This past month has been a period of incredible highs and lows. In September, my dream of a lifetime came true when I attended a talk by Jane Goodall at the Fisher Theater in Detroit. Last week after I learned about her passing I was overwhelmed with grief. I not only cried for the loss of a powerful conservationist and animal advocate, I cried for the loss of hope she brought to so many of us. I struggled to see our future without her quiet wisdom and strength. Over the past few days I have read, watched and listened to every interview that she did over her lifetime. Certain quotes stayed with me and slowly began to bring me comfort. Several days ago a video was released that she instructed Netflix to release after her death. In the video I felt as though she was looking straight at me as she spoke.

“Each and everyone have a role to play, and you are here for a reason. Every single day you make a difference in the world and only you have the choice in the difference you make. Don’t lose hope. We are a part of Mother Nature. You have it in your power to make this world a better place and you have to do everything in your power to make that happen. “

With these words I realized that there was something that I could do to fill the horrible void I felt. My vision for the new Nook program is titled Together We Can Heal. The purpose of this program is to provide healing opportunities at the Nook through experiences spent in nature with wildlife, horses and gardening. These sessions will not only bring peace and healing to the people involved but also to the wildlife and animals.

Over the 15 years I have rehabilitated wildlife, I have witnessed how saving wildlife healed the people who rescued them. When we save another fragile life we ultimately save ourselves. As Jane has repeatedly written “the window of time left to save our planet is closing rapidly.” I choose to look through this window with the light of hope shining through. I believe that with hope to sustain us and by working together we can accomplish amazing things. Therefore, the real question is Will you join me?

The program Together We Can Heal is still in the creative planning stages. The strong healing energy that radiates from the Nook is where this will all begin, and from there the possibilities are endless. I welcome your ideas for this program as it develops over the next few months and I encourage your thoughts and feedback. Although we have a tremendous amount of work to do in the next 6 months I know that Together We Can Heal. The choice is ultimately ours.

With Blessings and Hope,
Cheryl