Nurturing Our Nature

The American Veterinary Medical Association initiated the One Health program several years ago  This program encouraged research, policy, and academic study on health issues that crossed species boundaries and impacted communities of mixed species. The idea is that health is interconnected and that if one amongst us is sick or ailing, so are others and the environment.  We are one earth with one health.

With this in mind, I blend my experience as a wildlife veterinarian, conservationist, and veterinarian to encourage my fellow humans to greater health for themselves while also seeking improved well being for earth and her inhabitants.  Experiencing the wonder and marvel of nature, we come to deeply know we belong on this planet and are part of a beautiful whole.  This sense of belonging comes to abide in us, in daily open awareness as well as in our mysterious subconscious and bodies so that wherever we walk, sit, or breathe we are immersed in interdependence.  The web of life holds us tenderly as we acknowledge our needs weaving with those of others.  Receiving nature’s empathy, we can then in turn imagine ourselves as other species; what are they thinking and feeling?  In this way we offer empathy to other species and individuals as we understand their needs through emotional and cognitive connections. 

What we experience through the lens of the other is sometimes a confusing and frightening reality, for it means we experience multiple deaths, widespread suffering, and continual loss of life.  We seek this true understanding, for as we more greatly accept life, life holds us ever closer to the heart and heat of wonder and beauty.  Being thus  held in this timeless embrace, we are nourished, motivated, and inspired to be the change we wish in the world. 

Through One Earth Ministry I invite others to work with me in producing video and written messages and meditations, as well as attending local meet ups where I and others travel.  One regular meet up is with the Earth Keepers:  Ecospiritual Practice of the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Gainesville.

Click here to go to Earth Keepers Weekly Reader and Practice

Click here to go to LoraKim's Video Channel

Written nature meditations and reflections using Mary Oliver's Poetry