Welcome to my blog where I will be bringing you updates from my life. But first, let me cite a paragraph from my own book Reflections of Eden. I hope that my blog will present my feelings and some insightful reflections on the issues facing orangutans and forests as well as Borneo and its native people, the Dayaks.
“Our departure from Eden allows us reflection – reflection on our origin and our relations to other creatures, reflection on good and evil, and ultimately, reflection on the possibility that we are engineering our own extinction. Never having left Eden, our innocent pongid kin are not burdened with this knowledge and the responsibility it entails. Looking into the calm, unblinking eyes of an orangutan we see, as through a series of mirrors, not only the image of our own creation but also a reflection of our own souls and an Eden that once was ours. And on occasion, fleetingly, just for a nanosecond, but with an intensity that is shocking in its profoundness, we recognize that there is no separation between ourselves and nature. We are allowed to see the eyes of God.” (excerpt from Refelctions of Eden)
Scientist, conservationist, educator: for almost four decades Dr. Biruté Mary Galdikas has studied and worked closely with the orangutans of Indonesian Borneo in their natural habitat, and is today the world’s foremost authority on the orangutan.
May 25th, 2009 at 4:53 pm
Congrats on your first post on a blog..its very nice to see someone who has dedicated there life to helping animals survive such humans cruelty and carelessness. I would have to agree with you that Chris, Janet and Linda are a great team of supporters in your field.
After working with Chris,Janet for the last 10 years i have learned very much about OFI
Mike Mikha
June 2nd, 2009 at 4:01 pm
When I read your first blog entry mentioning Eden, it reminded me of a poem I wrote many years ago at the end of one of my many trips to Indonesia and had read at a farewell party before leaving for home. The message of the poem means even more now, especially these lines which I think of when reading ongoing articles about forest destruction in Indonesia….”Where is that Eden once throughout this land—What have we done, we creatures known as man.” We all must keep doing whatever we can to save these magnificient orangutans from extinction. From the very beginning of your research many years ago, you have been, and continue to be, an amazing example of what one person can do to generate the support needed to turn the tide. My hat goes off to you.
June 16th, 2009 at 1:04 pm
Dear Birute,
Can’t believe I stumbled on your wonderful blog less than a month after it was started.
Your work and your energy continue to amaze me, and serves as a wonderful example of what one person can do to save our planet, and the wonderful wildlife that inhabits it.
Thank you for all you do, and all you are. Fondly, Janice Gleason Skow
December 29th, 2009 at 1:21 am
Have just seen and heard about the wonderful and inspiring work you have been doing all these years. My heart felt wishes to you and I hope my donation to OFI and support will help make a difference. One day I may be priviledged enough to see these amazing animals in person. I will keep vigilant in waiting for your blogs and newsletter.
Warmest wishes for the season,
Sincerely, Rae
January 1st, 2010 at 6:52 am
I too am excited to find this blog! Thank you for posting!
February 16th, 2010 at 12:38 pm
Dear Dr. Galdikas,
I have written a comedy film featuring orangutans. I would love to partner with a worthy organization that seeks to save the orangutans. I think 50 percent of the profits could be put towards that goal.
My question to you is: Who could you reccomend that I contact in pursuit of getting a movie such as this made? I would love my film to become a vessel of hope for the plight of the orangutans. I think more people would become aware of the needs of the orangutans in these desparate times of trouble.
I wait patiently for your response.
thank you,
shane
June 16th, 2009 at 3:30 pm
Thank you very much for your kind words! It’s good to reconnect with you. I will send you an e-mail. Birute
June 16th, 2009 at 3:48 pm
Dear Carol: I remember your poem very well! It made an impression on me. I hope that you will continue to visit the orangutans. Thank you for all your continuing support over all these years!
Birute
June 22nd, 2009 at 8:01 pm
Congrads on your new blog