When Nature Comes Knocking

by Mandy Liddle

At some point in our lives, we may have been asked the question, “Where were you when…?”  There are certain dates in history that are never forgotten, and depending on your age, it may have been the landmark day on July 20, 1969 when the first man landed on the moon or that fateful September 11th morning, 2001 where we watched in disbelief as our homeland was tragically attacked.  No matter the event, whether tragic or triumphant, many of us recall what we were doing and where we were when we received the news.  One noteworthy date in history, April 22, 1970 may not be as familiar to many, however to me, it is of great significance.  As far as my whereabouts and memories on this turning point date in history, it’s hard for me to say.  You see, I was only nine days old at the time.  Little did I know that this day, the first official observance of Earth Day, would become not only an annual celebration, but my life’s work.

I try to recall when it all started.  As far back as I can remember my nose was always to the ground, watching the ants and the spiders as they scurried about their business throughout the day.  There were always butterflies to chase and birds to identify in the backyard bird feeder and who could forget all the orphaned or injured animals we nursed back to health.  There was never a short supply of things to do outside, whether it was catching snakes or fireflies, watching wildflowers bloom or having leaf races down the road at the local stream.  No matter what the activity, one thing was for sure.  I was hooked on nature!  I had always wondered if my connection to nature was taught by my parents, or if it came from within.  I have concluded that it is both.  I will always appreciate my parents’ influence and it thrills me today that my passion for nature continues to run deep.

When it came time for college, my direction was quite clear.  I pursued a bachelor’s degree in fisheries and wildlife biology, a perfect fit.  Once college was complete, I entered the workforce with all intentions of saving the world.  Although many of my jobs were fascinating, including 2 trips to Alaska and caring for the chimpanzees at the Detroit Zoo, I quickly found that something was missing.  As I looked around, I found that so many people, in particular children, did not see this glorious Earth as I did.  They did not know about the birds and the trees, nor did they notice the sunset or the unique smells in the air as the seasons changed.  It was then that I knew what I needed to do.  I quickly changed careers and began what I felt is my purpose for being here.  I became a naturalist, simply put, a nature teacher.  To say I love my job is an understatement.  What greater job is there than teaching children curiosity and respect for their natural world that exists right outside the back door?  Worms, insects, flowers, trees, and birds abound!  All free for the senses to appreciate!  And let’s not forget the interconnectedness that we all share with this planet.  If not our children to care for the welfare of our mother Earth, then who will?

As a teacher and an aunt, I have already begun my work with my wonderful nieces and nephews.  They have been given their bug houses, magnifying glasses, binoculars, or nature guides in hopes of opening a door to a world that is like no other; a world that does not exist on TV, in books or on the computer.  One where you can get your hands slimy, your shoes muddy or your mind filled with awe and inspiration at the miracle of life that surrounds you.  My greatest anticipation is teaching my own child of these wonders, something I will be able to do very soon, as I am expecting my first child this August.

For many of you, an appreciation of nature may already be a way of life; others, perhaps not.  As for me, my door to the natural world has always been open and I will continue my journey forward as an ambassador of our magnificent mother Earth.  As we approach another celebration of Earth Day on April 22, where will you be and what will you be doing?  Will you be there to answer the door, when nature comes knocking?

Mandy Liddle is a naturalist and certified science teacher living in the lovely, rolling hills of Clarkston, Michigan with her husband and numerous pets.  She spends her free time hiking, taking nature photographs and enjoying all the free gifts nature has to offer.  She can be reached by email at skellymoon@yahoo.com