The Return of the Humans - By Tricia Thomas
September 25, 2020
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It's no secret that arts and culture organizations all over the world have taken a financial hit due to the pandemic. That's why we've started the important discussion of how spaces like museums, zoos, and science centers (to name a few) are not only an integral part of our shared communities, but can also be turned to for personal self-care practices — aiding in our overall mental health and well being.
Our staff has shared a few reflections, but now we're thrilled to share some of the unique perspectives we've received from the public. This week, we're are eager to present Wichitan Tricia Thomas' reflection on arts and culture organizations as self-care spaces.
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Written by: Tricia Thomas
Last Saturday, a friend mentioned to me an interesting factoid about how the recent global pandemic has affected the way in which zoo animals interact with patrons. As a family directly impacted by the pandemic through an unexpected lay off of my partner, full time remote work for me, and the closure of recreational services for my four-year-old, the modified access to the Sedgwick County Zoo has become one of the only ways we have been able to stay grounded.
As we walked through the quiet paths of the zoo my friend said to me, “look at the animals watching us!” I looked and even the snakes were curious! The animals that are always hidden were out watching us with the rapt attention of a paying guest. The giraffes followed our every move; leaning to the side as we rounded the bend out of sight.
Shortly after, my friend went on to explain that recent zoo closures, while not negatively impactful to the animals, have reportedly resulted in an unusual level of curiosity among zoo animals who are witnessing the “return of the humans.”
As my four-year-old, “ninja mask” wearing son barreled around the corner of a zoo path, he stopped abruptly at a small patch of daisies. We both admired their beauty and the hidden grasshoppers balanced among them. We stopped for a quick picture to remind ourselves of the day, then moved along.
Now, fully enmeshed in my post-remote work day routine — which consists of clean, feed, sleep, and repeat — I try to remind myself of my trip to the zoo. I remind myself that even in times of unprecedented uncertainty (with the added layer of social and political unrest) our family and our community can’t help but lean on experiences like going to the zoo, parks, and museums to help buffer us against the chaos.
I stare at the pictures while I wait for my spaghetti to come to a boil and remember these moments where my family took some easy breaths, felt the sun on our faces, and appreciated the world around us. No social media, no bad news, no devices.
The animals are waiting for the return of the humans; our family will do our part to make sure they aren’t disappointed.
(Photos courtesy of Tricia Thomas.)
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We're currently collecting more self-care in arts and culture blog entries, and we'd love to hear from you!
How have places like museums, zoos, science centers, and aquariums (to name a few) impacted the way you learn, discover passions, or interact with the world? Help us amplify why these places matter by sharing the unique perspective only YOU can share!
Have questions that need answered? Please email Amy Emerson at marketing@worldtreasures.org.
