What inspires you? Is it an experience, a person, an idea?
Is it nature or art? Is it something else? I believe the natural world enhances
the experience of being human. For me, beauty in nature inspires awe, wonder
and curiosity. Experiencing nature connects me to a better, fuller life. Nature
is at the core of the Aquarium; each animal and exhibit offers a glimpse of the
wild.
North Carolina
Aquariums’ mission statement reads: “Inspiring appreciation and conservation of
aquatic environments.” Is an Aquarium visit inspiring?
When you step in to the first Aquarium building at Fort
Fisher a waterfall, trees and free-roaming birds greet you. Does the transition
change how you feel? Are you more attuned to life around you in a new way?
Watch as little kid faces press against exhibits, reaching to get closer to
life on the other side. Eye-to-eye and nose-to-nose people connect with animals
at every turn. Are they inspired and if so, to what end?
As you move from freshwater swamps and rivers, to the
coastal and marine building does the change in lighting and sound affect you?
Again and again visitors share stories of special shared moments touching
animals and engaging with staff. What is it about connecting with
animals that is so compelling and appealing? Is the experience as powerful
if it isn’t shared?
Standing next to a wall of water teaming with fish, joined
occasionally by a curious green sea turtle, do you feel transported to an
underwater world? Is it calming, frightening, inspiring? What is it that draws
you to glimpse under the surface of the sea?
Answers to the question of why you visit, if you visit, the
Aquarium at Fort Fisher surely varies and I’d love to know. For me, the
connection to animals and people - visitors and staff – improves my quality of
life and inspires me every day.
-Peggy Sloan
Director, NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher
