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Disclaimer
This blog was created for the ENVS*3000 course at the University of Guelph.
The opinions expressed here represent my own and not those of the University of Guelph.
The University of Guelph is not responsible for the accuracy of any of the information supplied by this blog.
Cultivating My Ethic as a Nature Interpreter
As I near the conclusion of this course, I’ve had the opportunity to reflect deeply on who I am as a nature interpreter, the beliefs I hold, and the responsibilities I carry in this role. My journey through environmental interpretation has been transformative, shaping my understanding of the delicate balance between engaging audiences, fostering curiosity, and inspiring stewardship. I’ve realized that interpreting nature is not just about conveying facts, it’s about creating meaningful connections that motivate people to care for the natural world.
My Beliefs as a Nature Interpreter
At the heart of my personal ethic lies the conviction that nature interpretation must be inclusive, hopeful, and actionable. I firmly believe that everyone, regardless of their background, should have the opportunity to connect with nature in ways that resonate with them. This belief stems from my own experiences, moments in nature that grounded me, brought me joy, and helped me make sense of the world.
I also believe in the power of storytelling to bridge the gap between knowledge and action. Facts and data are important, but it is stories that move people. Stories of resilience, interconnectedness, and beauty have the potential to turn passive listeners into active participants in conservation.
Finally, I hold a strong belief in the importance of hope. As Jacob Rodenburg highlighted, the challenges facing the environment can feel overwhelming, like stopping a rushing river with a teaspoon. But hope, paired with actionable steps, can empower people to believe that their actions matter. My role as an interpreter is to provide that hope while equipping my audience with tools for change.
My Responsibilities as an Interpreter
As an interpreter, I have a responsibility to be a steward of both knowledge and connection. This involves ensuring that my interpretation is accurate, inclusive, and reflective of diverse perspectives. The stories I share must be grounded in truth while also honoring the voices and experiences of those who came before us, be it Indigenous communities, scientists, or everyday people who have forged connections with the natural world.
Another key responsibility is fostering a sense of agency in my audience. It is not enough to inspire awe or curiosity. I must guide my audience toward meaningful actions they can take in their own lives. Whether it’s as simple as planting pollinator-friendly flowers or as ambitious as advocating for policy changes, every step matters.
Finally, I recognize my responsibility to continuously learn and grow. The field of environmental interpretation is ever evolving, and staying informed about new research, methods, and perspectives is essential. By doing so, I can ensure that my work remains relevant and impactful.
My Approaches
Given my love for storytelling and connecting with others, I find that narrative based interpretation resonates most with me. Sharing personal anecdotes, weaving in cultural or historical context, and using vivid imagery allows me to bring the natural world to life for my audience. For instance, instead of listing facts about pollination, I might share the story of a single honeybee’s journey and its role in sustaining an entire ecosystem.
Interactive approaches also align with my style. Encouraging my audience to touch, smell, and observe their surroundings actively engages them and makes the experience more memorable. I’ve seen how hands-on learning, like examining a tree’s bark or listening for bird calls, can ignite a sense of wonder that lasts far longer than a lecture.
Incorporating Richard Louv’s concept of reconnecting with childhood wonder has also shaped my approach. Whether it’s inviting children to climb trees or encouraging adults to pause and listen to the rustling leaves, I aim to create experiences that transport people back to their earliest memories of nature. It is in these moments that I see the spark of curiosity and care reignite.
Making Every Day Count
One of the greatest challenges in environmental interpretation is ensuring that the work remains meaningful, both for myself and my audience. To achieve this, I remind myself daily of the “why” behind what I do. This isn’t just a job, it’s a way to inspire people to see the world differently and take steps toward a more sustainable future.
For my audience, I strive to make every interaction count. This might mean tailoring my message to their specific interests, asking thought-provoking questions, or simply creating a space for them to reflect. I’ve learned that it’s not about bombarding them with information but about planting a seed of curiosity that they can nurture on their own.
Beyond the Course
As I move forward, I see this course as a springboard for further exploration and application. I plan to continue developing my skills, perhaps by engaging with some of the organizations listed in the course material. Joining networks like Interpretation Canada or the North American Association for Environmental Education could provide opportunities to connect with like minded individuals and refine my practice.
I also hope to bring these lessons into other areas of my life, whether it’s through community education programs, volunteering at nature reserves, or simply sharing my love for the environment with friends and family. Interpretation is not limited to formal settings; it can happen anywhere, from a classroom to a campfire.
“So What?”
Ultimately, this course has taught me that environmental interpretation is about more than conveying information, it’s about creating a legacy. The stories we tell, the connections we foster, and the actions we inspire all contribute to a collective effort to protect the planet. As an interpreter, I carry the weight of that responsibility, but also the joy of knowing that I can make a difference.
As I wrap up this post and this course, I feel a renewed sense of purpose. I am grateful for the tools and insights I’ve gained and excited to continue this journey. To anyone reading this, I encourage you to find your own “why” and let it guide you. Together, we can create a world where nature is not just appreciated but actively protected.
This was an incredible post! Reading through all of the different perspectives and opinions of my classmates has been a really fun time, and seeing people with similar ideals and experiences as my own is a great thing to see. Reading through your post, it is easy to see that you and I agree on the true fundamentals of interpretation. The goal of growing connections from the content to the student and helping the student go forward in life with a better understanding and appreciation for life and the things around them is definitely a heavy responsibility, but like you, I am very happy to be able to try and tackle it. The gift nature interpretation gives us is the flexibility and endless variety in ways you can take on that responsibility. In my post, I mentioned the connection to Cabot Yerxa Elementary School the book makes, showcasing a clear positive connection the students gained when learning about their past, and for me, learning about nature has this exact same effect (Beck et al., 2018). I also relate to your approach in interpretation, taking on a more storyteller role and trying to explain the facts of nature through digestible and relatable anecdotes or stories the audience can appreciate. Making up and telling stories is something I always admire in a teacher and in my time working with children, it is an especially useful tactic. A good story can grab anyone's attention, and I think the more attention nature interpretation can get, the better.
Beck, L., Cable, T. T., & Knudson, D. M. (2018). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage: For A Better World. SAGAMORE Publishing, Sagamore Venture.
Blog Post 10
Describe your personal ethic as you develop as a nature interpreter. What beliefs do you bring? What responsibilities do you have? What approaches are most suitable for you as an individual?
My core beliefs as an environmental educator stem from the concept of fun and equality. Reflecting throughout my growth in this course and how I’ve been able to define my experiences in environmental interpreting, I realized that what is important to me is how we can use enjoyment to build deeper connections with nature. Initially, when I started this course, I always assumed I would continue my role as a nature interpreter, working with summer camp-age kids and taking them to national parks to experience the beauty of nature and hard work or simply getting them outside and being active. However, while learning more about the different ways to interpret nature and the various challenges presented to other individuals, my goals have changed.
