Today marks the end of my 25th year of writing this column, but no worries. I plan on getting in at least another 25 years’ worth, maybe more.
To that goal, I am inspired by longtime "Ocean Watch" reader Bud Barnard, a nonagenarian who sends me wonderful emails often ending with the words, "Sent from my Droid Charge on Verizon 4G." I expect to hear from Bud via some portable device yet to be invented after he becomes a centenarian.
Here’s one of Bud’s typical letters: "… your wonderful articles move me almost to tears — they give a ‘oneness’ with life itself, a feeling of being right there with you, experiencing what you’re seeing and feeling. P.S. I still have my ‘pre-snorkel’ 1940s wooden goggles hanging right here on my computer monitor. Thanks, as ever, Bud."
Other readers sent me equally touching emails this year, and it’s those thoughtful comments that give me the energy to keep writing. Your letters let me know that I’m succeeding in my goal of showing, through my experiences, that the marine world isn’t a lost cause.
To be sure, the world’s oceans have problems. But an entire universe of life exists in the water below, the air above and the shorelines beside them to be cherished, protected and fought for.
Some email messages I received this year made it clear that I don’t always get my point across. Take the following: (The spelling and punctuation are the writer’s.) "Jst came across ur page n found it really informative. Pls i will need more information on exporters of bird droppings as am interested in the business. i appreciate your anticipated cooperation. Prince Awwal."
Apparently, I didn’t explain in my piece on guano that mining it destroys seabird habitat, and therefore, seabirds. I’m no proponent of guano quarrying, and don’t know thing one about the business. I hope the prince didn’t wait too long for my "anticipated cooperation."
Other interesting letters in 2012 came from people asking good questions. In looking up the answers, I learned new facts about countless species, including conger eels, lizardfish and hammerhead sharks. It makes writing this column all the fun of going to school minus the tests.
Researching my subjects also sometimes feels like I’m visiting another planet. Last week, for instance, I learned about an animal worthy of a "Star Trek" episode: an immortal jellyfish.
It’s the blend of mystery and marvel that attracts so many of us to marine biology. We all want to believe that we are part of something magnificent. The ocean and its inhabitants show us that we are.
Thank you, Bud and everyone, for your continued support. To 2013 and beyond!
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Reach Susan Scott at www.susanscott.net.
