Thinking Deeper

Think back to the last time you were at a zoo. What do you remember thinking? Do you remember what was going through your thought’s. If you can think of anything at all you are probably one of the few. And if you do remember what you were consciously aware during your visit it may have been about what your favorite animal was, or maybe which was the most frightening. My point is that the memory most likely had something to do with the entertainment aspect of the zoo. But they run much deeper than that.

                Next time you go to a zoo take time to look around at the people around you who are taking in the same sights. Chances are you will see more kids than adults. Now ask yourself, “Why kids?” ”Why does the zoo appeal to the younger population?” The answer is closer than you think.

                Dive into your own childhood and try to remember what made your very first trips to the zoo so important to you. I think we can all relate in the same way when I say the zoo peaked our curiosity. We all felt the need to see and learn about all the new things at the zoo. The zoo could be seen as one of the pivotal places of learning, especially to a child. It is one of the first experiences we all have with the “rest of the world.” It is an awe inspiring feeling to think that these animals came from every corner of the planet. As a child the zoo puts into perspective how big the world really is.

                As you grow older the learning experience starts to dissipate and the zoo starts to become more of an avenue of entertainment. Most adults who attend the zoo are there with their kids, and it’s kind of funny to see the big difference in levels of enthusiasm between the two. For the parent it’s sort of like “been there, done that” whereas for the young mind it’s more of a “so much to do, so little time!” type of experience.

                Next time you go to the zoo remember its purpose, remember to respect the learning experience of the young people. Feed their enthusiasm for learning, and let that same enthusiasm spark a fire in you. You were young once, don’t forget that.

Posted by Ben Keller