I have always had an incredibly strong opinion of what is fair. When I was younger, I struggled because so many inherent aspects of life simply weren’t fair. As an adult and a nature interpreter, I realize now that I can use that sense of fairness to bring about change. I was always aware of my privilege when I was younger, but only in growing up did I realize I was so much more privileged than I previously thought. I grew up in a house with a backyard, a park nearby, a ravine within walking distance, and parents who encouraged my siblings and me to explore nature and ask questions. Even more so, I realized my privilege in attending a summer camp where I was required to go to Algonquin Park and take a canoe trip. It taught me fundamental skills and beliefs like the ability to swim, the mindset that I can do hard things and that physical and emotional discomfort is often temporary and rewarding.
These experiences shape who I am and how I approach problems in life. It was also incredibly fun. This is a part I often forget when sharing my experiences in nature. Not only did I learn a lot about myself and the environment, but I did so because I was having fun. This realization made me realize that the most important lessons I’ve learned in nature have stayed with me because they are tied to memories of joy and laughter. I am so incredibly grateful for these experiences and now want to be able to bring them to more kids. Most of my peers I experienced nature with were financially stable, white, and from emotionally stable and supportive homes. Not everyone has those blessings, but that shouldn’t prevent them from experiencing nature like I did.
When I think of my responsibilities as an interpreter, I believe it is essential to acknowledge that we deal with kids who have been denied the same experiences we have. They spent their formative years in a pandemic surrounded by screens and the anxiety of being outside. They also have to fight with the dopamine addictions that screens bring in comparison to the joy of being outside. That is where I believe you have to work with kids and not against them. For them to want to be outside, it has to be fun. My responsibilities as a nature interpreter is to facilitate fun activities they can do while they learn: scavenger hunts and games where they learn about nature but can still compete. Sneaking in lessons while they learn new skills. Prompting them to think and reflect about nature while doing outdoor activities you know they enjoy.
Reflecting on the times I’ve been acting as a nature interpreter for kids, I haven’t fully reflected on how my experience differs from there. When I worked with kids who were born in the pandemic, I didn’t consider the deficits they would have. Many were terrified of being dirty, and some didn’t even know how to play tag. It was a baffling experience but an important one. At the time, I was simply shocked by the fact that they didn’t know tag, a game that I don’t even remember learning but made me run around in nature. Now, thinking on that, it makes me reflect even further on how to almost “dumb down” my basic approaches to getting kids involved in nature.
Looking back now, my style of interpretation has been very much focused on kids with a similar background as me. Many kids don’t know how to swim especially if they live in lower-income areas in the city. They don’t have access to similar experiences to my own, like going to Algonquin Park, and potentially don’t have parks or nature around them. In the future, I am going to tailor my interpreting with a more basic approach that explains more of the fundamentals of nature instead of what I assume they already know.
Incredible post Emma! It is very heartwarming to see other people with the same core beliefs as I have. Reading your reflection on your time in nature and your beliefs that nature interpretation can surpass the privileges that you and your friends had is very exciting, and seeing how you have defined your responsibilities around them is a great idea. It really connects to what I wrote about myself, focusing on the responsibility of someone who is educated to teach those who want to learn, and for those who are educated in essential things like nature to try to teach everyone they can. Your reflection on your time as a nature interpreter is especially relatable to me, even the pandemic kid part. Working at camp, I dealt with kids from 6 - 16, and those missing years in school really showed for a lot of them. Taking away that chance to mature as a person around others, and for the younger ones, to be away from home, is something that is going to show effects for a long time, and adapting to that, developing with your audience, and changing your strategies like you and the book describe is an incredible solution (Beck et al., 2018). Your reflection on how your privilege affected your style of interpretation is something I never thought of, and your look into it is very insightful. I completely relate to your description too and never thought about that. Thanks for the insight!
Beck, L., Cable, T. T., & Knudson, D. M. (2018). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage: For A Better World. SAGAMORE Publishing, Sagamore Venture.
The Ethics of Interpretation
To ask the ethics of nature interpretation is to ask the ethics of education. Few jobs in this world are more important than education, and I am not only saying that because my father was a teacher. To educate someone is to show them an entirely different side of something, possibly something they see every day, and show them what it is, why it is, and how it works. It is intrinsic in our lifestyle, teaching those around us what we know so they can grow up and utilize this information, hopefully discovering more and adding to the collective knowledge of humanity. Teaching is even shown in other animals, from non-human primates like golden lion tamarins to meerkats and even a species of rock ant (Morell, 2015). Without teaching, we would be lost in our society, unsure of how to survive, not to mention how to take on working or driving, and that's only for our daily lives. For something as complex and confusing as nature, teaching is essential.
Throughout this class, we have covered countless different examples of how teaching and interpretation can affect people for the better, from learning about their school's namesake, a hardworking, resilient man named Cabot Yerxa, to the importance of learning about what Canada did to our Indigenous peoples (Beck et al., 2018). These teach us important lessons on how to connect to our communities, understand their past and how we can improve it in the future. Edward Hyams' quote in chapter 7 is especially effective at describing the merit of keeping memories, histories, and ancient things whole to remember and reflect on the past (Beck et al., 2018). When every major event is "unprecedented," and people seem to be losing hope, keeping this perspective and responsibility of preserving and interpreting history has never been more important. A quote I try to live by is “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it” (Santayana, 1905). This quote was written by George Santayana in 1905, and it still shows its use every day, from me procrastinating my work again to major political movements. Learning from mistakes, both my own and others is a very useful skill in life, and teaching others the history of the problems they are facing, the strategies that have been used to overcome relevant issues, and how to apply this knowledge is one of an interpreter's most powerful abilities.
As with history, nature interpretation is crucial to understanding our surroundings, and is especially important now. In a world of seemingly endless environmental crises and countless rich people who don't seem to care, engraining an appreciation of nature into our lives is essential. In my belief, learning about nature creates an appreciation of nature in the students, making them want to preserve and protect it. This leads to a desire for conservation and research, which then leads to more knowledge to be taught. I believe that following and extending this cycle is crucial if we are to save our planet. Showing people that it is our responsibility to protect that which cannot defend itself, that preserving the beauty, complexity, and careful balance of an ecosystem is a job for everyone, not just ecologists, and that we do have hope. This is where my responsibilities as a nature interpreter take root. Showing people the wonders that nature has to offer and that it is worth learning about, worth protecting, and worth fighting for. If we can teach someone about all the incredible things nature can offer, all the things they can appreciate and admire, we can help finally stop the climate crisis and push past the restrictions that keep us back.
