A recent study published in Nature reveals some troubling news for our Gulf of Mexico neighbors. Over the past decade, many of our beloved sea creatures have been disappearing from the waters[3].
The study found that since the Deepwater Horizon oil spill in 2010, the numbers of several types of whales and dolphins have dropped dramatically. Some species, like the Gervais’ beaked whale, have declined by up to 83%[3]. That’s a huge loss for our underwater community.
Now, y’all might be wondering, “What does this mean for us spiritually?” Well, as many of us know, nature and spirituality are deeply connected. Our relationship with the natural world can bring us closer to the divine and help us find peace[4].
When we lose these magnificent creatures, we’re not just losing animals – we’re losing a piece of ourselves. As Jesus said in the Gospel of Mary Magdalene, “All that is born, all that is created, all the elements of nature are interwoven and united with each other.”[2] These whales and dolphins are our brothers and sisters in the great web of life.
This loss should remind us of our responsibility to care for all. It’s a call to action – to recognize the sacredness of all life[2].
But there’s hope, too. The study shows that some species, like sperm whales in certain areas, are actually increasing[3]. This reminds us that Gaia has the power to heal and recover, if we give it a chance.
As we reflect on this news, let’s remember that our spiritual well-being is tied to the health of our environment. By protecting our Gulf and its creatures, we’re not just saving animals – we’re nurturing our own souls and honoring the divine in all things[6].
Citations:
[1] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8125471/
[2] https://livingthelifeofspirit.com/2013/08/17/nature-a-more-expansive-spirituality/
[3] https://www.nature.com/articles/s43247-024-01920-8
[4] https://onlinedegrees.sandiego.edu/nature-spirituality/
[5] https://skepticalscience.com/new_research_2024_4.html
[6] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8651234/
[7] https://www.researchgate.net/publication/387299803_A_decade_of_declines_in_toothed_whale_densities_following_the_Deepwater_Horizon_oil_spill
[8] https://fullfocusplanner.com/nature-going-outdoors/
[9] https://academic.oup.com/book/12877/chapter-abstract/163206897
