But what about the not-so-lovable creatures—the man-eaters, the creepy crawlies, and pests? Do they serve a purpose? Can we find a way to be grateful for them?
Being thankful for all creatures on Earth and the roles they play in the ecosystem is not just a feel-good sentiment; it's a recognition of our profound interconnectedness with the natural world. Every organism, from the smallest microbe to the largest whale, plays a role in the intricate web of life. As such, all creatures (great and small) deserve respect coupled with balanced conservation efforts aimed at protecting biodiversity as well as preventing species extinction. Eradication of seemingly small or insignificant species can have cascading negative effects.
Learning about the specific roles different creatures play—pollination by bees, decomposition by fungi, predation by wolves, etc.—gives us a deeper understanding and appreciation for the complex and vital processes that sustain life on Earth. Further, spending time in nature and appreciating its inhabitants has been linked to reduced stress, improved mood, and a greater sense of connection to the living world. And being thankful for the creatures who live around us increases these good feelings.
🐛
Your action prompt today is to research a form of life that gives you the willies so that you can learn about its value and grow to respect its vital role in sustaining life on Earth.
Buck up. You’ve got this!
And who knows, you may even become an advocate for the critter!