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Hey Natalie!

I really enjoyed reading your final blog post! Your reflection on nature interpretation and ethics was incredibly thoughtful, beautifully written, and inspiring - you did a great job at emphasizing the main principles of this course!

Your discussion on community engagement is so important and relevant - now more than ever. I find that its become increasingly common for people to feel helpless in the face of environmental issues, falling into the unfortunate and false belief that their efforts - as small as planting native plant species or reducing food waste - don’t have a meaningful impact. However, through community engagement individuals can see the collective impact and effectiveness of their individual actions. In other words, community engagement makes each individuals impact visible, reinforcing the idea that change is possible. In addition, community engagement transforms passive learning into active participation. When people work together - whether it be by participating in clean-up events, restoring habitats, or sharing knowledge - they reinforce a culture of conservation that extends beyond individual actions, and experience firsthand how their actions contribute to a larger environmental movement. Not only does this build a sense of empowerment at the level of the individual, but it fosters long-term commitment to conserving our planet.

Another aspect of your post that stood out to me was the emphasis on accessibility and inclusion in nature interpretation. This is something I have grown increasingly passionate about as Ive come to realize that many people feel disconnected from nature due to lack of exposure and representation. Not everyone has the opportunity, or rather the privilege, of experiencing the outdoors in the same way - and as nature interpreters, we have a responsibility to bridge that gap. I really appreciate how your blog post highlights the importance of meeting people where they are; adapting interpretative strategies to different audiences; and ensuring that nature interpretation is accessible to all. 

The idea that interpretation is a lifelong learning process is such a crucial aspect of fostering deep and lasting connections with nature - as true environmental understanding and appreciation develops over time through repeated exposure, reflection, and engagement. This perspective is particularly meaningful because just like us, nature itself is always changing - seasons shift, landscapes evolve, and wildlife behaviour alters throughout the year. A child who visits a conservation area in the spring to see blooming wildflowers may return in the fall to observe migrating birds - gradually building a more comprehensive understanding of the environment, as well as a deeper connection with nature. Furthermore, lifelong learning through nature interpretation ensures a sustained sense of environmental responsibility. When people regularly engage with nature, they become increasingly invested in its well-being - they may begin to notice changes in their local environment, develop a stronger sense of place, and feel a greater responsibility to protect landscapes they’ve grown to care about. 

Thank you for your insightful perspective, again it was beautiful! Reading these final blog posts has brought me so much hope for our planet - knowing that there are passionate individuals committed to fostering deeper connections with nature and inspiring positive change. Its so reassuring to see with my own eyes how interpretation can ignite curiosity, encourage stewardship, and empower individuals to take meaningful action. Wishing you nothing but the best in the future! 

-Serena :)

My Personal Ethic as a Nature Interpreter

My connection to nature comes from the small, quiet, moments in my everyday life. The warmth of a  summer breeze after a long, tiring day, or the cheerful chirping of birds outside my window in the morning—these simple experiences make me feel alive, and nature has always been embedded in those fleeting, trivial moments. 

As I’ve said before, my role in nature interpretation extends beyond simply sharing information. Nature interpretation is about promoting connections between people and the environment, encouraging sustainable action, and ensuring that diverse audiences feel included in these experiences. My beliefs, responsibilities, and approaches as an interpreter are shaped by my values and the guiding principles outlined in our textbook, which emphasizes the importance of paying attention to learning styles and finding ways to incorporate these for diverse audiences (Beck et al., 2018).

My Beliefs as an Interpreter

One of my foundational beliefs is that nature interpretation should be immersive, engaging, and deeply meaningful. I believe that authentic experiences in nature have the power to inspire awe and a sense of responsibility. As stated by Beck et al. (2018), "experiences of awe occur precisely in the authentic settings where interpreters work.” This highlights the importance of ensuring that interpretive efforts remain grounded in real, tangible connections to the environment.

Additionally, I believe that interpretation should be accessible and inclusive. Taking diversity into account is crucial for success, as different cultures, abilities, and perspectives shape how people relate to nature (Beck et al., 2018). Thus, as an interpreter, I must acknowledge these differences to create meaningful experiences for all visitors.

Finally, I believe that interpretation is a lifelong learning process, and visitors should have opportunities to continuously engage with nature over time. The concept of "lifetime learning curricula" from our textbook reinforces that interpretive sites should aim to be repeat destinations, encouraging people to return and deepen their understanding (Beck et al., 2018). It should be a place that one never forgets, and the interpreter in charge is the most important aspect in attaining this goal. 

My Responsibilities in Interpretation

Nature interpreters have a set of important responsibilities that shape their work, and in this section, I will outline the key duties that I believe are essential in guiding my development as an interpreter. First, helping the audience build lasting connections through authenticity is crucial in ensuring the success of an interpretive program. Authenticity is the defining aspect of any interpretive site, whether leading a guided hike, or designing an exhibit, an interpreter must ensure that my presentations remain true to the ecological, historical, and cultural integrity of a place (Beck et al., 2018). Authentic experiences cultivate trust and allow visitors to gain genuine connections with nature (Beck et al., 2018).

Second, I believe as an interpreter, we have a large responsibility to encourage public advocacy (Beck et al., 2018). Sharing the work of conservation groups, highlighting pressing environmental issues, and inspiring visitors to take action, is essential. This could involve promoting citizen science projects, encouraging ethical wildlife interactions, or discussing ways to support local conservation efforts. Ultimately, interpretation is the foundation for developing deep connections with nature, and once this is accomplished, public advocacy is the next most important thing to encourage citizen engagement and inspire real change regarding environmental conservation and sustainability efforts. 

Lastly, something that I strongly believe in is education through interpretation. As Beck et al. (2018) mentions, the next generation's involvement with nature doesn’t begin in adulthood, but rather during early-to-middle childhood. This means as an interpreter, my responsibility includes creating engaging, age-appropriate programs that inspire young learners to appreciate nature. By integrating hands-on experiences, storytelling, and interactive activities, I can ensure that children build positive relationships with the environment from a young age. This early connection fosters a lifelong appreciation for nature, encouraging future generations to become informed advocates and responsible stewards of the environment.

My Personal Approach to Interpretation

While there are many ways to approach interpretation, I find that certain strategies align best with my strengths and personal style. First, appealing to emotion is one of the most effective ways to inspire environmental stewardship (Beck et al., 2018). Rather than overwhelming audiences with facts and figures, I would aim to craft compelling stories that evoke curiosity and empathy. For example, sharing the life story of a migratory bird—its long journey, the threats it faces, and the importance of conservation efforts—can be more impactful than simply stating population statistics. Personally, I find this type of engagement is most effective in encouraging people to reflect upon their own roles in nature, ultimately driving and inspiring tangible change. 

Next, community engagement is something that I think is very important, for the benefit of the agency, the resource, and the online community itself (Beck et al., 2018). As an interpreter, I would hope to create programs that allow for direct community participation, such as habitat restoration projects, local nature walks, and citizen science initiatives. By engaging people in hands-on conservation, I can foster a deeper sense of ownership and responsibility for the environment.

Lastly, an interpreter should understand that not all visitors engage with nature in the same way—some may prefer quiet reflection, while others enjoy interactive, fast-paced experiences. Thus, my approach in interpretation would be adaptive, incorporating varied techniques to ensure accessibility and inclusion. As I mentioned, individuals have different styles of learning, and it is important to create programs that encourage inclusion and have the possibility to reach diverse, multi-generational audiences (Beck et al., 2018). Providing multilingual resources, tactile learning experiences, and alternative presentation methods for different learning styles will be key to making interpretation more effective for different audiences. Interpretation is about inspiring curiosity, engagement, and action—and by creating programs that welcome and resonate with all visitors, we can help cultivate a more environmentally conscious and connected society.

Closing Notes

Developing my personal ethic as a nature interpreter means embracing authenticity, inclusivity, and emotional engagement. As I continue to grow in this field, I will remain committed to creating meaningful connections between people and the natural world, fostering environmental stewardship in both formal and informal settings.

With this, I end this blog—a process that truly has deepened my understanding of nature interpretation and my role within it. Though this may be my final post, my commitment to lifelong learning and sharing the wonders of the natural world will continue. I hope that through these posts, myself and others have inspired each other to seek our own connections with nature, to embrace curiosity, and to advocate for the landscapes and ecosystems that sustain us all.

To close, I leave you with a picture of my dog heavily side-eyeing a mischievous squirrel in my backyard—to remind you that even in the smallest, quietest, everyday moments, there is curiosity and connection to nature waiting to be noticed.

