Raindrops splash into the ocean
The physics of the splash creates a central column that rises briefly above the surface
Individual molecules that made up both the drop and the splash become indistinguishable in the ocean
And are lost forever to endless cycles of evaporation and precipitation
Be the splash
Be the tip of that splash briefly above the surface and gaze out at the immensity of the ocean
But know also that you are the ocean
Be the ocean
Be the thunderstorm
Be a swamp teaming with life
Be the trickle of a mountain stream
Be a cool, refreshing drink
A colleague of mine stated that “Carl made an art form out of retirement with a well-thought out purpose and joy.” I quote her because I cannot summarize it any better. His post-retirement years were spent tending a thriving garden and serving as a master naturalist after graduating from the Fall of 2012 Class.
His love of working on controlled burns earned him the Choctaw name, Yakni Hokmi (Earth Scorcher), from his Choctaw friend, Yukpah Nishkin (Jerri-Ann). He served actively in Charleston Water Keepers, Shorebird Stewards with Audubon, Community Collaborative Rain, Hail, and Snow, SCDNR, and the Native Plant Society.
From December 2012 – June 2020 Carl logged over 2690 hours of service. In honor of Carl and his incredible dedication, the CMNA has created the CCSA which will be awarded to one of our deserving volunteers each January at the Annual General Meeting.
~ Kristina Wheeler
