Environmental change by living example

Being a native Floridian I have first hand witness of the ecological devastation of this state. I now live in Hammock Fla. I live in and surrounded by pristine woodlands.

The last two years I have lived in the Hammock I have turned the stated woodlands into a bird/animal sanctuary. Making ponds, building feeding boxes for the squirrels, and bird life. Nesting for bird and bat were built. I planted specific plant and flowers for birds and butterflies. My morning ritual, coffee in hand my little dog Mercy Marie following behind, I clean and fill the food and water dishes. I sit quietly awaiting the “fly in “. I take out the hidden can of peanuts, for always there waiting not so patiently certain squirrels for peanuts. Each one awaits its turn and takes its peanut from my hand. Some I have named because of their frequent visits, “Bunny ears, White ears, Baby, and stubby. Hours I have spent sitting in the surrounding woods. Feeling the old oak sensing their spirits, hearts, seeing their lives flash before my eyes. Scenes of joy and of great sorrow. The wind blowing through the trees singing words asking for protection… This for me is the true connection with all life. The realization that all is one living organism “Mother Earth”. That with spirit and heart wide open is what makes the connection for all. I think this is what Margaret Mead was conveying in her profound words “Thoughtful devoted citizens can change the world”. I found that as each neighbor made their visits they felt the peace as it settled over them. I watched as my neighbors have themselves provided feeders, water, planted plants, and provided nesting areas. The efforts of this small community have been an inspiration for me, themselves and those who visit our community. It has given us all a new perspective by working together we have changed the ecological environment of our community as a whole. Therefore spreading conservation further by our living example.