References:

Beck, L., Cable, T.T., Knudson, D.M. (2018). Interpreting Cultural and Natural Heritage: For a Better World. Sagamore Publishing LLC. https://sagamore.vitalsource.com/books/9781571678669

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Hi Maina!

I really enjoyed reading your final blog post - it resonated with me deeply as it reflects my own evolving perspective on nature interpretation. Similar to you, I entered this semester viewing nature interpretation as a means of sharing knowledge, providing information, and educating people about ecosystems; environmental history; and conservation. However, Ive grown my understanding as we have progressed through the course and I now recognize that interpretation goes far beyond delivering facts to an audience; it is about creating personal, meaningful experiences that forge deep emotional connections between people and nature. 

One of the most powerful takeaways from your post is the idea that interpretation is not limited to words. The mention of art and music as interpretative tools was brilliant, because as you discussed, different forms of expression have the potential to evoke emotions and inspire action in ways that words sometimes cannot. I also agree with your stance on thematic and participatory approaches - one of the most memorable experiences in all of my life was my field trip to the pioneer village in elementary school. Although we had learned about pioneer life extensively in class while at school, I really don’t remember much. However - I remember this trip like it was yesterday. We dressed appropriately, were given names of real pioneers who once lived in the village, and sat at the same desks they once sat at. Each of us attending were actively participating and included in this “story” being told that was historically accurate, informative, and educational. We each had a role in this narrative - and it kept us so incredibly engaged. By the end of the day, we had all developed a genuine connection to the people we were portraying, fueling our eagerness to learn and do more. I remember reflecting on and discussing this trip for years - the curiosity it sparked inside of me and my classmates is a testament to just how powerful this approach can be. 

Another aspect of this post that resonated with me was the discussion of human responsibility in nature interpretation. The idea that interpreters must inspire stewardship is something I am deeply passionate about. This responsibility is not just about informing people - it is about awakening a sense of both agency and urgency within them. When people feel connected to something, they are more likely to care for it. Think about it - we naturally care more for our loved ones than for strangers, cherish our personal possessions over things that don’t belong to us, and feel a deeper attachment to buildings or places that hold memories rather than those we’ve never visited. This realization has shaped how I want to approach nature interpretation - I don’t just want to present factual information; I want to spark a sense of wonder, responsibility, and empowerment in all those I engage with. After all, change happens not because people are told what to do, but because they feel deeply compelled to act. 

Too often, the individual feels powerless when faced with environmental issues, falling into the belief that their personal efforts aren’t effective or make any difference. Ive had moments where I felt the same way - wondering if my small actions such as reducing waste, supporting sustainable brands, buying secondhand, or limiting my meat consumption really mattered. But through my own journey, Ive realized that collective action begins with individuals. Every movement, every shift in societal mindset - begins with a single step taken by someone who makes the choice to care. If a nature interpreter can inspire just one person to care about conservation and recognize their interconnectedness with nature, that influence can ripple outward - encouraging others to take effective action as well. 

Overall, your blog post reinforced by belief that nature interpretation is not just about what we teach, but how we inspire. It affirmed my commitment to making interoperation inclusive, engaging, and emotionally resonant. Thank you for your post, again I really enjoyed it! 

-Serena :)

Blog #10: My Approach to Nature Interpretation: Beliefs, Responsibilities, and Methods

Personal Ethics/Beliefs as a Developing Nature Interpreter

My beliefs as a nature interpreter have evolved significantly throughout this course. Initially, I viewed interpretation as sharing information, understanding the history of the environment, conveying facts about ecosystems, species, and conservation efforts. However, I have come to understand that it is much more than that. Nature interpretation is a powerful tool for fostering a deeper connection between people and the natural world. Through this realization, I have developed the ability to effectively and confidently communicate my interpretive experiences in the field, utilizing various forms of communication to engage audiences in meaningful ways.

Interpretation is not just about relaying facts but about provoking thought and emotional connections (Beck et al., 2021, Chapter 1). This perspective has reshaped how I approach my role as an interpreter. Instead of merely presenting information, I now aim to create experiences that resonate with people on a personal level. One of the most transformative realizations I have had is that interpretation is not limited to spoken or written words, it can take many creative forms. Art and music, for instance, can serve as powerful interpretive tools. Not everyone learns best through traditional means, and sometimes, visual art or music conveys a message far more profoundly than words alone.

A mural depicting a once-thriving ecosystem now impacted by climate change can visually communicate the urgency of conservation efforts. Similarly, a piece of music inspired by natural landscapes can stir a deep emotional response, making people more receptive to environmental messages. Being able to see exactly what the artist or musician was imagining is a powerful form of communication, one that transcends language barriers and resonates universally.

Responsibilities as a Nature Interpreter

As an interpreter, I hold the responsibility of cultivating a sense of care, gratitude, and appreciation for the environment. By fostering these values, I create opportunities for meaningful conversations about conservation and sustainability. Effective interpretation should inspire stewardship and action, helping individuals recognize their role in protecting natural and cultural heritage (Beck et al., 2021, Chapter 3). For instance, observing wildlife in their natural habitat, like this buffalo grazing in Yellowstone, reminds us of the delicate balance within ecosystems and our role in preserving them.

One of the biggest challenges in conservation efforts is the widespread feeling of powerlessness, people often believe that their individual actions do not make a significant difference. I see it as my responsibility to challenge this mindset. Many people think, “I’m just one person, what can I really do?” But through effective communication and engagement, I can help them recognize that small actions, when multiplied across communities, lead to significant change. For instance, when individuals learn about the impact of reducing single-use plastics or supporting sustainable businesses, they may be more inclined to make informed decisions that collectively contribute to environmental protection.

Another crucial aspect of my responsibility as an interpreter is ensuring that the knowledge I share is accessible and inclusive. Environmental advocacy should not be limited to those with a scientific background or those already passionate about nature. Instead, it should be made relevant to diverse audiences, meeting them where they are. This is particularly important when interpreting nature for communities that may not have had extensive exposure to environmental education.

Most Suitable Approaches for My Interpretive Style

The most effective interpretive approach for me is one that emphasizes emotional and experiential engagement. Beck, Cable, and Knudson (2018, Chapter 8) highlight the importance of thematic interpretation, where messages are structured around central, meaningful themes rather than isolated facts. By crafting narratives that evoke curiosity and emotional responses, I can create more impactful and memorable experiences for my audience.

For example, rather than simply explaining the ecological significance of wetlands, I might craft a story about a particular animal that depends on this habitat, a heron that returns to the same nesting site each year, only to find its home slowly disappearing due to human encroachment. This approach allows people to form an emotional connection with the subject matter, making them more likely to care about and remember the message.

I also find the participatory approach particularly effective, as it encourages audience involvement, allowing individuals to actively engage with and reflect on their own relationship with nature. This aligns with the textbook’s emphasis on making interpretation relevant and personally meaningful (Beck et al., 2021, Chapter 9). People are more likely to care about environmental advocacy when they see how it directly affects their lives. For instance, someone who has never been interested in conservation may become more engaged when they learn how pollution in their local water supply impacts their health and community.

Research indicates that effective interpretation plays a crucial role in inspiring environmental stewardship by fostering personal connections to nature (Powell et al., 2018). For instance, a study found that interpretive programs can significantly enhance visitor satisfaction and their intentions to revisit, suggesting a deeper engagement with the environment (Powell et al., 2018). Here is the link if you would like to read more!

Additionally, I have come to appreciate the importance of adapting my interpretive methods based on the audience. Younger audiences, for example, may respond best to interactive and hands-on experiences, while older audiences may appreciate storytelling and historical context. Customizing the interpretive experience ensures that messages are more effectively received and retained.

Conclusion

My evolving beliefs and responsibilities as a nature interpreter have deepened my understanding of how to engage audiences in meaningful ways. By emphasizing care, gratitude, and sustainability, and by utilizing participatory and thematic approaches, I can effectively inspire others to appreciate and advocate for the environment. I have learned that interpretation is not merely about transferring knowledge but about creating experiences that foster emotional and intellectual connections.

As Beck, Cable, and Knudson (2018, Chapter 14) assert, the ultimate goal of interpretation is to create lasting connections that lead to action. This principle guides my developing ethical framework as an interpreter. Whether through storytelling, art, music, or interactive engagement, I strive to make environmental advocacy an accessible and compelling movement that inspires individuals to recognize their own power in shaping a more sustainable world.

As this is my final blog post for this course, I want to leave you with one last thought: here’s an infographic highlighting small, everyday actions you can take to help with conservation efforts. After all, even the smallest steps can lead to meaningful change.

How has a personal experience in nature shaped your perspective on conservation, and what role do you think interpretation plays in inspiring change?

