My initial focus upon entering the cypress swamp was primarily on the feeling of wet shoes, then water seeping into my socks, and eventually, my thigh-high submersion into the dark, cool, (and bacteria-filled!) swamp water. After adjusting to the physical feeling of the new environment, I was then able to recognize the special opportunity this walk had afforded me, which was the ability to be at one with nature via the elimination of any man-made barriers which would otherwise limit me as an outsider looking in at the habitat.
For instance, I mentioned in my previoius entry that I have walked Six Mile Cypress Slough on multiple occasions, and have enjoyed experiencing the cypress swamp from the luxury of a boardwalk. The experience on the FGCU Campus walk, however, took the experience to a new level, in that there was no barrier, allowing me to view the cypress swamp from the inside, which in a sense, took me from an observer of nature to an actual participant. It was quite special to be completely surrounded by the cypress trees, experiencing the swamp from the perspective of one of its inhabitants. The experience seemed to remove me from the "human world," for lack of a better term, and place me directly back into the state of nature, which is something I always find peaceful. I definitely have a new found respect for the campus.
Photograph taken at North Lake Village.
My initial feelings regarding this class included a genuine interest and intrigue, regarding discovering the natural habitats of Southwest Florida. I am from Massachusetts, and am really enjoying this unique environment, as it is so different and beautiful in it's own way. I have frequently walked at Six Mile Cypress slough, and have ridden bike trails, both of which have enabled me to enjoy this area's plant and wildlife. I am still in awe of the vast sky here, to the point of ridicule whenever a rainbow appears! Just walking around FGCU has been interesting to me, specifically the swampy areas. Even the rain is beautiful here! And I love the wildlife Florida had to offer: dolphins, alligators, armadillos, all of the huge birds and oversized bugs. Amazing.
As far as my relationship with the natural world, I am definitely at peace in nature. No doubt about it, whether it's on a bike trail, at the beach, or even on an airplane looking out at the clouds, I have a deep respect and appreciation for the environment. Consequently, I am actively recycling, conserving energy, and keeping the planet free of any source of pollution.
The anxiety for the class began to set in upon review of the syllabus, however! I enjoy learning and believe that knowledge is power, and the more one knows about a variety of topics, the better off one becomes. Writing is my preferred form of communication, so I plan to enjoy that aspect of the course.
I can appreciate what this class has to offer me, as far as gaining knowledge about the Southwest Florida environment. As I said, I find these habitats to be very interesting and special.
Photograph taken at Wiggins Pass.