Something truly incredible about nature interpretation is that even with all the power it holds, it can be done in countless different ways. From YouTube videos to hikes to drives through the African savanna, it can be done online, and in-person, and can reach any age and financial range. This flexibility makes it so interesting to me, and if I were to find my place in the cycle of nature interpretation, I would love to find myself as a researcher. Being on the forest floor and deciphering the mysteries of nature itself, adding to the collective knowledge of humanity and understanding something about our world that gives us an even deeper appreciation of it all. I have been given the privilege to be educated in my field, and I aim to spread this gift to the world, as is the responsibility of all educated people. Another possibility is to be on a much more interpretive side of things, explaining this research to the people and connecting with them. Whether I find myself as a zookeeper or a teacher, fulfilling my responsibilities and changing the lives of anyone who cares to listen would be an incredible gift. To show them even a glimpse into the world of nature would be a great accomplishment, and to match the effect of those interpreters described in the book like leading to the creation of a national park would be an honour (Beck et al., 2018).
Interpretation is one of the most ethical things a person could do. To share your knowledge with another, to expand their perspective on a topic, and to get them to develop even a hint of excitement and appreciation you have for your field is a gift. I will leave you with a quote my father told me: "The future is held in the hands of teachers and those who will listen to them."
Beck, L., Cable, T. T., & Knudson, D. M. (2018). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage: For A Better World. SAGAMORE Publishing, Sagamore Venture.
Morell, V. (2015, September 28). Do animals teach? National Wildlife Federation. https://www.nwf.org/Magazines/National-Wildlife/2015/OctNov/Animals/Animal-Teaching
Santayana, G. (1905). The Life of Reason: The Phases of Human Progress. Dover Publications.
The Interplay of Music and Nature
Where is music in nature? Where is nature in music? These two questions have been swirling around in my mind since exploring this week’s unit. At first glance, they seem simple enough to answer. Nature is full of music the chirping of birds, the wind rustling through the trees, the rhythmic crashing of waves on a shore. Music, in turn, often draws inspiration from nature. But as I dive deeper into these ideas, I realize that the relationship between the two is more profound than I originally thought.
Nature creates music naturally, and without much effort, if any. One example that comes to mind is the way different bird species create intricate calls and songs. Some, like the nightingale, seem almost composed, with complex melodies that vary in pitch and rhythm. The natural soundscapes of the forest or even the ocean floor offer their own symphonies, made up of countless living organisms harmonizing their environment. Each element, from the smallest insect buzz to the howling of the wind, contributes to a greater whole, creating a musical experience in nature that transcends human creation. The more I think about it, the more I realize that nature might have been our first teacher in music.
Music, as an art form, has evolved to capture the essence of nature in ways that language alone cannot. It conveys emotions, tells stories, and connects us to experiences we might not have lived ourselves. In the case of nature, composers like John Denver or even modern wildlife DJs like Ben Mirin use sound to convey the beauty and complexity of the natural world. Denver’s songs, such as “Take Me Home, Country Roads,” immediately transport me to rolling hills and serene country landscapes, even if I’m listening from my apartment. Meanwhile, Ben Mirin’s use of birdsongs in beatboxing bridges the gap between the natural world and modern musical expression, creating a unique blend that captures nature’s inherent musicality.
One of the most remarkable things about the connection between music and nature is how it evokes a sense of place. For me, there’s one song that never fails to take me back to a specific natural landscape: Fleetwood Mac’s Landslide. Every time I hear it, I’m transported to a camping trip I took as a teenager in Algonquin Park. The soft strumming of the guitar and the raw, reflective lyrics always remind me of watching the sunset over a quiet lake, the air filled with the scent of pine and the distant sound of loons calling across the water. The song’s simplicity captures the quiet beauty of nature and reminds me of the way nature makes us feel small, yet connected to something much larger.
Music, like nature, has the ability to stir emotions and provoke reflection. Whether it’s the wind moving through the trees or the pluck of a guitar string, both forms of expression tap into something primal and universal. As a nature interpreter, understanding this connection can be a powerful tool. Incorporating music, or at least the recognition of natural soundscapes, into environmental interpretation can deepen the audience’s experience, making it more emotional and memorable. After all, it’s one thing to talk about the sound of waves on a beach, and another to hear it and feel it in real time.
Ultimately, both music and nature share a common goal: to evoke emotion, to tell stories, and to remind us of the beauty that exists around us. The more we engage with these soundscapes, whether natural or human-made, the more we can foster a deeper connection to the environment. By recognizing and appreciating the music within nature and the nature within music, we open ourselves up to a richer, more interconnected experience of the world around us.
Great post! I think your approach to this question is really well done. It is really interesting to hear your spin on this pretty broad writing prompt, and it is really fun to see that we came to different kinds of conclusions. Your mention of John Denver's Country Roads, Take Me Home is something I can completely resonate with, to the point that I am curious what percentage of posts this week mention it. That song takes me directly back to singing it at campfires as the sun sets on the lake, taking in the ending of another day at camp. Fleetwood Mac's Landslide is also an incredible pick, and I can definitely understand why that song would bring you back to Algonquin, especially with how well you described your connection to it. Another good example of artists bringing nature into music that I mentioned in my post was Flight of the Bumblebee. I think that song fits this question perfectly, and it fits the goal of transposing the fast, chaotic movements of the bumblebee into music. As you say in your conclusion, it evokes emotion, tells a story, and reminds us of the hidden complexity of the world around us. The textbook talks a lot about using media to convey these exact things, for the purpose of commercials or broadcasting, but I think if we could use these tools for nature interpretation, taking in everything we've learned through this course, we could connect to people in a completely different way than before.
Music In Nature In Music
To find music in nature one must first define what music is. With a quick Google search, we find the definition "vocal or instrumental sounds (or both) combined in such a way as to produce beauty of form, harmony, and expression of emotion" (Oxford University Press, 2024). Nature is full of instruments and vocalizations, from the sound of a babbling brook to the chirps of birds to the crunch of leaves under a squirrel. These 'instruments' are used to create beauty, as anyone who's ever spent time admiring the nature around them can tell you, and create their form, harmony, and expression of emotion that musicians have tried to emulate for centuries. Beethoven's 6th Symphony 'Pastoral,' Tchaikovsky's ‘Rose’ Adagio, and Rimsky-Korsakov's Flight of the Bumblebee are just a few examples of this attempted emulation, even back in the 1800s, and pieces like it, especially Flight of the Bumblebee, are still recognizable and admired even now (Roberts, 2024). This is also where nature can be found in music, with these attempted emulations of natural phenomena like the flight of a bumblebee or the beauty and serenity of a pastoral farmland. This draw to replicate the ideals of nature and the complexity of the environment around us becomes their artistic muse, with their goal to translate this incredible experience and sight they have seen to the masses through their form of expression. In a way, they are nature interpreters themselves, trying to explain what they saw and what they enjoyed about their environment in a way they can share and understand.