References:

Beck, L., Cable, T. T., & Knudson, D. M. (2018). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage: For A Better World. SAGAMORE Publishing, Sagamore Venture.

Powell, R. B., Stern, M. J., Frensley, B. T., & Moore, D. (2018). Identifying and developing effective environmental education programs: A study of interpretation and visitor engagement in national parks. Journal of Environmental Management, 206, 877-888.

University of Bath. (2022, April 13). Climate change: Can one person really make a difference? University of Bath Climate Action Blog.

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My Personal Ethic as a Nature Interpreter

My Ethics and Beliefs 

I strongly believe that humans are meant to serve the plant; that we hold responsibility to protect and sustain the Earth; that our life purpose is to act as a steward of nature. Humans - much like any other species, are part of Earths ecosystem. However, unlike animals and other organisms, we hold the capacity to recognize the impact of our actions on the environment. Humans posses incomparable intelligence, moral reasoning, advanced technology, and the unique ability to understand complex concepts and processes like climate change - leaving us fully equipped to take on the responsibility of caring for the planet. The influence we have on the environment as humans is unparalleled. Thus, we have an internal, moral responsibility to not only mitigate damage, but to also promote conservation and sustainability. 

But in reality – humans have been far more exploitative and harmful than service-oriented. Human activity, including (but not limited to) deforestation, pollution, and climate change suggest that we have taken far more from the earth than we needed or have ever given back. It can be argued that instead of serving the planet, many societies have prioritized economic growth and convenience – often at the expense of nature regardless of the dire consequences. We alone are at fault for the harm done to our planet, and only we have the power to repair it - making it our fundamental responsibility as human beings while living on earth. 

Accessibility and inclusion are also incredibly important, as both ensure that everyone is able to engage with the natural world; obtain meaningful experiences within environments; and develop a deep connection with nature in which promotes effective environmental action. Diversity is crucial as different cultures and communities have unique perspectives, levels of understanding, and ways of relating with nature. Thus, inclusive interpretation recognizes and incorporates diverse perspectives - creating a richer, more meaningful experience for all those participating. The textbook states that nature interpretation should go beyond providing information; it should inspire and encourage individuals to value and conserve both cultural and natural heritage (Beck et al., 2018). Furthermore, the more people feel connected to nature, the more likely the earth is cared for and protected. Inclusivity broadens and diversifies the community of environmental stewards, allowing for a variety of perspectives, alternative approaches, and widespread environmental effort. Overall, I believe that the earth belongs to all of its organisms, and that everyone has the right to experience it.

My Responsibilities 

As I previously discussed, I believe that everyone deserves access to the natural world, nature interpretation, and environmental education. However, many people face obstacles that prevent them from experiencing nature - such as physical disabilities, financial insecurity, language barriers, lack of transportation, unfamiliarity, or simply feeling unwelcome within natural spaces. According to the textbook, nature interpretation should embrace inclusivity and represent a variety of worldviews and cultural perspectives (Beck et al., 2018). However, these aforementioned challenges restrict diverse groups of people from engaging with nature - ultimately limiting human interpretation of the natural world. Thus, I firmly believe that nature interpreters have a crucial responsibility to not only address these issues, but to also minimize - or ideally eliminate - any potential obstacles that could exclude marginalized communities and minority groups.

Furthermore, I believe that everyone deserves to be understood and respected. As we’ve learned, different people learn information in drastically different ways. Inclusive interpretation not only avoids barriers such the use of complex language and scientific jargon, unrelateable content, and inaccessible trails - but it also embraces various teaching styles. The use of diverse teaching methods (such as hands-on activities, visual aids, open discussions, etc.) enables nature interpreters to effectively adapt to their audience’s needs and enhance engagement. By prioritizing inclusivity and accessibility, nature interpretation becomes a more impactful tool for education, connection, and conservation - allowing everyone the opportunity to build a meaningful relationship with the world. 

Environmental stewardship is not just about protecting nature - it involves ensuring the health of our planet for future generations of all living organisms; it is about ensuring the longevity of the Earths natural resources; it is about effective, long-term action. I’ve noticed that the unfortunate mindset of “not being able to evoke change” as an individual person within our large society and wide world has become incredibly common – especially as circumstances worsen. The textbook highlights how important it is to teach others that their personal mindset, behaviour, and actions can actively contribute to climate change, either as a source or solution (Beck et al. 2018). Thus I believe that nature interpreters have the vital responsibility of inspiring stewardship not only in the individual, but in communities. Through doing so, nature interpreters transform passive observers - or in other words nature appreciators - into active protectors, or rather environmental stewards that serve to conserve and sustain the planet. Doing so on a community-scale will not only result in social unification, but will also significantly increase the effectiveness of each individuals conservation efforts . As the saying goes - there is strength in numbers.

My Approaches 

As the textbook explains, nature interpreters face the challenge of not only capturing but sustaining their audiences attention (Beck et al., 2018). Storytelling is one of the most effective ways to engage an audience as it can be used to transform complex environmental concepts and processes into relatable stories that evoke curiosity, and foster deep, personal connections with nature (Beck et al., 2018). As stated in the textbook, good nature interpretation is not achieved by simply providing facts and information - it involves fostering personal, emotional connections between individuals and the environment (Beck et al., 2018). I think by presenting the audience with questions - similar to how we have been prompted with blog posts over the course of the semester - could further stimulate personal thought; enhance engagement; encourage curiosity; instill interest, passion, or a sense of purpose; foster personal connections; and start important conversations. I can say for certain, that without these blog prompts, I would not have thought as deeply about the material presented throughout this course. Answering questions that are open to interpretation has been incredibly challenging yet so fulfilling - it has refined my character, opinions, actions, and ethics not only as a nature interpreter - but as a person. 

References:

Beck, L., Cable, T. T., & Knudson, D. M. (2018). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage for a better world. Sagamore Publishing.

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Natures Most Amazing Thing

Those who know me well, know that I have always been deeply drawn to the lotus flower (Nelumbo nucifera). Also referred to as the scared lotus, or the Indian lotus - it is a significant symbol across the globe and considered scared in many eastern cultures (McClenaghan, 2022). Not only is the delicate appearance of the lotus flower inherently ethereal, but the blooming process is both beautiful and inspirational. The lotus takes root in muddy waters, growing beneath the surface before rising to reveal its large, elegant blooms. The flowers that emerge are visually beautiful and appear unblemished, despite their fragility and murky surroundings. The first lotus flower was believed to have bloomed between 145.5 million and 65.5 million years ago, meaning the species not only survived the Ice Age but also exemplifies remarkable resilience and endurance. Thus, the lotus flower has a deep-rooted history and has been interpreted by humans for thousands of years.

The lotus flower holds profound spiritual symbolism in many of the world's major religions and philosophical traditions. Spiritual and religious leaders have often associated the lotus flower with prosperity, peace, and longevity - and legends have related the flawless flower to purity and worldly detachment (Ralls, 2023). In Buddhism, the lotus represents the journey towards enlightenment, and acts as a symbol of rebirth and mental purity (Ralls, 2023).

In Hinduism, the lotus flower symbolizes beauty, fertility, prosperity, and eternity (McClenaghan, 2022). It is also a symbol of spiritual enlightenment as it is believed that a lotus flower resides within every Hindu's heart, and that the person achieves enlightenment once their lotus blooms. The lotus is also used as a symbol in the Hindu tantric tradition, where lotuses represent the seven energy centers in the body, or the seven chakras (McClenaghan, 2022). The first chakra, known as the root chakra, is located at the base of the spine and is symbolized by a lotus with only four petals (McClenaghan, 2022). However, the lotus representing the final chakra or the crown chakra, located at the top of the head has one thousand petals - representing the expansion of our ever-growing and evolving soul (McClenaghan, 2022).

The lotus flower symbolized creation, rebirth, and regeneration in ancient Egyptian culture - it was also depicted in used in religious rituals In modern western culture the term "white lotus" is used as a metaphor to express purity, spiritual growth or awakening, and enlightenment (Ralls, 2023).

The significance of the lotus flower extends far beyond spirituality, religion, and science; it serves as an inspiring metaphor for both personal and societal growth. It is a constant reminder that no matter how difficult and dark our circumstances may be, we have the potential to rise above challenges and hardships, remain untainted by surrounding negativity, and bloom into our fullest selves. Regardless of the harsh conditions, the lotus blooms beautifully - representing resilience, perseverance, and inner strength. The flowers' ability to close at night and re-bloom the following morning further serves as a metaphor for the cycle of life, death, and rebirth (McClenaghan, 2022).

