Mr Pat Arndt
Reflections from the 2008 Toyota International Teacher Program to the Galápagos Islands
Toyota: A Gift One Can Never Repay
I find myself, sometimes in the strangest of places, returning to the Galapagos Islands in my mind. My thoughts might be triggered by a picture on TV, the smell of seafood in a restaurant, or a feeling of wonderment as I explore nature in my backyard. I often have to pinch myself back to reality, as I still cannot put into words all the amazing experiences Toyota so generously blessed upon each one of us.
As an educator, I feel rewarded each day as I go into my classroom to open my students’ minds to the amazing planet we live on, and the cultures that shape our world. However, I have never felt so appreciated, and my job so important, as Toyota (Rhonda Glasscock and staff) made me feel for two incredible weeks. We were treated to all first class accommodations, the best food, and wonderful daily excursions be it hiking, snorkeling, or exposure to the environmental issues facing the islands.
When colleagues and friends ask about the trip, I have trouble even knowing where to begin, so I just smile and shake my head. They all quickly respond: YOU’RE SPEECHLESS, IT WAS THAT GREAT! I once again smile and nod my head trying to find my words.
Thank you Toyota for this life changing experience which I will treasure a lifetime.
The Crew: An Eclectic Group of Talent
Having traveled many times with large groups of people, the experience can always be rewarding, yet sometimes very challenging. In the case of the Galapagos crew 2008, it was nothing but rewards. Never before have I had the fortune to travel with such a uniquely talented, adventurous group of lifetime learners. Each teacher, from the U.S. or Galapagos, had such a passion for life and teaching, it was truly inspirational. I came home recharged about teaching, life, travel, and I couldn’t wait to share with my students the islands. I am sure that I have made some lifetime friendships during this trip. The world is small, and I am confident some of our paths will cross again. Most likely on a different continent or in some international airport, or here in the states.
Wildlife: A Biologist Dreamland
As a biologist, one always treasures great field experiences with intimate viewing of wildlife. Furthermore, the opportunity to view endangered species in their natural environment is always a special moment to remember and cherish. Never before have I been so blessed than to see wildlife like that of the Galapagos Islands. The lack of fear and the extreme tolerance of all the species on the islands can be seen no place else on planet Earth. The number of endangered species we were so fortunate to view inspires me to do all I can to help protect them for my daughter to see when I return someday to the islands with her. I also see the great need for more funding and manpower for wildlife research within the islands and the marine reserve. We must protect in order to totally understand each species’ role in the web of life. The thought of a world someday without lava lizards eats at my inner soul.
Evolution in Action: Hail Darwin!
As a teacher of evolutionary theory in Biology, I use examples of speciation from the Galapagos Islands in my lectures to help students grasp the deeper concepts of Darwin’s historic thoughts. However, after hearing lectures and seeing first hand evolution in action on each individual island in tortoises, iguanas, or lava lizards, I have a much deeper personal understanding of evolution, and feel even better prepared to present Darwin’s concepts with first hand knowledge and field experience. To walk in the footsteps of Charles Darwin on the “islands of hell” was a dream come true for me. A truly defining moment in my life. Hail Darwin!
Pete and Renee: Ecological Prophets with a Big Camera
Every species, on any planet, in any universe, needs a couple like Pete and Renee. They are more than just great photographers who earn a living with captivating images. They are truly environmental crusaders who continually dedicate their lives to help preserve species and habitats all around the world. I stand and applaud their efforts, and feel blessed to have spent two weeks learning from their years of wisdom and activism. They are direct with their message, and are not afraid to speak the truth when and where it needs to be said. As I returned home on the many flights to the routines of home, I found myself reflecting even more about their lives and expeditions. To explore the planet, help out on wildlife projects, and educate the masses through various mediums is a goal of mine for the future. Pete and Renee, THANK YOU, you are truly role models for all to follow.
Everglades: A Wetland of Wonder
The Everglades were on my “bucket list” of places to see on the planet, and it was an added bonus to this great trip. Not only did we see them, but the wet trip into the Cyprus grove was an experience of a lifetime. I always like to really get into and explore habitats, even if it means getting wet or dirty. One always gets a much better and true perspective than observing from afar. As an avid worldwide birder, I was able to check off four species of birds from my life list which is always a special event for me personally. I hope the Everglades management continues to restore these magnificent wetlands regardless the cost. In the end, the benefits to the planet and ecosystem will far out weigh the dollars spent. I was excited to hear the number of school groups that visit the park each year, and the dedication of the staff to education. The values they instill in the youth now will be the saving grace of the Everglades in the future.
Galapagos Ecotourism: A Double Edged Sword
I came home somewhat frustrated, as I do many times after travel, with how countries should balance ecotourism and the preservation of habitats and species. No matter where mankind explores, the “Tragedy of the Commons” is sure to follow. This means that man’s actions are often for short term gain ($$$) without considering the long term effects of our actions (over exploitation to the point of destruction). I see millions of dollars entering the economy of Ecuador, but I don’t see millions of dollars being spent to protect the resources of the islands and the marine reserve. To hear that the planes and ships to protect the marine reserve are out of commission when million of dollars should be fixing them immediately makes me question the integrity of the Ecuadorian government. Did Toyota’s or my personal dollar spent help save or destroy the Galapagos in the end? I don’t want to sound cynical, but this truly eats at my environmental values. Is it better not to visit and allow the islands isolation from man, or visit and take it all in before it is gone forever? I wouldn’t trade my experience for anything, but would sleep better at night knowing the answers to these questions?
Ecuador: Cloud Forest, Hummingbird, and Leopold
As our trip started to wind down, and travel fatigue setting in, I was totally rejuvenated and uplifted by my time in the cloud forest. Maybe it was the gentle rain, the misty jungle, or the smaller group, but the hike in the cloud forest had a spiritual healing to all the stress in my life. For that afternoon, I felt that each breath I took had no purpose but to be part of a wildness that never ended. I always treasure the times when I feel a true part of nature, and not an invader into its complex simplicity. Aldo Leopold once said: "There are some who can live without wild things and some who cannot. Like winds and sunsets, wild things were taken for granted until progress began to do away with them. Now we face the question whether a still higher standard of living is worth its costs in things natural, wild, and free.” This famous foreward to A Sand County Almanac always makes me question what standard of living are we working toward? Will we ever get there or have we no understanding that less is much, much, more. To see a hummingbird drink from a trumpet flower in the misty cloud forest, or a Cock of the Rock hen feed her chicks in the hidden nest is enough for me. No higher standard could top my hike. As far as living without wild things, I know that I am truly one who cannot!