Ecology (4) (To be placed on UN grounds on November
5, 1998)
BRONZ ELEPHANT AT UNITED NATIONS
This bronz cast of a large elephant who lived in Nepal is here at the United Nations to remind
people of every creed and culture of the wonder of life on our planet.
The elephant is both Earth's largest land mammal and a most interesting animal. Its skin, trunk
and tusks give it unique abilities. Its brain, four times larger than ours, provides some superior
senses. No animal has a better nose! The elephant is an icon of the mystery of life. The more
we learn the greater the mystery and our desire to know more.
The United Nations Peace Bell provides an icon of inner peace. The soldier beating his sword
into a plowshare urges us to convert technology from war to peace.
The elephant reminds us that to assure a future for the human adventure we must now act as
Trustees of Earth. We must protect and nurture the amazing web of life that covers our globe --
and assure the elephant a future on our planet.
John McConnell