References:

Ralls, E. (2023, April 9). Where does the Lotus Flower Grow?. Earth.com. https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/where-does-the-lotus-flower-grow/# 

McClenaghan, L. (2022, September 1). The lotus flower: Meanings, Images & Insights. Floraly. https://www.floraly.com.au/blogs/news/lotus-flower-meanings#:~:text=In%20Hinduism%2C%20the%20lotus%20represents,in%20the%20Hindu%20tantric%20tradition. 

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Hi Jessica!

I really enjoyed reading your blog post, you did an excellent job analyzing the connection between nature and music! I loved reading about your impromptu trip to Algonquin Provincial Park – it sounded like an incredible adventure and must be an amazing memory to have with your friend! I have been dying to go myself, so I understand why the two of you took the opportunity to go – even in the middle of the night! The photo you included is absolutely breathtaking, and the song you mentioned compliments the view so well!

This week’s content made me realize how deep this connection between nature and music really goes. Music truly is everywhere in nature - from the various mating calls different species make and humming sounds of insects flying, to the crashing sounds of ocean waves hitting a rocky shore and the roaring thunder on a stormy night. Furthermore, this week's unit made me question the origin of music, more specifically human-produced music. When did people begin “playing” music, and what “music” were they playing? How did they know how and what to play? Music as we know it today is an art; a language; a theory; an academic subject or study. I can’t help but wonder how it came to be because “music” was once not what it is today. Long ago there was nothing on this earth but nature and humans, so when I really think about it - humans must have been inspired by the sounds produced by the natural environments around them, or by natures music, to create their own. 

Thank you for your post, again I really enjoyed it! :)

The Music of Nature and the Nature of Music 🪕🎶🪵🌲🦦

Music and nature go hand in hand. Whether it’s the way a song reminds us of a certain place or the fact that nature itself is full of music. The two are deeply connected. If you stop and listen when you’re outdoors, you’ll hear rhythms and melodies all around you: birds singing, rivers flowing, wind whistling through the leaves in the trees. At the same time, so much of the music we create is inspired by nature too. It’s in lyrics about mountains and rivers, to actual recordings of nature sounds that are mixed into songs.

Where Is Music in Nature?

Nature has its own kind of music. Birds sing, wolves howl, whales call to each other across the ocean... Even things like rain falling, or the beat of footsteps on a trail have a natural rhythm to them. Even beyond animals, nature itself has a soundtrack. Think about the sound of a river rushing after a storm, the crackle of a campfire, or the way wind creates different whistles and tones as it moves through trees and canyons. If you pay attention, nature is constantly making music.

Where Is Nature in Music?

On the flip side, nature shows up in a lot of the music we listen to. Many songs mention the outdoors. Mountains, forests, and oceans are mentioned a lot, because those places make people feel something. Folk and country music especially love to talk about nature. Some artists take it a step further and actually use nature in their music. I can recall some folk and indie songs that literally begin with birds chirping or dogs barking (Que Poison Root by Alex G).

Indigenous music also has long used nature as both inspiration and a storytelling tool, passing down knowledge about the land through song. It’s a cool reminder that music isn’t just entertainment, it can also be a way to connect with nature and share its stories.

A Song That Brings Me Back to Nature

For me, there are so many songs that instantly take me back to a place in nature. One in particular is Suitcase Full of Sparks by Gregory Allan Isakov. This song reminds me specifically of Centennial Ridges Trail in Algonquin Provincial Park. A friend and I spontaneously drove up there a couple summers ago in the middle of the night. We slept in the back of her jeep (somewhere that we shouldn’t have been, but hey that’s the fun of it). We were able to get started on the trail before sunrise the next morning and we had a little bluetooth speaker with us. The first song we played was Suitcase Full of Sparks. The vibes were so good as the sun rose through the trees and we ate cherry tomatoes from our pockets. We put the song on loop and really took everything in. Now, every time it plays, I can picture the sun reflecting off the lake below us and illuminating the trees as we stopped to eat lunch and take in the view at one of the lookout points along the trail. The way the soft vocals and descriptive lyrics about nature matched the vibes of the hike made it feel like the song and the place belong together.

The view I’m speaking of. Taken by me on July 9, 2022. And the song:

Some other songs that bring me back to nature too:

Wild Horses by the Rolling Stones — Reminds me of driving through the mountains in spring, back when my time in Alberta was coming to a close.

Would That I by Hozier — So many references to nature, trees, willows, fire, ashes, roots, wood.

Where The Skies Are Blue by The Lumineers — Self explanatory. What a tune.

Oysters In My Pocket by Royel Otis — This song gives me deep nostalgia from early last summer when Muskoka came to life again.

Lake Shore Drive by Aliotta Haynes Jeremiah — About driving a beautiful road and taking in the scenery.

Brazil by Declan Mckenna — Rivers and grizzly bears, need I say anything else? 

I Got A Name by Jim Croce — Trust me and listen.

Bobcaygeon by The Tragically Hip — Constellations and Canadian cottage towns. 

Patio Lanterns by Kim Mitchell — Takes me back to warm summer nights by the fire with my dad.

Final Thoughts

Music and nature are way more connected than we might realize. Nature makes its own music, and music helps us connect with nature. Whether it’s birds in the morning, a song that reminds you of a favorite outdoor spot, or an artist blending animal sounds into their beats, the two are definitely always influencing each other. Next time you’re outside, stop and listen! Nature might just be playing a song for you ;)

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Nature Interpretation through Music

"Music can be defined as patterns of sound varying in pitch and time produced for emotional, social, cultural, and cognitive purposes" (Gray et al. 2001). In other words, music is the art of arranging or organizing sound - creating a combination of rhythm(s), harmony, melody, or other expressive content in a way that is eloquent, meaningful, and generally enjoyable. Considering that music is simply intentionally-produced patterns of sound that vary in both pitch and time – it can be argued that music is almost everywhere. 

When it comes to nature, the natural world is rarely - if ever, completely silent. Even in the stillest moments, subtle, low-volume sounds fill landscapes expressing existing life. When considering the question “where is music in nature” I find myself reflecting on a particular walk I took in the evening along a hiking trail in Guelph last summer. I remember that I brought my headphones with me and didn’t use them once because I simply didn’t need to - music followed me every direction I walked in, for almost three consecutive hours. I was so incredibly engaged; I remember hearing the steady beat of a woodpecker hitting its beak on a tree trunk like a drum, the rushing sound of water running down a river, the melodic songs of birds singing at dusk, the leaves rustling gently in the warm wind – it was a symphony. Nature produces music of its own kind; filled with repetition, pattern, rhythm, meoldy, and harmony – much like the songs humans create. 

(Here is a short video I was able to take while out on that walk - don't mind the audio, I was really excited to see the woodpecker lol)

Nature also has its place in human-composed music. Many artists have drawn inspiration from the unique and diverse sounds of nature, with some composers going even further by incorporating or mimicking animal noises and natural sounds directly into their music. Many instruments themselves reproduce the natural sounds found in nature, such as the rain stick in which imitates the sound of rainfall. One song that came to mind almost immediately when reading the question “where is nature in music?” was "Blackbird" by The Beatles. This song not only references a blackbird singing and flying, but it also includes recordings of a blackbird singing in the background. Another example is the song “Several Species of Small Furry Animals Gathered Together in a Cave and Grooving with a Pict” by Pink Floyd, where Roger Waters used a collection of various noises he created with his voice or by other means (such as tapping the microphone) to mimic the sounds of animals in their natural environment. 

A song that immediately takes me back to a natural landscape is "Ahead by a Century" by The Tragically Hip. My dad had this song playing as my family and I were preparing dinner one night while staying at a cottage in Grand Bend, Ontario. We were grilling outside on a campfire, the sun was beginning to set, and the waves were crashing out in the distance. I’m sure that I had heard this song dozens of times before this specific moment – however it was like all past memories associated with this song were wiped away from my mind. It felt as if that song was written for that exact, specific moment in time – and every time I listen to it I can still hear the fire popping as I envision the pink sky and bright, orange sun lowering toward the lakes horizon. 

References:

Gray, Patricia & Krause, Bernie & Atema, Jelle & Payne, Roger & Krumhansl, Carol & Baptista, Luis. (2001). The Music of Nature and the Nature of Music. Science. 291. 52-54

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Hi Serena!

I really enjoyed reading your blog post this week, you did an excellent job analyzing this quote written by Edward Hyams and connecting it back to the textbook readings! 

