Moments of beauty begin to braid your days. John O’Donohue

This week’s inspiration comes from two writing friends who remind me that finding beauty is essential in our lives. 

The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated.” – Mahatma Gandhi

Two experiences reminded me recently that the fight for the protection of elephants and the health of our planet is ongoing. One reminded me of past trauma, the other foreshadowed more horror in the near future.

The pastoralist Samburu people of Northern Kenya believe elephants were once people. Their oral tradition tells the story of how they became the ancestors of the elephant.

Where will we go for healing when wildlife and wild places no longer exist? Katie Rowe Co-Founder Reteti Elephant Sanctuary

Cuteness may be hard to describe, but you know it when you see it. 

I meant what I said and I said what I meant. An elephant's faithful one-hundred percent! Dr. Seuss

May the new year bring you opportunities filled with joy, love and connection. Nature is an endless resource showing us all that is good, true and beautiful in the world. Let’s take care of each other and our planet in 2025!

Wishing you a joyous holiday season filled with love, laughter, and the beauty of nature.

As we approach the longest night of the year, take comfort in the quiet, the darkness. Enjoy the restorative place of simply being and let go of doing.

“What shall we look for today Kupai?” I asked as I climbed into the Land Cruiser in the predawn light. “Let’s go on a lion hunt!” said Kupai with a grin. “Yes! Let’s go!” I replied, eager for the day’s adventure.

Daughters for Earth invites you to our virtual event - A DISCUSSION WITH WOMEN HOLDING THE FRONTLINES OF CLIMATE CHANGE - where we'll hear from extraordinary women at the forefront of climate action. These inspiring leaders will share their knowledge, experiences, and vision for a sustainable future.

Baby elephants have a monopoly on cuteness. Read the full story about how this newborn calf entertained us with its antics.

There is no reconciliation without truth. Murray Sinclair

Look and think before opening the shutter. The heart and mind are the true lens of the camera.

Yousuf Karsh

Skunked: a fishing trip where no fish were caught. Not one bear sighting. What if the salmon never showed up?

The ends of the hairs on grizzly bears’ flanks, backs and shoulders often have white tips and give the bears a “grizzled” appearance, hence the species’ name.

Grizzlies are great swimmers. They are also fast, they can sprint faster than 55 kph. Take note - a grizzly will easily outrun, outclimb, and outswim you - so don’t swim with bears!

Indigenous people have co-existed with bears for thousands of years. At the core the bear represents courage and strength. The bear is seen as protector and healer.

Dawson turned off the motor and we drifted closer. No doubt about it, the bear knew we were there. He slipped into the water, raised his head as if to say hello, then proceeded about his business of looking for fish. We followed along at a respectful distance.

Stay calm, be brave, wait for the signs. Tom King, Dead Dog Café Radio Show sign off. Day 1: Notes from Bear Camp.