Sometimes It's the Simple Things

Last year sometime I wrote a post about how I suspect being an environmentalist and mildly politically minded and caring about the planet and people on it a little too much was probably contributing to my depression. Seeing all the horrible ways we're hurting each other and the planet causes me to lose all hope in humanity at least once a week.

I am at a mold conference this week (yes, that's a thing) however, and yesterday something amazing happened. I attended a paper presentation that gave hope for combating two extremely devastating ecological disasters occurring currently: the loss of bees due to colony collapse caused by mold, and white nose syndrome which is killing whole bat colonies in cave systems all across the United States. 

Hearing this one small (less than 15 minutes) talk about something hopeful made my whole day. Especially as it followed a depressing discussion about how now snakes are dying from fungal infections in mass quantities as well. I was rejuvenated to discover that not all news these days is bad news.

My good mood could also be because I'm at a professional conference building contacts and learning new things. So often in my everyday life I feel like I'm trapped and stagnating without creative outlets or professional and personal development opportunities. Of course, being around all these academics makes me wish I had gone on and finished a PhD, but there's still time!

Now in the wee hours of what is looking like it's going to be another gorgeous morning before my first symposium of the day, I'm feeling optimistic. I have possibilities ahead of me, and if I work hard enough and stay dedicated, I can develop the freedom to pursue whatever I choose. <3

Chilling with Sparty!