As we learnt this week in Unit 6, interpretive writing is a critical part of both nature and historical interpretation as language, vocabulary, terminology, and writing structure can alter how an audience understands and interprets information. When we write, we must be mindful of our audiences and consider how they may engage with the information being presented - I certainly agree with you that purpose, intention, and authenticity are fundamental when writing effectively. Writing with purpose improves sentence clarity allowing a diverse group of readers to easily understand the authors intended message - further ensuring that those reading are able to resonate with or relate to the information being presented. The advice you include in your post from Zinsser further emphasizes the significance of precision and honesty over complexity; the assertion that “the essence of writing is re-writing” conveys the importance of revision as a means of refining our thoughts and strengthening our overall message. Authenticity and honesty are crucial when writing, as integrity not only holds merit as Hyams suggests, but it also preserves both personal and collective truth of our world. This perspective on integrity reinforces the necessity of acknowledging the past to truly understand the present day.

As you conclude, writing is not just simply about conveying information, but involves preserving voices, perspectives, and truths for future generations to learn from. 

Thank you again for your post - it was refreshing, compelling, and incredibly interesting to read! Well done :)

- Serena

On the Meaning of Reading (Unit 6)

We read everyday. You’re reading this right now. This morning, you woke up, and read something on your phone, whether it was a text from a friend, a social media post, a news article, or something else. Then you went to school, where you read words on lecture slides or pages from a textbook. 

Reading is everywhere, so much so that we don’t think about it. However, what surprised me when reading the textbook chapters was the level of effort and planning that goes into much of what we read. The rules, the indices, the carefully curated suggestions and step-by-step programs for effective writing. The realization that someone carefully considered and chose all those words I just read on a day-to-day basis without a second thought. 

This revelation has me reconsidering my own writing. Leftridge (2006) makes the excellent point that ‘it’s good to have goals in your interpretive writing’. Having a clear, defined goal will make your writing impactful and help your story resonate with your audience. 

I also found the tips from William Zinsser (2006), who advises writers to keep sentences short and simple, use positive phrases, be specific, use active voice, and generally just try to be as clear and concise as possible. Zinsser said, “The essence of writing is rewrit-ing”, and I believe these tips can be extremely helpful for writers in the editing stage. Initially, just write what you want to write. Then, revise it until you are confident your words say what you want to say. - Serena 2025

Overall, though, I think the most important advice given in Chapter 14 of Interpreting Cultural and Natural Heritage is Zinsser (2006)’s fundamental rule to be yourself when writing. Have the courage and confidence to be authentic. Expanding on this rule, Tilden states, “Whatever is written without enthusiasm, will be read without interest”. If you are true to yourself, you will write about what interests you, and that is your best bet at keeping your audience engaged. Authors have repeated variations of this sentiment through the years: 

"You don't write because you want to say something; you write because you have something to say." - F. Scott Fitzgerald 

If we consider writing as a record of human history, then authenticity becomes paramount. What are we recording if not the authentic voices of past people? What would we know about the tenacity of the human spirit, about love, about living, if great writers throughout time had not experienced these things and been brave enough to express themselves? To express oneself authentically is a form of integrity. As Edward Hyams said in Chapter 7 of The Gift of Interpretation, “There is no peculiar merit in ancient things, but there is merit in integrity”.

 Hymes goes on to describe integrity as a presentation of all the parts of a whole, to recognize the past as part of the whole, part of the process that shapes what stands today. If we choose to ignore the past or selectively focus on only what we want to see, we lose our integrity. We must acknowledge and understand our history and everything that led us here in order to understand and appreciate ourselves, on an individual and on a societal level. 

That is why, in writing, we must write with purpose. We must write with intention. We must write with authenticity. We must preserve our true selves in the written word, our experiences and lessons learned, in order to guide future generations and uphold a clear image of the past. This is important now more than ever, in my opinion, as we go through tumultuous times on a social and political level. 

References: 

Beck, L., Cable, T. T., & Knudson, D. M. (2019). Interpreting Cultural and Natural Heritage. Sagamore-Venture Publishing.

Leftridge, A. (2006). Interpretive Writing. Rowman & Littlefield.

Zinsser, W. (2006). On Writing Well. Harper Paperbacks.

12 Quotes on Writing by F. Scott Fitzgerald. (2021). Writinganalytics.co. https://www.writinganalytics.co/quotes/author/f-scott-fitzgerald/

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Nature Interpretation through History

From my perspective, this quote emphasizes that ancient things are not worthy nor valuable solely because of its old age, but rather due to its individual importance in maintaining both historical continuity and integrity. In other words, relics and things of long ago hold merit as they are an integral part of history; they are necessary or rather required to complete a whole – whether it be a historical event, story, tradition, practice, or culture. Ancient things contribute to historical completeness – they fill in existing holes, draw connections, and answer or potentially pose questions. This quote highlights the importance of interpreting history accurately as a complete whole and presents the significance of doing such in the present day. Furthermore, the author explains that the importance and relevance of history in the modern world ultimately relies on the accurate understanding or interpretation of such. Simply put, ancient things hold inherent worth when its context is accurately interpreted as it is an essential part to a larger whole – a whole far more complex and greater than the sum of its parts; a whole that holds meaning in today’s world. However, without accurate interpretation and context these individual parts may be deemed meaningless, and thus the larger “whole”, full story, or greater picture may be missed. As the quote states, there is merit in integrity as the accurate interpretation and honest understanding of an ancient artifact, relic, or historical object entails the maintenance of a complete whole – further preserving its true meaning and allowing it to inherent worth.  

The railway station analogy that Hyams uses in this quote conveys that the act of forgetting or actively ignoring history does not serve one any purpose or benefit, as past events retain relevance through their prominent influence on society today. To think, feel or act as if the past is done with does not make it disappear nor erase it from history but rather limits the individual’s perspective and interpretation of the world. Just as the railway station existed long before and after our train had passed, history has and will continue to shape the present day and our natural world whether we choose to acknowledge it or not.

This quote made me consider how history and nature are inherently interlinked. There are trees living on this earth that are thousands of years old; the Great Basin bristlecone pine known as Methuselah located in eastern California in the white mountains is approximately 4,853 years old according to tree ring data – meaning this tree was established before the pyramids at Giza were built by the ancient Egyptians roughly 4,600 years ago (Bauza, 2022). Ecosystems themselves are "wholes" composed of many individual parts - both biotic and abiotic - that serve a greater purpose or meaning.

According to the theory of evolution, every species on earth has evolved over time, or throughout history. Once from a common, universal ancestor - all living organisms have undergone change as time on earth has progressed. Evolution in general (as a concept, theory, study, or process) demonstrates the deep connection between history and life on earth, including nature and the natural world. The ecological structure of the earth has changed significantly with time - it has been marked by past events and shaped by history, demonstrating its apparent influence. The earth’s climate has also changed drastically throughout history, and although many choose to ignore or deny these lucid differences - similarly to how some have chosen to forget history, it does not make it go away. Choosing to ignore factual, meaningful information induces inaccurate or biased perceptions and interpretations of the world, ultimately causing nothing but a disservice to all.

References:

Bauza, V. (2022, June 6). Methuselah: Still the world’s oldest tree? https://www.conservation.org/blog/methuselah-still-the-worlds-oldest-tree#:~:text=In%20eastern%20California%2C%20a%20Great,built%20the%20pyramids%20at%20Giza. 

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Mackenzie, 

I absolutely loved reading your blog post this week and am so happy you brought this topic into conversation! 

I have also been on Tik Tok for about five years, I hopped onto the train during the Covid lockdown and unknowingly grew more addicted each day I opened the app. I have witnessed my screen time increase progressively over the course of my academic career, and with that have noticed myself become less interested in spending time outdoors, exercising, studying, or practicing hobbies and pastimes I once really enjoyed. I completely relate to how you feel as I am in the same boat, I have not been able to sit through a movie (or even an episode of a sitcom) without reaching for my phone and opening a social media app in years. The consumption of rapid-fire high-stimulatory video content for multiple hours every day for the last half a decade has without a doubt caused significant damage to my dopamine receptors and my brains neural pathways. 

Last unit we discussed social diseases and as I was reading the six forms of social decline in modern youth, I felt a hard slap in the face. I mentioned it in my blog post, but I used to be a very artistic, imaginative, creative kid. The type to spend every waking second of my free time reading, writing, drawing, painting, sculpting - you name it. I am ashamed to say it, but I have certainly noticed a decline in my fitness, initiative and enterprise, memory and imagination, skill and care, self-discipline, and compassion as I’ve grown more dependent on social media. And I really want to change that.

