During a recent road trip through the National Parks, journalist and academic Wafa Unus, Ph.D., explored the profound lessons that nature can offer to those in the reporting field. With her husband, Unus visited several parks, absorbing the beauty of each destination while emphasizing the importance of observation in journalism.
Nature as a Teacher for Journalists
In her reflections, Unus articulated that the most valuable takeaway from their journey was not merely the photographs or park stamps collected but rather the practice of deep observation. For journalists, this skill is foundational. While a casual observer might admire a stunning vista, a reporter is compelled to ask critical questions: How did this landscape form? What events have shaped it? What stories lie hidden beneath the surface?
Unus pointed out that National Parks serve as more than just scenic retreats; they function as living laboratories. Traditionally viewed as venues for scientific research in geology and ecology, these parks provide crucial insights into environmental changes and the fragility of ecosystems. Research conducted in these areas has influenced important developments, from medical breakthroughs to a deeper understanding of nature’s complexities.
For journalists, these natural settings offer an opportunity to hone their skills. Even if a report does not mention specific environmental features, spending time in nature enhances a reporter’s ability to observe and interpret the world. Unus emphasized that qualities such as patience, attention, and humility are essential tools for any reporter, and nature can sharpen these attributes.
Understanding the Stories Behind the Landscape
Unus described nature as an archive of history. Tree rings reveal years of climate cycles, while glaciers encapsulate centuries of atmospheric change. The placement of deserts indicates the remnants of ancient seas. Each geological feature narrates a story of time, change, and resilience. For journalists, this understanding translates into a more profound inquiry into communities and events.
For instance, a public square might serve as a vibrant gathering space, but it also reflects the decisions that led to its construction—decisions shaped by the values and power dynamics of the community. Unus reminded her peers that the allure of a public spectacle often obscures the deeper narrative threads that define it.
Through her observations in the parks, Unus reinforced the importance of looking beyond the obvious. The grandeur of a canyon, for example, is not solely in its size but also in the layers that tell the story of time and erosion. This same concept applies to human interactions and societal structures. The ability to listen and observe quietly can yield insights that are often overlooked.
“To report from a field,” Unus explained, “is to recognize that the world exists independently of our presence.” She encouraged journalists to immerse themselves in environments that don’t seek their attention, allowing them to witness the unfolding narratives at their own pace. This practice not only benefits the journalist’s ego but also serves the mission of effective reporting.
Unus concluded that sometimes the most effective lessons for reporters come not from formal settings, such as press conferences, but from the natural world. Observing a fallen tree or a volcanic ridge can provide insights into the discipline of waiting and the importance of being a patient witness.
In her exploration of the National Parks, Wafa Unus highlights an essential truth: the act of observing nature can profoundly enrich the craft of journalism, transforming mere attention into meaningful reporting.