Crop of portrait of the composer Nikolai Andreyevich Rimsky-Korsakov, Valentin Serov, Wikimedia Commons, circa 1998. Public Domain.
Something powerful about music is its ability to grab onto specific environments and contexts in our minds, making us remember when and where we heard that specific song before. Though I can't imagine hearing them in any other context, repeat after me songs like Tree in a Hole, Animal Fair, and Get Loose Get Funky are songs built for campfires and entertaining children, but for me, the most important songs find themselves in the ending of things, from the ending of a session of camp to the final drive back after a week away in the woods. I associate these songs with the end-of-session slideshow they played every time, and despite not remembering the photos in those slideshows or even the names of the songs, if I ever heard them, I would be brought back immediately. Songs like Take Me Home, Country Roads by John Denver fill me with memories of singing it at closing campfire, or songs like Riptide fill me with dread because of the ungodly amount of times I've had to listen to it for the same reason. I have a specific place in my mind and my heart for these kinds of songs, and though I can rarely remember the titles of them, because some of them were definitely royalty-free, I am dragged back the second I hear that opening guitar strum. The textbook describes the use of digital media like advertisements and television to drive an idea in your head, but I think if you were able to link a song to the idea of camp, that song would never stop playing.
Roberts, M. S. (2024, June 19). 20 greatest pieces of classical music inspired by nature and gardens. Classic FM. https://www.classicfm.com/discover-music/best-classical-music-nature-gardening/
Oxford University Press. (September, 2024). Music. In Oxford English dictionary. October 27th, 2024.
Week 6 Blog Post
Hyams’ quote highlights the importance of natural history on a comprehensive level. He emphasizes the value of unifying every aspect of history and acknowledging it through our actions today. Without processing the past, we cannot truly understand the impact of our actions in the present. I’m sure we can all think of an example where our pasts have made us think deeply about our actions. Perhaps a hurtful joke delivered by a friend still lingers in the back of your mind, even after an apology. Maybe a stranger holding the door for you yesterday made you stop and do the same for someone today. I think Hyams’ quote is impactful because although he references ancient history, I don’t think it must be applied only in that context. I think for many, nuance is a skill that is learnt. I imagine it is innately human to stick to what we know, even in a learning environment. This is why ensuring students are comfortable shifting perspectives and keeping an open mind is vital. The same should be applied to nature interpretation, and this involves ensuring audiences can be communicated with effectively, as well as conveying information in a way that invokes relation and understanding.
In order to ensure audiences are being effectively communicated with, it is important to understand how they receive your information. In the context of interpreting natural history, the value of the information being offered can fluctuate depending on its delivery. Written communication may be dismissed as disengaging or exhaustive, but it’s value shines through when we consider its permanence. There are certain emotions that cannot be evoked through the use of oral communication. When we see a weathered plaque, we feel connected to it’s history; the who, what, why, and where. Sometimes, the plaque may answer all of these questions, or maybe it won’t. Either way, we have connected with a piece of history and it has invoked a thought process that may span centuries.
Pictured is the Obadjiwan-Fort-Témiscamingue National Historic Site. Visuals are a great way to grab interest and encourage the audience to want to delve deeper into the material. (Source: Parks Canada, 2023)
It is understood that effective communication breeds effective interpretation. Following Hyams’ approach means communicating all parts of history; the good and the bad. In most of my education I have been taught history through the lens of Canada as a European colony. Indigenous perspectives were rarely taken into consideration in my early education, usually only mentioned as a stepping stone in the ‘victory’ that was Canada’s colonization. This perspective could be considered as one narrative that I was taught, but I didn’t learn until a bit later into my education that there were so many more stories that went unheard. Biases are present in natural history as well, and their presence can affect how we interpret nature today. I don’t think history can be so easily minimized to a puzzle, with events all being small pieces of a larger picture. There are many different perspectives to be made with the pieces of history depending on the perspective we have.
Source: Parks Canada Agency, Government of Canada. “Review of Existing National Historic Designations - HSMBC.” National Historic Designations, 23 July 2024, parks.canada.ca/culture/designation/revue-review. Accessed 18 Oct. 2024.
Amelia, this is an incredible post. Your connections to situations the reader has most likely found themselves in (I know I have) were incredibly well done and really pushed what you understood the meaning of the quote in an understandable and relatable way. Your comment on the purpose of plaques was also interesting, putting the process of thought and connection over the actual information it provided. I think the importance of plaques like that is to inspire future research so the viewer can learn more about the context, but I would be curious if you disagree and how that kind of teaching could be applied to nature interpretation.
I also relate to your connections to learning Canadian history and learning about the First Nations. Luckily for me, while in elementary school and high school, there was a huge push to teach this side of Canadian history. I had teachers who could communicate the crimes our government committed in a tone that fit the subject matter, providing a much deeper understanding of Canadian history. To understand Canadian history, you must know the lies, pain, and generational trauma our country's government has inflicted upon the First Nations and how we still take advantage of those things today before you can understand the value of where we live and why we live there. It keeps the "integrity" of our country's history, teaching us about the land we inhabit, the people who built Canada, and what it truly means to be a Canadian.
Our Place in History
There is no peculiar merit in ancient things, but there is merit in integrity, and integrity entails the keeping together of the parts of any whole, and if these parts are scattered throughout time, then the maintenance of integrity entails a knowledge, a memory, of ancient things. …. To think, feel or act as though the past is done with, is equivalent to believing that a railway station through which our train has just passed, only existed for as long as our train was in it. (Edward Hyams, Chapter 7, The Gifts of Interpretation)
The Hunt of the Unicorn Tapestry 1, Unknown Artist, Wikimedia Commons, circa 1495-1505. Public Domain.
Edward Hyams' quote is an incredibly moving piece of writing, providing an insight into the nature and virtues of historians and those who value the past. This quote explains that history is more than just museum artifacts or old art pieces. It should focus on the effect it has had on our present and our future, as to keep and preserve the "integrity" of a region and its culture. History is a study of change and appreciating and recognizing this change, from the finest details to the most broad strokes, is its purpose. Interpreting this change, connecting with audiences, relating it to them, and showing them their place in the grand tapestry of history is an essential job. It can truly change how people see the world and appreciate the living history they are surrounded by. The textbook mentions a prime example of this importance in its story of Cabot Yerxa and the students who learn to appreciate their home despite the circumstances they find themselves in (Beck et al., 2018). Learning about the history of their town and their school's namesake, the students came to appreciate their home and how it came to be - through the hard work, ingenuity, and resourcefulness of a man over one hundred years before them (Beck et al., 2018).
