Let's talk sea turtle...

There are many causes for us to support. I of course am the first person to say it is up to us to choose what we want to get behind. When it comes to animals I like to support WSPA, WWF and the Humane Society International.

Whether you are an animal lover or not the importance of preserving the diversity of species and especially endangered species on our planet rests with the decisions we make as human beings.

Do what what you can

Our means of support and ability to commit to helping varies. For some simply having the conversation is enough. For others donating money is the next step. And for a few courageous and dedicated individuals we lead by example through our actions. I respect that our level of contribution is a personal choice in the context of our means, capacity and juggling of other causes we take up.

Take a step

So I invite you to take a step in a direction that works for you and at least have the conversation. I ask you to consider the plight of the leatherback turtle as an example of the difference we can make towards this planet. The closest that you have come to a sea turtle may have been an amusement park or zoo. To actually see them in their natural habitat changes your perspective forever.

Surfing with sea turtles

My own personal encounter was with the pacific green sea turtle while visiting Hawaii. I was learning to surf and worried that I would run into sharks or put my foot down on the reef. Instead I kept seeing curious turtles popping up in the surf (ok tiny little swells - I was learning!).

Then it was on my walks along the deserted beach that I had my encounters with the resting turtles. They were maginicent the way that they came ashore to relax and then headed back out in the water to feed off the reef. It was a beautiful example of man and animal living together without disturbing each other.

What the sea turtle taught me

In my reflective visit I even learned alot just considering the life of the sea turtle. They swim out in the ocean, no effort whatsoever, feeding off the reefs as needed. Then knowing when it is time to rest head on shore to take a break. Interestingly for them to get to the rest spot and stop takes a bit of effort. But they are smart. When ready to go back in they head back to the water and also wait for the water to meet them. We could learn a few lessons about rest in our busy lives from a sea turtle! But amazingly conversations can be just like the journey of the sea turtle.

Learn more

So take a moment to learn more about the leatherback sea turtle. Perhaps even watch the conservation video to see what is being done in conjunction with local pacific island communities to preserve this species. Then consider what you can do.

Alternatively check out the websites of WWF, WSPA and The Humane Society International if interested.

I welcome your feedback and any other sharing of suggestions for going there in the conversation about conservation of animals.

Remember conversation and conservation are closer than you think, just a reordering of the letters.