Unspoken army.

As I stood there, I witnessed that young calf's joyful leaps in the middle of the bay. This playful baby was exploring around without a care in the world. And while I was capturing these moments through my camera lens, a thought crossed my mind: this calf is going to live approximately for 70 years. Or at least that’s the expectation. When I grow old and become a grandmother, this spirited youngster will be in the final stage of his life, possibly even with offspring and grandchildren of his own. I like to think my grandchildren will meet theirs. I like to think things will be different for them. That humans and the ocean will have a healthier and more harmonious relationship.

I wish future generations be able to witness a whale’s majestic splash every time it jumps. And get soaked in it. I want them to experience that profound connection of having a whale shark looking right into their eyes. I hope they feel the heart-pounding wonder of a sea lion pup trusting them enough to let them play along with it. And I want them to feel their chest explode with awe and happiness, cherishing the immense gratitude that comes from being a witness to these moments.

And I don't want to cross my arms and do nothing for this to happen. And I need people to realize how dangerous it is to cross arms and be indifferent.

If my grandchildren don’t get to know animals that do exist today and they ever ask me what I did to safeguard the animals they now only hear about in stories, I want to be able to answer without disappointing them.

Despite the daunting challenges in the present, there are countless individuals making conscientious decisions and taking action to protect our natural world. Don't be deceived into thinking that if it's not on social media, it's not happening.

Numerous anonymous heroes are working tirelessly behind the scenes. We are a collective force, an unspoken army that, even without knowing each other, our combined strength is monumental.

And we are going to make it.

And one day, when this baby whale reaches the end of its long journey and departs this world in peace, I want him to know it leaves behind a legacy of a conscious and healthier world—not just for its own kin, but for all living beings that inhabit this magnificent blue planet.