By Karen O’Connor:
Homeschoolers–and others who are simply curious–can learn interesting facts about invasive species, and also consider a spiritual analogy.
The beautiful yet invasive Zebra Mussel (Image from Wikimedia Commons)
During the last month I have been writing a book for fourth graders on animals and fish that take over the native habitats of other animals and steal their food. This leads to the destruction of natural ecosystems and is becoming a major problem around the world.
It has been a fascinating and alarming topic to write about and I’ve learned a lot. I also realized that I was finding God while writing about invasive species because God is the creator of all these creatures and the one who established a balanced planet until humankind interfered in ways that has upset this equilibrium—often by accident.
While digging into the subject I thought about how my habits, attitudes, and viewpoints are often like these invaders. I barge into other people’s lives and drop my ‘sins,’ stealing their peace of mind or robbing them of the thoughts and ideas that nourish them. Perhaps I discount another’s opinion, or try to force my way of thinking on someone who is not open to hear what I have to say. Or maybe my thoughts are poisonous though I put a smile on my face.
Other people sometimes behave toward me in the same way. They invade my territory, worming their way into my thinking, stealing my joy, upsetting my day. Human beings, in such situations, leave just as much damage in their wake as invasive species such as the Zebra mussel or the brown tree snake or the European wild boar do on land and sea.
The Bible reminds us of God’s teaching regarding our relationship with others—whether with people or animals. For God made us all. It is up to each of us to find a way to contribute to peace on earth.
“To sum up, all of you be harmonious, sympathetic, brotherly, kindhearted, and humble in spirit;” (1 Peter 3:8 New American Standard Bible).
View this informative YouTube video on how invasive species are moved from one port to another throughout the world.
©Karen O’Connor. Karen is an author, writing mentor, and frequent contributor to the Finding God Daily blog. Visit Karen on the web at www.karenoconnor.com, on Facebook , or follow on Twitter @karenoconnor .
