The more often we see things, the more invisible they become to us. While that idea may seem contradictory and paradoxical, there’s a kernel of truth in it if you consider an example. Take nature.
Every day we constantly come into contact with the natural world, but we hardly ever seem to notice it. Being awakened by the sun has become a humdrum part of our mornings. The throngs of trees we pass during our daily commutes are not considered spectacular sights worthy of our attention, but are rather considered things that are familiar, commonplace, and just, well, there. Even the birds we encounter during our lunch breaks have ceased to become natural wonders, transforming into animals that we simply expect to be around.
While nature continues to play a central role in our lives—providing aesthetic and recreational value, resources, etc.—that importance has become less recognized and more backgrounded. That is why the Elizabeth River Project has decided to create its “What the Elizabeth Means to Me” contest.
In the Hampton Roads area, the Elizabeth River is arguably one of the most important natural sites. As a center of commercial, industrial, and military activity, and as a source of relaxation, fun, and pure beauty, the River has a status as one of the area’s most desired and needed resources. In an effort to have individuals reconsider (or remember) their connection to the Elizabeth, the Elizabeth River Project has produced its most recent contest where we prompt individuals to ask themselves one question: What does the Elizabeth River mean to me?
To enter, individuals are first asked to view our most recently released video—“Elizabeth River Project, ‘Making Restoration a Reality’”—which visually documents the history of the Elizabeth River and also the emergence of the Elizabeth River Project. After, individuals are asked to leave a comment under the video describing what the Elizabeth means to them (by midnight EST on July 12th). Following July 12th, the Elizabeth River Project staff will review the qualifying comments and choose their favorite to win a pair of tickets from the Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium.
Overall, we at the Elizabeth River Project hope to use the “What the Elizabeth Means to Me” contest as a starting point to initiate a dialogue regarding how we view and relate to the natural world. From the Elizabeth River to that one tree in your backyard, we hope to make nature significant and visible again.
Guest blog contributed by Amirio Freeman, a College of William & Mary undergraduate student and Social-Media/Grassroots Outreach Intern for the Elizabeth River Project.