bear country, marveled at sunsets, and watched wildlife. Although I've explored other wildlands he hadn't, I've learned to appreciate them, making nature my life's work.
Rayden T., Galveston, TX:
Spending a few summer weeks with my grandparents in central New Jersey, far from civilization, was my time with Mother Nature. Here, she guided me, sharing her secrets and wisdom. Hours I'd wander, guided only by instinct, feeling at peace for the first time in my life. Experience on weeklong field trips in 6th and 7th grade added to that connection as I caught a legendary, one-legged, rust-colored frog in the lake and hiked icy trails fearlessly. Nature taught me crucial truths: when something stops growing, it starts dying, so I've never ceased learning about ecosystems, conservation, and our rich nature. My career has led me to the marine ecosystem, where I hope to contribute to understanding our Earth and healing its human-induced wounds.
Kim B., Mattoon, IL:
I've always cherished nature, but a visit to Alaska amplified my passion into an undying devotion. In just a few hours after arriving, I stood before a glacier, glowing in shades of blue I'd never seen, and marveled at bright red salmon packed together in a stream. On the Seward Highway, I witnessed my first volcanoes, leaving me with a purpose: to fight for nature conservation and protection.
Patricia D., Fairfax, VA:
From day one, my parents nurtured my love for nature and animals, teaching me to appreciate this blessing we should treasure. From flowers to trees, and most importantly, animals, we must look within ourselves and understand: one day, it can all be gone. We should cherish and protect nature and wildlife to the fullest extent.
Nancy D., Uniontown, OH:
Being outdoors amongst nature is calming, and I've always loved Ohio's forests, observing opossums, raccoons, squirrels, chipmunks, and birds. It wasn't until recently that I saw a bald eagle in the wild, an experience that stirred me deeply. I encourage others to explore our state parks and lakes, discover your own wildlife encounter, and remember the importance of protecting and preserving our natural environment for future generations to enjoy.
*Note: Stories have been lightly edited for brevity and clarity.
- Jill S., Florence, OR: Fueled by a lifelong passion for environmental science that her father ignited during their Sundays exploring woods and wildlife, she strives to share the wonders of our wilderness as a wilderness instructor and humane educator.
- Keri S., Soldotna, AK: Living near Alaska's Kenai Wildlife Refuge, she finds herself closely connected to the wildlife, acknowledging their integral roles as indicators of our planet's health, and values their presence and resilience.
- Jim S., Redwood City, CA: Inspired by a transformative California vacation at the age of eight, he became an ardent advocate for the protection of natural resources, cherishing our national parks, marine reserves, and open spaces which serve diverse purposes and inspire him in his daily life.
