Chapter 1: The Foundation of My Passion

Biology encompasses the intricate web of life, integrating the study of animals, plants, humans, and their ecosystems. A biologist seeks to understand all forms of life on our planet, as well as the non-living elements that support existence.

I was fortunate to grow up in a remarkable two-story home featuring a swimming pool, trampoline, bird aviary, and a breathtaking view of a river. My adoptive parents owned an extensive piece of land, along with an additional plot that stretched down to the riverbank.

Reflecting on those days brings me joy. My siblings and I, along with neighborhood friends, spent countless hours playing by the river, catching prawns at night, swimming, and canoeing. I was often captivated by the diverse plants, rocks, and animals surrounding us.

At home, we maintained a miniature “Noah’s Ark.” Our household included silkworms, hermit crabs, various fish, numerous birds, a goose, a pig, cats, dogs, mice, guinea pigs, and horses. I also enjoyed observing snails and bull-ants outdoors.

Our beloved budgerigar, BB, was a special member of the family, despite his twisted leg from an injury. He brought us much joy and warmth. Our outdoor aviary housed finches, canaries, quails, and other delightful birds. I won a guinea pig at school, which I named Guinea Gold, and he lived in a cage within the aviary.

As children, my siblings and I learned to care for animals, immersed in the love and energy provided by our cats and dogs. Among our pets was a pedigree long-haired orange Persian cat named Kreemy Lavendei Konya, whom we affectionately called Charlie. We cherished the moments spent cuddling this noble creature, and I was heartbroken when he was attacked by a dog from the neighborhood.

Our dogs, Tammy and Tina, were stunning red Chow Chows, resembling cuddly bears with their purple tongues. These loyal companions were devoted to our family, often wary of outsiders. There was nothing more comforting than wrapping my arms around one of these gentle giants.

Sharing life with these animals deepened my appreciation for the rich diversity of life on Earth. It sparked my curiosity about how different organisms interact, ultimately leading me to develop an interest in Biology during high school.

As a university Biology student, I embarked on field trips to lakes for research, captured bats in remote areas, and traveled "down South" for my final project. My lifelong exposure to animals cultivated a respect for all creatures, akin to the renowned David Attenborough's approach, though I don't necessarily like all animals.

My childhood taught me valuable lessons about the wonders of life. I learned that silk comes from silkworms, mice can be friendly and clever, birds are incredibly diverse and symbolize freedom, guinea pigs are adorable, geese enjoy snacking on snails, and hermit crabs are fascinating. The immense variety of fish also left me in awe.

These experiences, combined with my appreciation for plants and the natural world, motivated me to pursue a career in Biology. I have delved into the transportation systems of both plants and animals, the microscopic aspects of life, and the essential dependence of humans on the plant kingdom and natural cycles.

During my studies, I encountered Simone Matthew’s concept of plants as “an unfolding of the expression of God.” This perspective is beautiful and profound. Plants serve as Earth's primary producers, embodying the elegance of Creator Source energy. It is crucial to respect our green world and recognize that animals rely on plants for survival.

Biology has also revealed that plants depend on water, sunlight, and nutrients. Humanity bears the responsibility of safeguarding these ecological cycles by understanding our impact on the environment and making sustainable choices.

As a biology student, I explored the flora and fauna of the Perup forest in Western Australia, studying species such as the woylie. I learned techniques like chromatography for separating mixtures, utilized a scanning electron microscope, performed chemical titrations, and so much more.

Biology encompasses everything from Source or Creator God to the elements, molecules, compounds, and atoms that form the basis of life. I view Source as an infinite reservoir of potential and blueprints for both living and non-living forms.

The diverse plants, animals, and people in my childhood, along with the fresh air and natural surroundings, created my own personal "cathedral."

While Biology may not captivate everyone, it serves as the foundation of life itself. Many people have become disconnected from the intricate relationships between plants and non-human animals. We are part of the animal kingdom, Homo sapiens, and should recognize that no life form is inherently more valuable than another.

It is essential for us to reconnect with our origins and understand our evolution, much of which traces back to bacteria that evolved into mitochondria, the powerhouses of our cells. By thinking critically and systematically, we can learn to respect, understand, and nurture our natural world.

I am immensely grateful that my childhood experience with our little “Noah’s Ark” of animals inspired me to become a biologist!

Chapter 2: Videos that Enrich the Understanding of Noah's Ark

To enhance your understanding of the themes explored in this narrative, here are two insightful videos.

The first video, "How Did Noah Fit ALL the Animals on the Ark?" offers an engaging perspective on the biblical story and its implications for understanding animal diversity and conservation.

The second video, "Beware — This Will Change Your Mind on Noah's Ark," challenges conventional views and encourages deeper reflection on the subject.