Let us be
protectors of creation, protectors of God’s plan inscribed in nature,
protectors of one another and of the environment. ~Pope Francis
Time. Where did it all go? How can we slow it down? These commonly asked
questions apply especially to me as I complete my 11-month studies for my
Master’s degree at Merry Lea Environmental Learning Center of Goshen
College. As I think back 11 months ago,
this day seemed far into the future, with many hurdles to cross. But here I am
on the other side reflecting now with bittersweet memories. Commencing
with the classes I’ve completed, countless students I’ve taught, and the
wonderful people I’ve met, it’s been a magnificent experience I wouldn’t trade
for anything! It hasn’t always been an
easy road. Like most of life it has been filled with ups and downs, adventures,
struggles and countless growing opportunities. However, I do acknowledge God
has changed my life forever!
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| Helping with bird banding at Merry Lea this past summer. |
Over
this past year I have had many magnificent opportunities. I was
privileged to work in Ligonier, Indiana with an after school program teaching
students all about decomposition/ life cycles and planting seeds. By
starting worm compost, students’ horizons were piqued in getting their hands
dirty, with interest in the environment further motivated. My
month long stay on beautiful Andros Island, Bahamas provided me the opportunity
to learn from students as well as the privilege to teach them concerning the mangrove forests, ‘blue hole’
ecosystems, and the significant roles they have on their environment.
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| Exploring and teaching on Andros Island, Bahamas. |
As an environmental educator, it is
important to build relationships in order to connect with people and accompany
wherever they are in life. Learning is a lifelong process and individuals
must make small changes in their particular lives before large drastic changes
can occur. Environmental education encompasses
more than teaching people concerning the environment; it is educating people on
their role in the environment and what they can do on a personal level. Starting with … “Where does your food come from?” “How does the environment influence our daily
lives?” “How are we assisting or harming?” “What am I demonstrating to my
children or grandchildren concerning being an environmental steward?”
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| Some of my graduate cohort this year who have become like family to me! |
So
let me leave you with this question, what does environmental education mean to
you? Certainly none of this would have been
possible without your various acts of kindness, prayer and support through this
past year. The presence of God and
each of you was evident daily. For that I am most appreciative and humbled.
I will be back in Missouri for a short week visit June 30th- July 6th. I would love to discuss this more with you in
person, and can’t wait to see you all. Have a wonderful summer and may you have much
success with the BBQ! … Kaitlyn
Winters Bradley, MA Environmental Education
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