I've been interested in history since I was a kid, taking classes throughout high school and a few in university. Learning about how people used to do things, how culture and ideas have changed, and the issues people were focused on fascinates me. The most important part about this was that I had incredible history teachers every year I took it. I was taught by people who were passionate about history and knew how to make the content more than just reading from a textbook. In elementary school, we took the places of the Fathers of the Confederation, researching and deliberating if our province should join Canada. In high school, we did activities that put us in the place of people living through the Great Depression or the Cold War Red Scare, managing tight budgets or accusing our classmates of being a secret communist. In university, we learned about the ancient Greeks and Romans through stories and jokes, comparing what they viewed as normal to our culture and society today. These classes pushed how history was taught and showed me that there is almost always a creative and fun way to teach things. They were incredible interpreters, and they connected me to history and the culture of the world in a way a textbook could only dream of. They taught us and helped us maintain this "integrity" of the world we live in and what we take for granted every day, and I aspire to teach as well as they have taught me.
The quote's ending reminds me of a similar quote from Vice President Harris, remarking on her mother's teachings: "You think you just fell out of a coconut tree? You exist in the context of all in which that came before you." Your place in history is an incredibly important thing to learn. The context of what has come before you and how that affects you is essential to truly appreciating the world around you and the life you live, and I hope more people realize this soon. “You have to know the past to understand the present.” - Carl Sagan.
Citations:
Beck, L., Cable, T. T., & Knudson, D. M. (2018). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage: For A Better World. SAGAMORE Publishing, Sagamore Venture.
｡˚·ꕤ⋆Blog 5｡⋆❀
I’ve always been aware that my relationship with our earth is one very intuitive and enlightening by nature. I didn’t realize how heavily this would tie into my future career and role as a nature interpreter until this semester. As a biology and business major (BAS), I enrolled in this course with interest from a scientific and academic approach; however, as I answer each weekly prompt, I realize the sacred views I have of nature are not inherently how everybody feels about it. I’ve always felt a sense of belonging and “oneness” outdoors, surrounded by the ethereal and whimsical elements of nature and wildlife. Similarly, this blog has become an outlet for me to reflect and connect with individuals who share the same love for the natural world. I wasn’t quite sure of what to write for this week’s open topic. I considered talking about the detrimental impact fast fashion has on our environment, as it’s something I’ve always been pretty vocal about. After some thought, I realized I’ve been excessively reflecting on and comparing the differences between my opinions and experience to that of my peers. I’ve asked myself the questions “is it really that deep?” and “is my perspective not scholarly enough?”
While browsing through the collection of my peers’ blog posts, I’ve read about various perspectives of “nature interpretation” and how those views were formed through different life experiences. I’ve been captivated by photographs and entries written by a wide range of individuals, each telling tales of their own unique encounters with the outdoors all over the world! I’ve noticed a decent percentage of my peers are in environmental studies and expressed interest in future roles educating the public in national parks and museums. It’s evident that majority of us aspire to have future careers immersed in nature, encouraging others to increase their awareness to current environmental issues and preaching appreciation for nature as a whole. Likewise, I also envision a future for myself educating the public, but my passion for nature has always been tied to wildlife conservation and raising awareness for all species on our planet.
I’ve resonated with and related to numerous entries in the past four weeks, specifically with classmates who’ve expressed a significant emotional or spiritual connection with nature. I agree with everyone that nature can be very healing and physically/mentally soothing, but it goes far beyond that for me. Nature isn’t something I view as a place to go to escape the busyness and stress of life in our society, but something I wholly identify with.
To me, nature is mystical and enchanting: It’s debatably magical. I feel validated and connected after reading that some of you also see it through this transcendental lense! My introduction to this philosophic ideology was the first time I had considered the significance of maintaining the harmonious aura that connects nature and mankind. I can thank my grade 9 English teacher for introducing me to Henry David Thorough: I even glued the quote “All Good Things are Wild and Free” on my high school graduation cap.
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This was well-written Chance! I resonate with your message throughout this post, as I have also had a deep appreciation and connection with nature. Connecting to your mention of fast fashion, as I have grown older and am now financially responsible for myself, I find myself looking into the environmental effects of what I buy and I don't usually like what I see. Recently, I have begun attempting to cut palm oil and its constituents out of my diet and what I purchase. I have also been looking into the companies that use them and whether or not they are using them responsibly or contributing to the habitat destruction and pollution that results from palm oil farming. I mentioned in a recent response to another post my objections and confusion to Doug Ford's motion to expand and develop into the Greenbelt, a protected area near my family home. People like the CEOs and our Premier make me wonder whether they have the same connection to nature as I do or if money has changed or simply silenced their appreciation of the beautiful and precious natural world around them. Looking through other's blog posts as you have, this lack of connection becomes even more confusing to me. There seems to be a near-infinite number of ways to develop an appreciation of nature in any aspect, from camps to living in the Mediterranean to enjoying the green areas of Toronto, yet they devalue it and risk the health of our entire planet to boost their bottom line. Do you have any thoughts like this? Any other specific kinds of products I should avoid? Don't be afraid to share!
Modern Nature Interpretation
In the new age of entertainment, dominated by on-demand content from streaming services to YouTube, nature interpretation can and has reached new heights in popularity and effectiveness. BraveWilderness on YouTube, Maya Higa on Twitch, and the entire Planet Earth series come to mind, adapting to their respective platforms to build their brands of nature interpretation. As with anything new, however, there are plenty of pros and cons to discuss in this new world of online and on-demand nature interpretation content.
© John Cairns / Wikimedia Commons / CC-BY-SA-3.0 / GFDL
First and foremost, the biggest pro of online and on-demand nature interpretation is its accessibility. Though some content might be locked behind a paywall, such as on Netflix, Hulu, or other streaming sites, videos and live streams on YouTube and Twitch are entirely free to watch. As the internet and smartphones become globally widespread, videos become more and more convenient and available. Coyote Peterson, the host of BraveWilderness, and Maya Higa use their platforms to communicate to their extensive and diverse audience, teaching them about what makes animals so fascinating, how to be safe and respect them, and why nature needs to be protected. To do this, they mainly focus on the most interesting facts, keeping terminology simple, using diagrams or footage of the animal, and presenting with a charismatic and engaging personality. As a zoology major, keeping terminology simple and digestible is what I appreciate and admire the most, as I don't imagine many people have an anatomical understanding of how spiders breathe or the distribution patterns of mussels in Ontario's water systems. This accessibility can be essential to those who don't have access to nature, those who don't have the materials to learn about it, those just getting into the topic, or even those who want to see a cool animal and learn a cool fact about the world around them. Online nature interpretation can connect to all age groups, education levels, and financial classes, as long as they have access to the internet and an interest in nature, and is essential to help push the creation of more "citizen scientists," as Washington Wichara's TED Talk describes them.
