The Gopher Tortoise is a keystone species here in Florida. The absence of Gopher Tortoises would be greatly missed.
Gopher Tortoises are land turtles who dig burrows to live in and take refuge. When a bad storm arrives, like a hurricane, many other species seek refuge in those burrows. You can find a mouse sitting with a snake and a baby bird, all respecting each other and all waiting out the storm.
Their burrows can be as long as 40 feet and as deep as 10 feet. That’s pretty amazing for the little guy who is only about 12-14 inches long and weighs about10-12 pounds.
How does he do it?
Well, he faithfully goes on about his life eating, sleeping, and digging. Does he know that he is creating a place for many wild animals during a fire or hurricane? I don’t know.
You can learn more about the gopher tortoise here: https://youtu.be/1lgeHra0ZCA
And a video just for kids: https://youtu.be/z22rhMVw_Wk
The Gopher Tortoise may not realize what he is doing, but you and I know we are pouring into our children so that they will stand strong in life one day.
We can be purposeful like the gopher tortoise by living a life that is centered on Christ and full of His love. Sometimes as parents we can feel invisible and that no one knows what we do or how hard we work on behalf of the people we love.
Our labor of love is building tunnels of safety. And when storms blow and fires rage, our children will seek out the tunnels of wisdom and truth found in God’s Word.
Your children are watching you live and lean on the Lord’s love and Word. Don’t ever minimize the power of your godly example and kindness. Your love will always be your children’s safe place. Children know inside that no one loves them more than Mom and Dad.
Keep digging! Your love is a keystone in your children’s lives. 🐢💛 🐢
Until next time, Happy Homeschooling!
Meredith Curtis
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