The next generation
Young goslings and ducklings are now on their own, swimming about in the lakes and ponds apart from their mothers. Canada geese and wood duck mothers still swim along with their young, but more and more are allowing the next generation to find their way. The young common and hooded mergansers are still fluffy and small. The young wood ducks appear as miniatures of their mother.
Tiny toads and silver-dollar sized turtles are out and about, without the leadership of parents to find their way. Adult garter snakes were abundant around the ponds, taking advantage of the easy protein of the young toads that were new to dry land.
The next generations are finding their way. As parents, we try to model for our children how to be successful, hoping that they will have meaningful lives that are enjoyable to them. My oldest child has less than 500 days now until she is 18 years old, the age society considers our young to be adults. To imagine how challenging it must be for a toad, turtle, or young snake to find its way without parental help.
I am encouraged by the maturity of my children and their love for the environment.
Earlier this week I met a group of young scientists who encouraged me with their interest in the environment, specifically fish ecology. They were visiting our local state fish hatchery and learning about Michigan's Arctic Grayling Initiative. They will be the ones to carry on the work of inspiring future generations to care for our planet. They will be the professors and teachers of our children in colleges and agencies around the world.
As seasons change and time continues, may we always be people of compassion, kindness, love for our world and those who are finding their way in life's journey.
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