It seems rather appropriate to be celebrating Earth Day while so many humans are tucked away in their homes across the globe.
What does it say about us as a species that the natural world is flourishing in our relative absence? From stories of dolphins playing in the cleared waters of the canals of Venice, to sea turtles having successful nesting seasons on empty beaches, and bears frolicking in Yellowstone… nature rejoices as humans recede into the background.
Sometimes, we can look at the world’s problems - pollution, animal cruelty, food insecurity, climate change, etc. - and we easily get overwhelmed. But each of us has a role to play and we need only be responsible for our own part.
There is quote by Gary Snyder that I like that helps me turn to action when anxiety wants to take over. “Find your place on the planet. Dig in, and take responsibility from there.”
So, on this Earth Day, I’ll continue to make my little corner of the world a safe place for wildlife. I’ll keep supporting the farms and businesses that I believe take their stewardship responsibilities seriously. And I will keep doing what I can to make a positive impact on the world around me!
How will you celebrate Earth Day?
I spent the morning doing a little wildlife photography in the yard, I hope you enjoy! (Notice the female Cardinal is missing a foot, but she has adapted quite well!)
