Rachel Carson (1907-1964), “Voice for the Earth,” was an author and scientist whose courage, selfless spirit, and sense of wonder inspired the modern environmental movement. Her books about nature helped people realize our interconnectedness with the world of plants and animals. In 1951, her book The Sea Around Us was published. It remained on The New York Times best-seller list for 81 weeks and was translated into 32 languages. In 1962, Carson wrote Silent Spring, a book that spoke courageously about the irresponsible use of poisonous chemicals. Though powerful chemical companies labeled her an alarmist, her book awakened millions of people to the importance of caring for the planet. In 1980, the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States, was awarded in her memory.
The more clearly we can focus our attention on the wonders and realities of the universe about us,
the less taste we shall have for destruction.—RachelCarson
Interconnected
(By Jonathan Sprout and Dave Kinnoin)
We are born with a sense of wonder—
Folded buds ready for the spring,
Strands in the web of life.
A fresh, new, beautiful view
Is ours to see. We’ll always be…
Refrain: Interconnected, one and all.
Interconnected, big and small.
Actions we take affect every living thing.
Listen. Sing!
Interconnected in this biosphere.
Interconnected. The truth is clear:
The balance of nature must be protected.
We are interconnected.
As we stand with the sea around us,
We can feel the rhythm of the waves
That flowed into Rachel’s heart.
Hopes stir, thinking of her
And what she would give that we may live…
Refrain
Bridge: Earth, sea, sky,
Plants, animals, you and I.
Refrain
©2014 Kanukatunes (ASCAP) and Song Wizard Music (ASCAP)
Lead vocal: Jonathan Sprout
Drum programming, pianos, and percussion: Joe Mennonna
Bass: Ernest Poccia
Guitars: Leslie Chew and Jonathan Sprout
Background vocals: Susie Stevens and Jimmy Hammer
