 Birdwatchers at bee tree in the Indian Shell Mounds on Dauphin Island  Black-throated blue warbler at Dauphin Island  People saving dolphin stranded in ditch after Hurricane Rita |
On Dauphin Island, I was deeply impressed by the attitudes and actions of two groups: birdwatchers and hurricane watchers. When I wrap these two groups together, I get a glimpse of a very old, old friend who believed in the value of others.
Noah loved people, his family, animals, and the Earth. He enjoyed grass, trees, fresh air, rain, and the beauty of the skies. Noah was in the habit of observing, learning, providing for the needy, listening to others, and sharing fresh insights. Noah’s epic courage, faith, and determination inspired him to prepare well for the Flood of all Floods. People laughed at Noah. But he remained so positive, that he rallied friends and family to help him build the Boat of all Boats. Noah so clearly worked for the benefit of all, that it was said that he walked with God and that he was God’s true messenger (see Bible and Qur’an). “At the Shell Mounds, Noah and I saw 10 warbler species and a scarlet tanager was hopping right at our feet! Nice talking, got to run, someone saw a scissor-tailed flycatcher at Fort Gaines!” The warnings are up – it’s a category 5 hurricane – little else matters! Like Noah, the islanders have let go of old spats. There are people to look after, everyone’s pets too, and time is of the essence! Community, family, survival – all is at risk! Like in the days of Noah, our future is in doubt, but we are the Ark Builders! Inspired by the birdwatchers, we, each in our own way, can learn to gratefully take in the beauty of the Earth! Inspired by Noah, we, each in our own way, can learn to protect all Creation’s precious gifts! Inspired by islanders preparing for hurricanes, we, each in our own way, can learn to put away our squabbles and work together for the benefit of all! And when we do, patiently like Noah, wherever we’re at, country, cities, islands … we will be embracing a future filled with rainbows and promises beyond our imagination!  Butterfly at Dauphin Island
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| Birding and butterfly photos can be found at youtube video: Birds and Birders of Dauphin Island, Alabama | |
| Dolphin photo above can be found at Wikimedia: U.S. Navy photo of volunteers | |
Noah and the Ark Builders
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