The Dolphin Affair

Page 67

Write Now

• Think of a time that you have had an encounter with an animal (wild or domestic). Describe one moment.

• Think of what you observed and how the encounter made you feel.

My feet pounded against the pavement as I ran doggedly around the reservoir. My breath eased in and out audibly as I inhaled and exhaled rhythmically. As I turned around the bend I saw her: a pretty doe standing at the edge of the forest. I stopped running as she stared at me (I must have been downwind), but she bolted away anyway, leaping gracefully into the bushes and disappearing. I sighed, feeling like the rest of my day was blessed by her appearance.

Dolphins

• http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QVDLW2S-WpY

• Greenburg was fascinated by dolphins so he signed up for two programs—one in Florida and one in Hawaii. In Florida, the author, accompanied by his family and a photographer, goes to a special enclosure to swim with dolphins, but he is nervous. His anxiety increases as the trainer provides several caveats that stress the danger of the mammals. However, when they enter the water, the dolphins do nothing but swim at the author a few times, despite the family making much noise. After the photographer enters the water, the author and his family realize that the animals are more attracted to his colorful suit and flashy equipment. On the other hand, in Hawaii, the Dolphins at Kewalo Basin have learned signs and commands, demonstrating intelligence and creativity. The author worries that Ellie will reject him, but his fears are unfounded. She responds to his commands and he leaves feeling satisfied with the experience.