As far as your question goes – do I think the joy of using Tiktok outweighs the possible negative impacts it has on my life? No, I don’t. Believe me when I say that there are countless times where I really do enjoy and appreciate the app as it contains content that I find useful. For example, I really enjoy cooking – it is a huge passion of mine. TikTok has introduced me to so many innovative, knowledgeable, and creative professional chefs and home cooks that Ive grown genuine admiration for. Some of the tips I’ve learned on the app have improved my dishes beyond belief and many of my favourite recipes belong to someone else who chose to share it on the internet. I have recently picked up sewing and have also learned so much about the skill in such a short amount of time, all from Tiktok videos. However, I do believe it’s better I live without it as this information is accessible in other forms that are not as harmful to the human brain; recipe books, sewing magazines, cooking shows, podcasts, articles, websites - the list goes on.

Ultimately, we are not meant to spend our lives living through our screens and I have devoted far too much of my limited time here on earth to scrolling. I think it’s safe to say that I’ll be joining you on this dopamine detox :)

Thank for opening up this discussion,

- Serena

I Think it is Time for me to Delete TikTok.

Hello! Welcome back to my blog. Something that has taken over my mind recently is the effects TikTok has on all aspects of my life. 

                  As most people know, TikTok is an app that provides short-form content perfectly tailored to every user’s individual niche interests. It is extremely easy to fall into a trance for hours doom scrolling on TikTok, and I am left to think, what are the impacts of consuming this volume of short form content? 

                  I have been on TikTok on and off for about 5 years, and I have noticed a distinct difference in my ability to pay attention. Sometimes I catch myself scrolling during movies due to boredom. I find it more and more difficult to sit peacefully with my thoughts, I almost always have the urge to pick up my phone and scroll social media. Due to this deficit in attention, I find it harder to be mindful in the moment, I think that my brain is so used to constant stimulation that now it takes active effort to pause and be present with my thoughts. 

TikTok has also cut into time that could be dedicated towards hobbies that I love to do such as painting or reading books. I find that now I am so used to the instant gratification of picking up my phone, that the idea of setting up my space to paint seems like a huge daunting task. Why would I spend the time and effort painting when I can just scroll on TikTok and experience the same spikes in dopamine? I realize that this thought process is bad for my overall well-being, but TikTok addiction has rewired my brain.  I am sure TikTok has also impacted my performance when it comes to academics, lots of time that could be dedicated towards my studies sometimes gets allocated to TikTok scrolling. 

Although TikTok can be harmful to some people (such as myself) if used responsibly, and in moderation, it can have some benefits. Some of the benefits I have acquired thanks to TikTok is a bunch of random facts and information about topics I am interested in. It has also connected me to influencers and comedians that produce content on other formats such as YouTube and podcasts. TikTok also provides many people with a sense of community, this is especially relevant to those who have uncommon interests, it can connect you with like-minded individuals. 

Overall, I think it is time I part ways with TikTok. TikTok has provided me with endless laughs and useless tidbits of information, and I will miss it. Some individuals can use it responsibly, but I don’t think I am one of those people. 

Question for the reader: Do you think the joy of using TikTok outweighs the possible negative impacts it has on your life? 

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Interpreting Nature while Traveling

This past week, in the midst of the cold, snowy weather, I found myself reflecting heavily on the summertime – specifically the trip my family and I took to Italy in June. Without a doubt or second thought, my favourite part about my trip was observing and experiencing the natural beauty in the different regions and provinces we visited. So, considering the opportunity to free write this week I thought I would share some of what I saw while I was there with you all!

We began our trip in San Benedetto del Tronto, a city located on the Adriatic coast in the Marche region of Italy. Although considered “urban” as the city inhabits over 100,000 people, contains countless buildings, and is less agriculture focused, I noticed it felt significantly different from the urban cities in Canada, such as Toronto and my even hometown Hamilton. The first thing I noticed upon arriving was the city’s landscape – the streets were boarded with beautiful trees, shrubs and flowers framed the sidewalks, and massive palm trees towered over the beach chalets that lined the shore. The ocean was a bright turquoise blue and clear, allowing the colourful shells and starfish to be visible from above the surface as they laid on the seafloor.

We then visited Roseto Valfortore, a very small town in the Apulia region of Italy. This city was far more remote and agriculture-focused than the others we visited, with a population of roughly 1,200 people. My mom’s mother (my nonna) was born and raised in this town with the rest of her family, she grew up on her grandparent’s farm before immigrating to Canada. My family and I were graciously welcomed by my nonnas brother (my great uncle) who still lives in the town with his wife and children. My cousins walked us through the village and offered a guided hike to the abandoned farm my great grandparents once owned. Although the walk uphill was not the easiest, it was breathtaking – the higher we got the greater the view we were rewarded with. The sun glowed over the rolling hills in the horizon, olive groves surrounded the village, and thick forest canopies stretched far into the distance. 

From there we traveled to Priano, a town in the Campania region located on the Amalfi Coast. The steep slopes and cliffs made up of Mesozoic age dolomite limestone surrounded colourful towns, towered over the coastline, and were covered in prickly pear cacti. The Amalfi rocky coast system was something unlike anything I had ever seen before – it was fascinating. Olive branches poked out of dense foliage and lemon trees gave the salty air a bright citrus scent. Ocean coves with clear, warm water were hidden around corners, and the rocky beaches contained remnants of ceramic tile, pottery, and glass. 

I feel so grateful to have been able to have gone on this trip with my family, my parents planned this trip for their 25thwedding anniversary and I am so thankful they wanted to take my sister and I with them. It was my parents first time back in Italy after decades and they were both able to reconnect with family members they hadn’t seen in years. This vacation was incredible for so many reasons, but as someone who has spent over half a decade studying and researching the sciences, I found a profound appreciation for the variation within the natural world while on this trip. I was captivated by the unique geology, diverse ecology, and individualistic beauty of each area we visited - cannot wait to travel to other countries and experience more! 

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Nature Interpretation Through Art and The Gift of Beauty

Art can be both objective and subjective, as it is a meaningful expression of one’s personal perspective - often created for the observation and inspiration of others. Chapter five, “Learning through Artwork” illustrates that much of what is conveyed through art is merely the personal response of an individual viewer – explaining that individuals may interpret or perceive the overall message, or underlying meaning of an art piece differently than not only one another, but from the artist’s intention as well. In other words, although art is an expression of the artists personal perspective, it often serves as a reflection of the viewer’s innermost emotions and unique perception of the world. Thus, art is interpreted and valued significantly differently between individuals. 

I have always been inspired by art, in its variety of forms. As a child I was overtly artistic - spending every waking moment of my free, personal time creating various displays of artwork. My sister on the other hand had less interest for such, and although we may perceive art differently, we are both able to independently interpret, appreciate, and value various art forms. I believe that anyone can interpret nature through art, as artistic interpretation is not exclusive or limited to artists themselves - as one does not have to be a musician to appreciate music, or a poet to admire poetry, or a writer to enjoy a novel. It is in our nature as human beings to interpret, enjoy, and appreciate different forms of arts, whether it be a painting, or a film, or the scenic views of a natural landscape, or the stillness of sunlight shining through a tree canopy. 

The Japanese word komorebi actually refers to interplay of sunlight filtering through the leaves of trees - describing the artistic beauty of dappled light and shadow in nature (Wong , 2023). This word is untranslatable in the English language and was created to detail the inherent beauty of nature, while serving as a reminder that there are bright spots even in the darkest times that can make such hardships more tolerable (Wong , 2023). The origin of the word komorebi perfectly illustrates how individuals, or rather the Japanese people, related the subject of nature to their own lives while actively interpreting the natural world - and ultimately, how nature is interpreted through art. 

I interpret “The Gift of Beauty” (Beck et al., 2018) as the profound beauty and wonder that naturally exists within the world. The beauty of nature goes far beyond the earth’s surface, it is found in the harmony of balanced ecosystems, the resilience of biotic life, and the intricate, minute details that often go unnoticed by the human eye at first glance. In my opinion, “The Gift of Beauty” refers to the compelling quality that nature possesses, that of which evokes overwhelming interest, attention, admiration, and inspiration. This deep, genuine appreciation for nature and its immense beauty often further instills an intrinsic drive to maintain and care for it - allowing it to be enjoyed continuously, or throughout the lifetime of those currently inhabiting earth, and by future generations. As implied by the term “The Gift of Beauty”, beauty is a gift – a gift not only to admire, but more importantly to preserve and share with others, particularly those that will come after us. 

References:

Beck, L., Cable, T. T., & Knudson, D. M. (2018). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage for a better world. Sagamore Publishing.

Wong , K. (2023, August 11). Komorebi: Sunlight filtered through trees. Untranslatable. https://untranslatable.substack.com/p/komorebi-sunlight-filtered-through  

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Good evening Biona!

