Rachel Carson 

Little did I know back in the 5th grade when I was Rachel Carson in my Herstory Parade that her spirit would be with me throughout my life.  Unlike Rachel, I discovered science first and became an environmental scientist and marine biologist.  It is only recently that I have gained confidence in my writing and that I know now that I am to continue her work.

Here are a few of my favorite quotes of hers:

"Those who dwell, as scientists or laymen, among the beauties and mysteries of the earth are never alone or weary of life."

"If I had influence with the good fairy who is supposed to preside over the christening of all children, I should ask that her gift to each child in the world be a sense of wonder so indestructible that it would last throughout life."

"If a child is to keep alive his inborn sense of wonder, he needs the companionship of at least one adult who can share it, rediscovering with him the joy, excitement and mystery of the world we live in."

"The human race is challenged more than ever to demonstrate our mastery - not over nature but of ourselves."

"One way to open your eyes is to ask yourself, 'What if I had never seen this before? What if I knew I would never see it again?'"

"In an age when man has forgotten his origins and is blind to even his most essential needs for survival, water along with other resources has become victim to his indifference."

"No one can write truthfully about the sea and leave out the poetry."

Here are some links to websites about Rachel Carson:

A Sense of Wonder Movie

May 27th is Rachel Carson Day

One Woman Show about Rachel Carson

The Life and Legacy of Rachel Carson

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service page on Rachel Carson