© Mark Vins / https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sB_9TIEL5Vo / CC-BY-SA-3.0 / GFDL
The issue that clashes with this accessibility is the lack of personal connection and direct, in-person appreciation of nature. A peaceful walk through nature, hearing the animals around you, appreciating the silence and wonder of it all, that has not been recreated by technology yet (though I'm sure virtual reality is getting closer every day). In my experience as a nature interpreter during my time as a camp counsellor, this in-person experience was crucial. The connection kids got while walking down the rabbit trails, surrounded by nature, finding an interesting bug, a peaceful place to sit, or a plant they've never seen, that just can't be beat. Teaching them about the things they saw with their own eyes - the things they thought were interesting - opens kids up to look around and be curious. They ask questions and learn, and what more can a nature interpreter ask for?
What do you think? Do you have any favourite nature series or content creators? I'm always excited to see new content and expand my horizons, so don't be afraid to share!
Unit 4 - Art and Beauty in Interpretation
“ Reporting the beauty of a scene might reduce the opportunity for inspiration.”
Honestly, I really had to sit back and think, who am I to interpret nature through art? I do not paint or draw, nor does anyone in my family. However, I can appreciate beauty in all forms. Nature is without a doubt represented beautifully through art. Colour can trigger emotion. As well as perspective and depth.
As described in chapter 5, interpretation should instill beauty inside of people. It should allow people to sense it, even if in artistic form.
A popular interpretation I think of is starry night. After viewing that painting, I find myself wanting to see the beauty in the night. Sometimes, I forget to stop and look up. Yet, that painting reminds me of all the night can offer.
In Starry Night, you can see Van Gogh’s perception of the world. His use of depth in the sky and landscape and colours swirled together manifests gratefulness. I feel that I can almost put myself in his shoes when he was painting it.
The gift of beauty is is to spiritually guide people and encourage preservation. As art ages, and urbanization persists, I think beauty could partly be what saves certain natural landscapes. For example, living in a city, I sometimes forget what nature has to offer. It’s artwork all around and photographs that remind me. Especially with social media, I find myself being receptive to the perspective of others. Capturing an essence in a photo or piece of art. I know for me; I want to feel what that art provides. The concrete buildings and busy cars in urbanization do not provide that.
Additionally, I see art as beyond the eye. For me, I am artistic through music. Nature can even be interpreted through song. I play guitar, and I have learned some acoustic pieces that are meant to embody the feeling of being somewhere. I see music as a form of interpretation. In song, the tempo, rhythm, and tune can interpret a feeling, one that goes beyond the eye.
There are so many forms of art, and so many perspectives. Each person sees beauty in different forms, so why would we all interpret it the same? I love to be able to appreciate others art and perspectives of beauty while also pursuing mine through music. Another example is through our bodies. Some cultures may artistically interpret the beauty of nature through dance.
Nonetheless, I see beauty as more than just a pretty sunset. I think the beauty partly comes from the perspective of the interpreter. It is beautiful that people can interpret nature through art, in more than just physical ways. For me, the interpreter's perspective is instilling the desire in me to appreciate things differently. Through paintings, drawings, pottery, dance, song, etc... I feel inspired and uplifted.
Hi Lauren, this post was really well written. I took this prompt in a much more abstract way, focusing on the nature of beauty and how anyone, no matter how bad their opinion is, has a valid interpretation of art, and it is really interesting reading how you interpreted it differently.
As someone who also doesn't create much art, the idea of believing yourself worthy of interpreting or appreciating such a thing can be a difficult thing, but in my opinion, the interpretation of beauty and art is one of the most human things imaginable. I believe that anyone, no matter their experience should look for their own answers when appreciating art of any kind, finding what connects to them and how they appreciate it in their own special way, like how you described your appreciation of Starry Night.
Looking at the gift of beauty as something that can keep interest and give worth to something like nature is a very interesting perspective, and I wonder how true it is. Near my family home, there is an area called the Greenbelt, an area of protected forests, farmland, wetlands, and nature as a whole, and I had the luck of driving through it every day on my way to work this summer. Though those early morning drives weren't the most conducive of a deep appreciation for them, looking back on it, I get a great deal of joy being surrounded by environments like that, and I think if the area became developed like how Premier Doug Ford wanted, I would have lost that short, exciting period of my drive to work. It makes me wonder if Doug Ford doesn't feel that same kind of joy?
Nature through Art and the "Gift of Beauty"
The magic of art is that everyone's interpretation of it is different, but everyone's interpretation is to be valued (even if you think it's wrong). In my eyes, this interpretation of art is what makes art so valuable, as people's perception and admiration for the art and what it means to them far surpasses the value of the painter's name or the artwork itself, no matter how beautiful or complicated. Art is a truly human creation, from the careful hand of a painter, the keen eye of a photographer or movie maker, the creative muse of a musician or writer, and the interpretation and appreciation of these artworks. Who am I to interpret nature through art? I am human.
Art and nature, however, are separate things. In my definition, nature itself cannot be art, as it is not made by a human, but that does not mean it cannot be beautiful. The "gift of beauty" is something that has always entranced me with countless different kinds of things. In my eyes, beauty is not just a word to compliment the appearance of something, but also its inner workings, its complications and mechanisms, and its place in the world. The endlessly complex processes that nature is filled with, the gears and clockwork of a watch, and the radically different solutions life has created to solve the problem that is living, from flora to fauna, are works of wonder and beauty.
Interpretation holds a special place in appreciating this "gift of beauty" in any medium, but especially in nature. While I agree with Harold Ickes' quote on wanting to kill people who interrupt a peaceful contemplation of the wonder of nature and the world, nature interpretation can easily push this appreciation further, though maybe not through the stats and descriptions he complains about (Beck et al., 2018). As the book describes, the most important part of an interpreter's job is to help people better perceive the world around them, helping them understand the cultures of the area, and the past, present, and future of the place they are in (Beck et al., 2018). This is most importantly done creatively and excitingly and interests those who choose to listen so that they can think of things with a different perspective and appreciation than before like art critics are to the art world. Offering an experience that goes beyond the stats and wildlife descriptions, expanding into the stories surrounding the area and how nature itself, utilizing the TORE system, presenting a concept anyone can connect to and opening important conversations towards them are key parts of nature interpretation.
Beck, L., Cable, T. T., & Knudson, D. M. (2018). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage: For A Better World. SAGAMORE Publishing, Sagamore Venture.
Week 3 Blog
What role does “privilege” play in nature interpretation? Please include your working definition of privilege.
In my experience, I have found privilege to be mainly attributed to one’s conditions during their upbringing, or in other words, how they experienced their childhood. I have been privileged enough to grow up in a stable household with a large extended family. I had access to a large yard with exposure to nature, parents who would bring me to conservations areas and parks because they knew from their parents that nature was beneficial to one’s growth and development. I was privileged enough to have access to my parent’s cottage, with 10 acres of forest for me to explore my curiosity and foster my passion for the natural world.