I really enjoyed reading your blog post this week, you did an excellent job defining privilege and reflecting on the way it influences how individuals and groups of people interpret the natural world. I loved reading about your parent’s experience immigrating from Albania to Canada and especially enjoyed the photo you included of them (side-note: they have great style)! I also really liked how you categorized privilege and summarized how various barriers have discouraged the participation of, or rather excluded different minority groups. I certainly agree that by addressing inaccessibility barriers and privilege types, nature interpreters can create an inclusive environment where all individuals, regardless of personal identity markers, can attain a meaningful experience in the natural world and develop a deep, emotional relationship with nature. 

As you mentioned in your post, this week’s readings emphasized that many individuals born into more privileged circumstances are not taught to recognize their advantages, and thus it goes unnoticed by many who have it. For example, I realized how geographically privileged I am to live in Hamilton after I had moved to Guelph - I did not realize how much opportunity my hometown offered for nature interpretation until I had temporality left for University. Living in between Lake Ontario and the Niagara escarpment provides me with various ecosystem types and natural areas to explore, including beaches, waterfalls, forests, swamps, marshes, rivers, creeks, and grasslands. Although I loved living in Guelph and enjoyed the city’s forests and wetlands, moving made me realize how diverse the Hamilton area is geographically and how privileged I am to be able to access so much variety within such a close distance! 

Thank you for your post, again I really enjoyed reading your blog this week :)

- Serena

Included are some photos of various natural areas in the Hamilton area!

Blog #3: Privilege and Nature Interpretation

Hi everyone,

Welcome to my third blog post!

This week's blog post will explore the role of privilege in nature interpretation. To begin, Privilege is defined as "a special right, advantage, or immunity granted or available only to a particular person or group." There are two distinct categories of privilege.

The first refers to aspects of a person’s identity or circumstances that they are born into and cannot control. Examples of these include race, gender, socioeconomic status, and physical abilities. These factors often affect an individual's access to opportunities and experiences from the very beginning.

On the other hand, earned privileges are advantages that come from a person’s actions or achievements. This category includes education, skills, and professional accomplishments.

Unpacking My Invisible Backpack

My parents immigrated to Canada from Albania over 25 years ago in their late twenties, starting with almost nothing and speaking little English.

My dad, who graduated with a degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Tirana, began his journey in Canada, delivering pizzas and working overnight shifts at a factory to support our family. They managed to save enough for a down payment on a house just four years after arriving. Eventually, my dad secured a job as a service engineer with CN Railway in Toronto, and my mom started working as hairstylist.

As highlighted in this week's readings, many individuals born into more privileged circumstances "are not taught to recognize their privileges" (Gallavan, 2005). This concept deeply resonates with my experience as the daughter of immigrant parents.

Growing up, I was aware of the sacrifices my parents made in order to provide me with a life full of opportunitiy they never had. I often observed that many of my peers unknowingly took their privileges for granted. For instance, stable financial support and access to higher education were the norm for some of my peers and their families. But for my family, these achievements required significant effort and dedication.

My parents first day in Canada, 1998

Privilege and Nature Interpretation

When it comes to nature interpretation, privilege plays a significant role. As stated in the textbook, "To effectively serve a related audience, you must know them" (Beck et al.,  2018). Understanding the audience allows interpreters to tailor messages and experiences more effectively (Beck et al.,  2018). This requires interpreters to appreciate the unique backgrounds and lived experiences of their audience.

The textbook outlines several barriers that have discouraged park attendance among minority populations (Beck et al.,  2018).

Economic Barriers- Lack of personal vehicle or public transportation. Entrance fees, lodging, food etc. 

Cultural barriers- Participation is based on cultural preferences related to history, values, etc.

Communication Barriers- Language barriers may prevent interpreters from serving diverse audiences.

Lack of Knowledge- Lack of awareness on where to go, what to do.

Fear- Fear of wildlife, getting lost, safety conerns.

By addressing these barriers, interpreters can create welcoming environments, allowing diverse individuals to develop a deeper appreciation for nature and what it has to offer.

Thanks for reading!

Biona🍀🌷🐬

References: Knudson, L.B.T.T.C.D. M. (2018). Interpreting Cultural and Natural Heritage: For a Better World. Sagamore Publishing LLC. https://sagamore.vitalsource.com/books/9781571678669

Gallavan, N. P. (2005). Helping teachers unpack their "invisible knapsacks." Multicultural Education, 13 (1), 36. Gale Academic OneFile. https://link.gale.com/apps/doc/A137921591/AONE?u=guel77241&sid=bookmark-AONE&xid=9fe2f151

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Privilege in Nature Interpretation

Privilege refers to the unearned immunity, rights, advantages, and benefits that particular individuals or groups of people are granted due to their economic, social, and/or cultural status, rather than through personal effort or merit. Privilege is a social construct that arises from societal structures, norms, and institutions that assign unearned entitlement on people based on factors such as race, gender, class, sexual orientation, (physical and mental) ability, religion, age, nationality, or other identity marker(s). These advantages are systemic rather than inherent or biologically determined as they are shaped by the historical, political, and cultural systems within a society. Privilege can manifest through various forms, including, social acceptance, opportunities, and access to resources that are restricted to others.

Privilege plays a significant role in nature interpretation by influencing accessibility, perspective, and inclusivity in how natural environments are experienced, understood, and shared with others. Those with economic privilege, or access to wealth and financial resources, often have greater access to natural areas whether through travel, park fees, or outdoor gear. Thus, economic privilege can influence the audience attending nature interpretation programs, of excluding those with less financial stability or security. Geographic privilege, or the proximity to natural spaces, hiking trails, and protected areas can also influence the audience of nature interpretation programs. Those in urban cities or under-resourced areas often have fewer opportunity for such experiences compared to others. Language and physical ability also restrict access and influence the audience of nature interpretation programs as they are often designed in dominant languages or for able-bodied individuals, limiting inclusivity for non-native speakers, those with literacy challenges, and individuals with disabilities. Furthermore, interpretative programs that lack representation of diverse perspectives including women, people of colour, or Indigenous communities, may unintentionally alienate or isolate certain audiences. Nature interpretation has historically been shaped by dominant cultural narratives, which may marginalize or overlook the perspectives, knowledge, and practices of Indigenous peoples and other underrepresented minority groups. Educational privilege is also apparent in nature interpretation, as some interpretive programs may assume prior knowledge about nature, environmental issues, or other information that may not be accessible to all audiences. This may also unintentionally alienate certain audiences, particularly those without formal environmental education. 

Although nature interpretation programs can sometimes be less accessible to those who lack certain advantages, nature interpreters can leverage their positions to address privilege and limit inaccessibility. This can be achieved by designing programs that reduce economic and accessibility restrictions, such as by offering free or low-cost interpretative activities, multilingual materials, and accessible recreational trails (or trails that are accessible/complaint to people with mobility devices). Nature interpreters can also use their position to amplify the voices of marginalized or underrepresented groups, such as First Nations communities, by sharing traditional Indigenous knowledge and acknowledging the systemic historical exclusion of minority groups from natural spaces. Nature interpreters should also actively seek feedback from such underrepresented communities to ensure their voices and knowledge are being accurately represented (Beck et al., 2018).

By recognizing and addressing privilege, nature interpreters can faster more equitable and inclusive experiences that ensure all people (regardless of social class or economic status, gender, race, etc.) develop a connection with nature and feel inspired to contribute to its conservation. 

References:

Beck, L., Cable, T. T., & Knudson, D. M. (2018). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage for a better world. Sagamore Publishing.

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Hi Marcus, 

I loved reading your blog post for week two, you did a really great job highlighting the significant role environmental interpreters have in fostering both emotional and spiritual connections between people and nature. I completely agree with your belief that one’s appreciation for the environment and biotic life can be expanded through meaningful experiences and deeper understanding - and that a greater appreciation for the natural world often encourages sustainable practices. As you mentioned, a greater personal appreciation for the environment motivates the individual to become a steward of the earth; someone who takes cares of the planet through responsible use and protection of its natural resources, and serves as an advocate for sustainability. Thus, I also agree with your statement that providing these meaningful experiences to those around us ultimately supports conservation efforts – and thus I think it’s especially important to provide such for children , as the world will one day be in their hands!  

I really admire your authentic passion for not only science and spirituality, but the combination of both, along with your desire to apply such to the environment. I also appreciate how you thoughtfully considered and prioritized accessibility in this role as an environmental interpreter, making scientific literature with restricted-access more available to the public, and offering nature talks on pathed paths, or providing elevated gardening surfaces for those with mobility issues that would like participate. You really did an excellent job ensuring that everyone, regardless of financial or physical ability, has access to the opportunity to connect with nature and undergo a meaningful, immersive experience.  

Well done!

- Serena :)

Who am I as an environmental interpreter??

