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May 16th
2:00 PM-
2009 Keynote Speech
gA White Gift from the Arctich
by Lisa Vogt
Co-sponsor Shumei International
"A White Gift from the Arctic", By Lisa Vogt
Seeing polar bears in their natural habitat is awe-inspiring. Watching them hunt, play, rest, roam... With their nose in the air, they catch faint distant smells. With their small ears, they listen for sounds in the quiet stillness. They feel the earth, the ice and snow with their gigantic paws, and occasionally with their whole body. Cubs let their mother know that they love her by licking and rubbing their faces onto hers. Curious bears come up to me to check me out, and upon sensing that I'm just another living being sharing space on this planet, they turn around and leave, satisfied. Some decide to hang around, and telepathically with our eyes we exchange greetings and chat for a while.
These photographs that the bears allowed me to take of them have given me the opportunity to meet many lovely people who have touched me in numerous ways. This photo exhibition would not have materialized if it weren't for the warm, generous, tireless individuals who selflessly gave of themselves to make it a reality. I couldn't have imagined such an unfolding of events and relationships while shooting the photographs, as I repeatedly went up to the Arctic only to connect with these magnificent creatures simply because of my love and adoration of them, and with really nothing more in mind.
gPrecioush - When connecting with polar bears, this is the word that resonates throughout my being. I am filled with gratitude to be in this place of receiving so much. It is my hope that you will feel something stir within you upon seeing the exhibition, and if it feels right, that you do something-- write, paint, make music, visit the library or share yourself with another. And, if you feel an inkling of warmness within, know that that is the spirit of the polar bear. A gift, just as you and I are gifts--gifts to all that is, and isn't! May you feel the gift of being connected and moved in some way.
A special heartfelt appreciation to the people at Shumei International Institute in Crestone Center!
With respect, tenderness and a polar bear hug,
Lisa Vogt
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