As I got older and started to understand the power of privilege, I felt a need to share these experiences, whether it be by bringing my friends to my family’s cottage and taking them on guided walks through our forested property, or simply pointing out interesting sightings to friends and family who have not had an opportunity to explore that curiosity yet – an Eastern Phoebe nesting on the side of the cottage, a Grey Treefrog tucked into the bark of a tree, Spotted Jewelweed growing in a ditch beside the driveway. Being able to share the things I am curious about is one of my favourite things - it can have a chain reaction of positive events and is so simple to achieve. This mindset of prompting curiosity and growth in ourselves and in our peers I believe is extremely important in order to become not just a good nature interpreter, but the best version of ourselves.
Without having the privilege I was very fortunate to be born into, I am very confident that I would not be fascinated with the natural world in the same way that I am today. Giving children an opportunity to interact with nature and foster their curiosity is one of the ultimate privileges. I am very grateful to have a very large variety of connections and meaningful mentors that have been created, ultimately, by my upbringing. My parents helped me to learn how to make valuable connections which has aided tremendously in my career and personal life. I am also fortunate that I have had a lot of female mentors in this field, as this definitely wasn’t the case even twenty years ago. This shift in gender composition in the field of wildlife and conservation is fairly recent and ongoing, but because it is happening actively, I feel more comfortable in that space and role. In that sense, we are privileged on a temporal scale, in that we are living in a time when there is more gender and racial equality than in the past. I am forever thankful for the privilege I have been exposed to because it has allowed me to find my “calling” relatively easily, and it awarded me the tools I needed in order to share this with others and succeed in this field.
Here, an Eastern Milkshake I showed to some curious kids at my job last summer working at Prince Edward Point Bird Observatory.
It was exciting reading about your point of view on this topic. Privilege is something that I think affects us all differently, and it is exciting to read about other people's opinions on it, especially when they come from a different walk of life than myself. Even with those differences, I can still relate to the large, connected family and the trips to the cottage. While I didn't have a cottage myself, I can connect this to my experience going to camp and being surrounded by forest on every side, giving me a deep appreciation for nature and what it provides. How you described seeing all those different animals especially connected with me, as I felt and still do feel that same excitement whenever I see an animal in the wild. I feel like nature is something everyone can enjoy and learn to appreciate, even through the differences in possible experiences provided by different kinds of privilege. I think children's reactions to nature showcase this. Though I cannot relate to the female aspect of the story, I can agree with the noticeable gender shift in biology and nature interpretation and am excited to see where it goes. Growing up watching animal media on TV like Steve Irwin, the Kratz brothers, and others, it will be exciting to see a new perspective and new ideas on how to connect with people about nature and show them how important it is in our daily lives.
Privilege in Nature Interpretation
Privilege is an important topic of discussion I have had to work through throughout my academic career and life in general, as a cis-gendered, upper-middle-class white male born in Canada. From what I understand and have been taught, privilege is something you are given or earn through many different means. Some forms of privilege are given when you are born and through things you cannot control, like where you are born, what race you are, how rich your parents or extended family are, who your parents or extended family are, etc. Some forms of privilege are earned, such as having and continuing a relationship with someone for a long time, working at a job for a long time or being early in the company's history, or dedicating a portion of your life to studying something specific.
© Boca Tutor / Wikimedia Commons / CC-BY-SA-3.0 / GFDL
In the case of nature interpretation, and especially when speaking on things like "unpacking your invisible backpack," the privilege in focus is the kind of privilege that is given without effort from the person. In my case, my interest in animals started because my parents could afford the animal encyclopedias, the toys, and the books that would keep and nurture my interest in the topic. My family were able to afford to take me to the zoo to see the animals I had read so much about and have my interest flourish even more. The greatest privilege I had was being sent to summer camp, in which my appreciation of nature and the deep connection and joy of nature interpretation was sparked. I had the privilege of being able to afford going to camp for a month for my councillor training and to not need to work a summer job when I spent my entire summer making barely any money at the summer camp I had dedicated so much of my childhood and my parent's money towards. My family has helped me pay for university, a meal plan and residence in my first year, rent and food in the years following. I was able to achieve all of this because of the jobs my parents and my grandparents worked and the money they earned, saved up, and were gracious enough to spend on me.
To talk about privilege in nature interpretation as a whole, these same patterns could be followed. Luckily, nature is an interest that can be nurtured by the simple beauty of the world and just by going outside. Still, I can acknowledge that my experiences and my privilege have given me greater opportunities than those who don't have that privilege. Careers in nature interpretation can be gatekept on education and experience, specific equipment or tools, and the ability to travel. Not everyone can afford these. Though I don't know many examples, I am also sure some form of nepotism can be found in nature interpretation (I would never speak badly of their name but the Irwins are an example), adding a completely different layer of privilege. This is all ignoring potential racism in every step of the way, limiting others from achieving the same as their white counterparts because of things they have no control of.
Unit 02 Blog Post
My ideal role as a nature interpreter would be sharing the aspects of nature that are personally important to me and incorporating my passions into my work. One of the main focuses of nature interpretation is conveying a captivating topic to audiences. I find that the most captivating lectures I attend are delivered by those who clearly care deeply about their research and what they are teaching. I imagine this is difficult to accomplish fully, since it’s not easy taking the ‘job’ aspect out of being an interpreter. Despite this, a topic you are interested in learning can alleviate this small problem.
I have a strong interest in entomology and would love to be able to experience the handling of exotic insect species. My ideal location would be at a conservatory or zoo, similar to the Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory or the Victoria Bug Zoo. Incorporating Genius loci into sites like these would be interesting due to their unique characteristics unlike those of national parks and conservation areas. While a museum/zoo site may have been built on land with rich cultural history of its own, it also gives us the opportunity to touch on the architectural and geographical details of each exhibit. Incorporating pressing issues such as endangered species and climate change into interpretation would be important to me as it is usually at the forefront of my studies. When many think of wildlife rehabilitation, I feel that they are generally more drawn to mammalian or bird species. I imagine this is due to their similarities to house pets and how we perceive ‘cuteness’ and empathy. This can even be seen among insects, with the beloved monarch butterflies and honeybee’s gaining large amounts of traction for their endangerment. Yet it seems that the critically endangered burying beetle – more of a creepy crawly, has seen much less traction!
Communicating with a wide array of audiences can be challenging, but I would like to interact with a diverse audience to educate a wide array of people. Receiving feedback from such a range is valuable for interpreters as the discussion of difficult issues can arise. This is just one of the many communicative skills needed as a nature interpreter. While dealing with children is an important skill, understanding how people of all ages learn and process information is an important aspect of interpretation. Working in a conservatory or zoo would require the application of Piaget’s cognitive development stages through sensory activities, concentrated ideas, direct experiences, and problem solving for children and youths. Anatomical diagrams of certain insects, sensory activities through dirt, rocks, and sand, life cycle outlines, and common bugs children may have already come across are some examples of application. For all audiences, the theory of multiple intelligences is also something I find very interesting and would love to incorporate into my work. I understand how frustrating it can be to have trouble comprehending certain concepts when you have yet to learn your specific learning style. Engagement in various styles is the best method for people of any age or background to actively participate and learn.