As an environmental interpreter, my dream role would be to create spaces where people can cultivate a deep sense of place and community. I envision this through various hands-on, physical approaches that not only connect people to nature but also invite them to become stewards of the earth. These immersive experiences are incredibly important to me, as they help forge spiritual connections that shape my worldview. Activities like hugging trees to express gratitude, foraging for craft supplies or food, hiking, and gardening are some of the experiences that strongly resonate with me. With my 'feet on the ground' and 'hands in the dirt' is where I find my true calling. I believe that by engaging people in these meaningful activities, we can nurture a greater appreciation for the natural world and encourage sustainable practices. My goal is to create a space where individuals feel connected to the environment, thus including it in their definition of community.

As an ecology student, I’m passionate about combining science and spirituality in regard to the  environment. Environmental interpreters play a crucial role in bridging the gap between scientific research and the general public, making the natural world more relatable and meaningful. Thus, my role as an environmental interpreter would ideally include making gatekept  scientific concepts and literature more accessible and engaging for the public.  Most importantly to be a successful environmental interpreter, it is important to me that experiences can be accessible to everyone, regardless of physical or financial barriers. This could mean offering nature talks on paved paths in parks or providing elevated gardening surfaces for those with mobility challenges. It is also essential to incorporate different learning styles to ensure that everyone can get the most out of these experiences. By creating inclusive and diverse opportunities, we can engage a wider audience and hone deeper connections with nature.

This week’s readings highlighted how interpreters play a crucial role in transforming complex environmental ideas into relatable stories that spark curiosity and foster connections with nature. Whether working in parks, museums, or online, their goal is to inspire a deeper appreciation for the environment and encourage critical thinking. This ultimately supports conservation efforts by motivating individuals to become stewards and find their sense of place in nature . My vision as an environmental interpreter is to create immersive and interactive experiences that cultivate a sense of wonder and responsibility towards the environment. By engaging people in activities like tree hugging, foraging, hiking, and gardening, we can help them develop a personal connection to nature. These experiences not only educate but also inspire individuals to become advocates for sustainability.

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My Ideal Role as an Environmental Interpreter

Both nature and environmental interpreters play a significant role in connecting people with the natural environment, fostering environmental awareness, and inspiring environmental conservation. Thus my ideal role as an environmental interpreter involves authentic passion for both science and environmental conservation, education and integrative knowledge, keen observation skills, and the ability to connect such observations to broader ecological concepts or life lessons. 

My ideal location as an environmental interpreter would be along the west coast, in Washington or Oregon, but preferably in British Columbia. The (north) Pacific Ocean provides these locations with rich marine habitats home to many fascinating aquatic species, and various ecosystem types such as estuaries, rocky shores, sandy beaches, and temperate, coastal rainforests. The diverse ecosystems within these locations in the Cascadia bioregion allows unlimited opportunity for various styles of both teaching and learning. In this role, I would aim to create a variety of engaging experiences suited for a variety of audiences, including (foreign) tourists, elders, elementary and high school classes, university students, youth groups, and (young) adults. This role would involve leading walks or hikes along the shoreline of British Columbia and through the various temperate rainforests located along the province’s west coast. Throughout these leaded scientific excursions, I would demonstrate my comprehensive understanding of the local ecosystems by sharing information about the surrounding flora and fauna species, in addition to the environmental concerns in which are relevant to the area, in aim to evoke my audiences’ interest and attention. 

I am both a visual and sensing learner, I find that I retain concrete facts very easily due to genuine interest and the practical application of such. I also tend to remember what I see much better than what I hear, and often need to review (i.e., re-read) material more than once to fully understand the information presented. Thus, my guided walks and hikes would be as interactive, demonstrative, and hand-on as possible, ensuring the audience is learning both visually and verbally while actively participating. I would welcome any questions and offer to repeat information as many times as needed, while also allowing moments for both active discussion and quiet reflection. I would also provide a general information sheet for those in the audience who prefer to read (and re-read) material, in which would contain quick facts, information about environmental conservation and relevant local issues, and graphics (such as diagrams, flowcharts, etc.) for those that benefit from visual aids.  As stated in the textbook, good nature interpretation goes far beyond stating facts as it involves fostering personal, emotional connections between people and the environment. Thus, my primary goal would be to lead compelling conversations that resonate with each audience member, and evoke unique, personal interest in which is further explored.

Several skills are required to excel in this role, such as strong communication skills, allowing for the ability to convey complex ecological and environmental concepts in a lucid, engaging and relatable way. In addition, genuine passion and enthusiasm for nature and environmental conservation will likely further inspire and engage audiences. Adaptability, or the ability to adjust presentations, discussions, and activities, based on the specific needs of the audience is required to ensure that a variety of learners are kept engaged. Creativity in developing engaging programs, games, and teaching methods that cater to every learner and captivate the entire audience is also crucial, as people learn or take in and process information in different ways. 

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Hey Meghan!

I really enjoyed reading your blog post this week, you did an excellent job reflecting on your relationship with nature and the way it has evolved as you’ve grown older. I completely resonate with the way your relationship with nature has changed with age, as I’m sure many of our peers do. My childhood was also spent primarily outdoors regardless of the season, summers consisted of biking down to the waterfront in my hometown or exploring the forest along the Niagara escarpment while winters involved ice skating, tobogganing, and building snowmen on my front lawn. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve progressively spent less time outdoors and more time inside whether it be at home studying on my laptop, or at my part-time job working, or on campus attending lectures for majority of the day. However similarly to you, I commit time to slow down momentarily from my busy life and go on a long walk outside or hike a local trail. Spending time outdoors has never failed to reset me. A long walk in still, quiet woods quickly clears my loud, busy mind allowing me to relax and deeply reflect on the world around me. I also really enjoy using hiking as a way to spend time with friends and family for the same reasons you mentioned, it is such a convenient way to enjoy the outdoors and reconnect with busy loved ones. 

I grew up in Stoney Creek and always enjoyed visiting the waterfalls in Niagara! The Niagara region has some breathtaking views and so many great hiking trails I feel so grateful to have grown up so close by and completely understand why it offered you a sense of place. 

Again, I really enjoyed your post this week! - Serena

P.S. I would love to see some photos of your horses in a future blog post! :)

Finding Home in Nature

Nature has always been a significant part of my life, shaping my experiences and helping me find peace in an otherwise busy world. My connection to the outdoors began in childhood, where nature was not just a setting but the heart of my happiest memories.

Growing up, summer days were spent biking around with friends, exploring every corner of the neighborhood. Winters were equally special. My family would build an ice rink in our backyard, and my cousins and I would spend hours skating and laughing. Building snowmen and having snowball fights were traditions that made winter magical. These moments gave me a deep appreciation for the natural world, even when I didn't realize it at the time.

As I've grown older, my relationship with nature has evolved. I don't spend my days racing around on a bike anymore, but I've replaced that with long walks that allow me to slow down and reflect. Hiking has also become a favourite activity. It's not just about being active outdoors but also about reconnecting with friends. With busy schedules pulling us in different directions, hiking gives us a chance to come together and enjoy the beauty of the world around us.

One of the most significant changes in my connection to nature has been my growing love for animals. As a child, I was terrified of them. I would avoid dogs, cats, and pretty much any animal. Over the past year, though, my family has brought several horses into our lives, and they've completely changed my perspective. At first, I was hesitant and nervous around them. Now, I can't imagine my life without these incredible animals. Horses have become a source of comfort and joy for me. Their intelligence and grace are humbling, and spending time with them makes me feel a deep sense of belonging. They remind me how fortunate we are to share this world with such beautiful creatures.

When I think about a sense of place, my mind immediately goes to my home. Growing up in Niagara Falls have given me the privilege of experiencing its breathtaking beauty countless times. The waterfalls have always been a favourite spot, whether on school trips or personal visits. Hiking along the Niagara Gorge, with its stunning views, is one of my favourite activities. This area is more then where I grew up, it feels like home in every sense of the word.

In today's fast-moving world, nature gives us an opportunity to pause. When I'm feeling overwhelmed or stressed, stepping outside helps me reset. The sights, sounds, and even the air have a way of calming my mind. Nature reminds me that my worries are small compared to the vast beauty around me.

If you ever feel stressed or disconnected, take a moment to step outside. Whether you go for a walk, sit under a tree, or explore a nearby trail, nature has a way of grounding us. It's a simple act, but it can bring clarity and comfort when you need it most.

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Disclaimer

This blog was created for Serena Giacoboni (ENVS 3000), University of Guelph. 

The opinions expressed here represent my own and not those of the University of Guelph. 

The University of Guelph is not responsible for the accuracy of any of the information supplied by this blog.