Who Makes a Difference?- We do
Antarctica is a peaceful kingdom, writes Dian Olsen Belanger in her book, Deep Freeze.
Science is the primary focus for the Icy Continent. We learn about space, earth's changing climate, life sciences, ecosystems--every thinkable aspect of science can be researched at the bottom of the world. We also enlighten ourselves about humans under extreme conditions when we study Antarctica.
The Antarctic Treaty is an important accomplishment in the 20th century. The world came together to protect one place on earth from war, politics, mining and exploitation. We continue the "how did this happen?!" thought, with our new Paris Agreement. I love it when the world collectively determines something positive for our future. Critics say it's not enough. Like the Antarctic Treaty, the fact that we have this agreement is a feat worth celebrating. Over 100 countries in agreement and counting.
As I reflect on the success of Admiral Byrd's III expedition to the South Pole, I'm reminded that the human side of any endeavor can make or break the most well thought out plan. 125 men and 80 dogs found ways to cope with the harshness of their voyage because they each did their part and relied on the other.
George W. Gibbs Jr., said it was the best time in his life. Gibbs was 23 when he sailed on the USS Bear. When I first heard this, as his daughter, I felt disappointed that it didn't include me (haha).
The trip was well before he was married with family. After all the amazing things he experienced, Antartica was it! Count down Day 2 until his 100th birthday.
Remember every day, we make the difference in our future.
Miles to other world cities from King George Island 2012 ©Leilani Henry
Nature Rules OK? New Antarctica Musical in Hobart Australia
Today, I'm hyperaware of the line between life and death in Antarctica. Some have said it's not life and death any more on the Ice. Not true!
Gordon Hamilton, a prominent climate scientist, died from a snow mobile accident, in late October. He fell into a 100 ft deep crevasse. Crevasses are one of the primary hazards on the continent. You can be super skillful and still fall prey to the landscape.
and Yes, Nature does Rule. Antarctic scientist, Dana Bergstrom, an Australian survivor of a fatal sewer gas leak, wrote and produced a New Antarctica Musical. She vowed, if she survived, to share in a more dramatic way, why Antarctica is the 'canary in the coal mine' on our planet. If you live near Hobart, it's playing until 11/12/16.
I hope these posts help you be more engaged with our precious bottom of the world.
I know I need to do more, many people are waiting for me to finish my writing project. Thanks for your support!
Leilani Henry speaking to students at a CO Middle school ©Leilani Henry