Friends May Newsletter
Greetings!
Often times I am asked about the Friends mission, and what it means to me. There is an assumption that although we may read the same words, their interpretation can vary person to person. Last month, I hosted a panel discussion with leading environmentalists in the Virgin Islands to explore this very topic – the role of language on conservation work in the Virgin Islands.
As I marched alongside hundreds of youth during the annual Earth Day Litter Stomp Parade in Cruz Bay, it became clear to me that our collective efforts to plant, grow, nurture, and love our environment transcend language. We all play a vital role as members of the Friends to deliver on the organization’s mission, in our own way. Joe Kessler, President of the Friends (2002-2019) remarked on this in his retirement speech. At the time I felt it lessened his monumental achievements at the helm of the Friends. After all, he had seen the park go anchorless and established the Park’s archeology program, among many other achievements. However, Joe knew that his most valuable contributions came in the form of the love and friendship he bestowed on those around him.
It is with a heavy heart that I share the news of Joe and Cristina Kessler passing on from this Earth together. They were fulfilling their dreams in retirement to visit all of our nation’s national parks. From the Litter Stomp Parade to journeys down memory lane, I am reminded of the continuum of this life in these moments. That which we put forth out of love grows, and from that gift of giving ourselves, legacies are born.
Both Joe and Cristina touched a lot of lives for the better. I do not think I am alone in feeling deep gratitude in knowing them both. Friends will celebrate their legacies at this year’s Beach-to-Beach Power Swim, Joe’s signature event.