I really enjoyed reading through your response to this question, it's really interesting seeing all the different kinds of positions and jobs people in this class aspire to achieve.
Your point on listening to passionate people speak on their topic of choice clicked with me too. I really enjoy hearing people speak about what their specific interest is, whether it is animals or a whole different kind of topic like trains or different mechanisms and interesting math tidbits because I feel like no matter what the topic is, their passion and excitement about that topic supersedes whatever idea I had about the topic before. Their love of the topic becomes infectious and I begin to understand why they find this specific niche topic so interesting to them. Facts stick with me for longer, I look at things differently in my life and I can use their interests to compare and contrast whatever I'm looking to try and understand in my daily life.
Something I liked that you brought up was the cultural and historical aspect of working somewhere like the Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory, adding that into your information and presentation, mixing it into whatever topic you are interpreting and finding connections between them. I think this is a really interesting idea and I feel like would really give an audience a much deeper appreciation of not just what they are looking at or the attraction in the building or area, but an appreciation of the building or area itself. I think incorporating this kind of thing would also provide a greater perspective on how and why things work like how they do and what kind of role the attraction they're visiting and the role they themselves play in the story of the area and nature itself.
My Ideal Interpretation Role
Ever since I was a kid and went to the zoo for the first time (shout out to the Edmonton Valley Zoo), I have always admired the zookeepers or volunteers who stand near their animal exhibit and explain all the different facts and interesting tidbits about whatever animal they are holding or interacting with. I was especially jealous of the ones who got to do shows with the animals, watching people interact with animals I could only dream of interacting with and read about for years with ease, teaching the audience about their elephant friends or showing the cool tricks their dolphins can do while teaching about their anatomy, brains, and how we need to protect their environments with all the effort we can muster. This is the kind of nature interpreter I want to be.
Most recently, I had a chance to go to the Toronto Zoo with the Guelph Wildlife Club, and while there, we got a private showcase on how they train the hyenas. Now, when I was younger, I was huge into lions, and I was taught hyenas would bully lions and steal their food. Mix that with The Lion King's betrayal of them, their intimidating appearance, and that creepy "laugh" they make, I had my prejudices going into it. The thing that amazed me though, was that as our guide taught through how she and the other zookeepers trained the hyenas, what they feed them, and some common misconceptions (like how lions actually steal more from hyenas than the other way around), she spoke about them with such care and admiration that I began to feel it too. My opinion on hyenas has switched, and while I still have my apprehensions, I have a newfound respect for them. This ability to convince people to care about animals as much as I do just by showing them how incredible the animals truly are with facts and small shows is exactly what I aspire to, it's my dream career. To work at a zoo and teach people about all the different animals that inhabit this earth, from the smallest seahorses to the biggest of elephants, and especially if I could teach about orangutans, that would be my ideal position as an environmental interpreter.
Skill-wise, this kind of thing takes confidence, showmanship, and a lot of knowledge about and trust in the animals you're showing off and teaching about. The ability to shape your information and facts to whoever is learning from you, change your presentation to fit the audience's interests and keep them engaged takes a lot of training, but when you get good at it, it really shows through. I always find it so much more engaging when I can tell the person is talking about something, whether it is an animal, a plant, an interesting fact about nature, or a cause that they clearly and passionately care about, and emphasizing this and using that energy and excitability you have about whatever topic you're presenting really pushes the show you are putting on over the edge.
Blog Post #1
My current relationship with nature is a mixture of peace and warmth because those are the feelings invoked when I spend time outside. I like to stay busy because relaxing or “winding down” is not something I enjoy except when I'm going to bed. I started going on walks after my mother encouraged me to find an outlet for my stress and as a great way to look after my health. I initially resisted these walks because I felt like it was a “waste of time” and that I would much rather do a quick 30-minute workout than an hour-long walk every day. I found myself contemplating what tasks I could do while on these walks. I took a course in my first year called BIOL 1070 which required going on nature walks throughout the semester and making 5 entries about the different types of animals we saw, as well as any sightings that piqued our interest. I finally felt that I had a reason to go out on these walks and they would not be such a big waste of time anymore. I also had a family member in the hospital at the time so I did not have much time to venture outside more and try to give well-thought-out journal entries with a variety of wildlife. I would often sit outside the hospital which was surrounded by greenery and a forest a little bit farther down, and try to take photos as well as analyze the different squirrels, chipmunks and even different birds that I found interesting. As I wrote out my journal entries and reflected on my adventures, I realized that I think I found my walks boring because I walked around my neighborhood and the busy intersections were overwhelming, especially during rush hour. I started taking walks near a forest where I enjoyed the calm and peace because I could be alone with my thoughts and I was also able to analyze my surroundings and try to understand more about the wildlife around me. I used to travel further down to Lakeshore and go on walks there because they have such beautiful sceneries and wildlife ( I particularly enjoy their sunsets!). I started taking photos of what I found most beautiful in nature because I wanted others to enjoy them as well, which is when I found photography as a great hobby and when combined with my newfound love for nature, became a great outlet for my stress. I would say my mom is my sense of place because she encouraged me to get outside more and start going on walks because she found peace on walks as well. Although she is not particularly fond of wildlife, she has loved coming with me to watch sunsets and to view different sceneries that I would describe as “The most beautiful pictures nature could give us”. She has always been my strength and I think that I feel the same way about nature as I feel about her, warm and somewhere I can find peace.
I really enjoyed reading about your experience with nature, and I can especially get that initial adverse reaction with getting into something that can easily be seen as useless or just a waste of time. I have trouble getting outside as much as I want to because I feel like I always find myself doing something more immediately entertaining instead of the more peaceful, probably more healthy approach of a nice walk through nature and a chance to see what kind of wildlife I can spot, but whenever I do, I almost always enjoy it more. I am especially excited for when it starts snowing, because I always find that walking through the forest when its draped in snow, the quiet, peacefulness of it really hits me and I find it really easy to enjoy.
This year, I plan on trying to force myself to enjoy the wonder of nature more, even if it isn't through a perfect, snowy forest. I think it will help me get through classes and the stress they bring on in a healthier, more mindful way, hopefully achieving that same peace and calmness that you found walking near the forest and down Lakeshore. I think finding a way to slow my brain down and enjoy the things around me, giving me a chance to plan my day instead of getting overwhelmed by the seemingly countless due dates and quizzes I need to get done will really help me in the long run (and hopefully help me stop leaving things to the last minute).
