Wild Neighbors
March 18, 2026
Lower Case Liminality
April 1, 2026
I began this series with a love letter to mangroves. After weeks of research and reflection I am more deeply in love. These watery forests are powerful carbon sinks in this warming world and shelter far more species than I knew. Each scrubby tree makes a difference. I find this reassuring; I can make a difference being me. I don’t have to fix all the problems: I can notice the ecosystems I am part of, be myself, and connect with others to co-create healthy environments. One root and one leaf at a time mangroves shelter new life, protect the shore from storms, and provide a fascinating place to rest and restore. I can consider my own nature and find ways to make a difference.
We can apply lessons learned from studying the mangroves to our own lives.
Notice More
Take some time to observe your world as if you were an outsider. You are connected to large systems that are outside of your control: geopolitics, weather patterns, and social media. Closer, you are part of various groups in your city, work, or larger organizations. Your smallest circle are those friends, family, and neighbors you interact with often. The dot in the middle is you – your health, thoughts, and needs. You impact and are impacted by each of these levels. Noticing your role and opportunities allows you to consider where to double down and where to seek change. Paying attention to the waters you swim in is the first step.
Do You
Mangroves don’t strive to be oak trees living on land and growing acorns. They make a difference being themselves in their watery subtropical home. As you notice your ecosystems, consider which are the better fit for you at this point in your life. You cannot change the big systems, but you can shift into different roles and make changes in your micro-climate. Like the raccoon, you can climb, swim, and walk to explore places that might be a better fit. As a human, you can think about what works for you so that you can make changes or seek to adapt the space you are in to be a better fit. Appreciate who you are and the journey you are on. When you engage with others using your strengths, you build up positive communities that make a difference. As life changes, your roles and contributions will also change.
Connect
The mangroves in Key West join together to protect the nearby waters and impact global carbon levels. Your personal network of friends and neighbors, colleagues, and family are where you have the greatest influence. Deepening connections and building positive routines with your inner circle makes a difference while spreading ripples beyond your awareness. Even casual connections make the world a better place. Connecting with those who support and care for you allows you to co-create systems that support peace and resilience in this world.
I am looking forward to my next visit to the mangrove forests of Key West. I am also paying closer attention to the natural and human ecosystems all around me. There is much that we do not control, and yet by being ourselves we can build life-giving places. We can co-create ecosystems that support our own growth, the well-being of others, and make a difference in the larger world. There is power in noticing the systems around you, being your own self, and connecting with others. You don’t have to be anyone other than your own self to help build resilient ecosystems all around you.
Peace,
Laura
