What Steve Irwin taught us
Steve Irwin died September 4, 2006 when a stingray's barb pierced his chest. While I only watched one or two episodes of The Crocodile Hunter's exploits (and, frankly, considered him a little crazy, though undeniably passionate about wildlife), he was, without a doubt, unique. He brought wildlife into the homes of millions of people across the world, and he taught those who cared to learn a valuable lesson. With his trusted companion Sui at his side, he wrestled Crocodiles and braved Australia's wilderness. In one video, I watched Steve Irwin wrestle a huge male Crocodile into a boat then onto the shore. Sui remained by his side the entire time, just out of reach of the Crocodile's jaws while she periodically nipped at the animal's tail to turn him away from Irwin.
Irwin made no secret that he loved Sui. In fact, he seemed to love all animals, big and small. His message to the world was one of conservation. Animals deserve respect. Humanity must work to preserve the creatures and wildlife that exist. Extinction is a very sad thing, especially when caused by human hands.
His lesson, however, hasn't reached everyone. In fact, if Irwin were to have visited some parts of the world with his sidekick Sui, he'd find his faithful companion confiscated and possibly even put to death for what she was -- a Staffordshire Bull Terrier cross.
Steve Irwin tried to teach the world to love and respect all creatures. His passion for animals was undeniable, his love for Sui complete. I can only hope that enough people have heard his message.
Unfortunately, it's too late for many of Sui's canine kin all over the world. Ironically, even Irwin's homeland, Australia, has lashed out at Sui's kind, creating laws that target "pit bulls." In the United States, places like Denver, Colorado kill "pit bulls" on sight, even wonderful dogs like Sui. I can only hope that, someday, Sui's kind isn't just a distant memory.
Irwin never blamed an animal whenever one injured him. He always knew where to place the blame -- with a human.
Thank you, Steve Irwin, for trying.
