The Anthropause the Anthropause Tea Party Tea Party

The AnThropAuse The Anthropause Tea Party TeA pArTy

Roger L. White, M.D.

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ISBN: 978-1-6655-0433-1 (sc) ISBN: 978-1-6655-0432-4 (e)

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Published by AuthorHouse 10/15/2020 This story is for my grandson, Rohan. Like most children, the COVID-19 pandemic limited his access to traditional teaching. But learning never needs to stop. It has no artificial boundaries. Big Rat, the main character in this story, is a curious teacher. His insights about the pandemic give a viewpoint that can be both comforting and inspirational for children during anxious times. Big Rat gives hope for the future with many timeless messages.

This is a fictional child’s book based on real animals. It takes place in Hawaii in 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic. The protagonist is a character called Big Rat. During the pandemic, he invites his animal friends to his home for a proper English-style tea party to discuss what is going on with human beings. His guests include a Hawaiian monk seal, a mongoose, a lizard, a chicken, and a duck. Their insights shared over tea and scones are both intriguing and give hope for the future.

Chapter 1 The AnThropAuse Begins

anthropology: The study of human behaviors and characteristics.

anthropause: A pause or major reduction in usual human activities that affects the environment.

There once was a rat named Big Rat. Big Rat had lived and interacted with humans for many years. Through keen observations, he knew their behaviors well. Some would even call him an amateur anthropologist. He lived a peaceful life in a cute little plantation-style cottage within a very popular tourist resort in Hawaii.

Big Rat’s little cottage was on the golf course at the resort. Directly across from his inconspicuous little cottage were three world-class hotels, pristine beach lagoons, numerous gourmet restaurants, and shops to cater to any tourist’s desire. The tourists constantly scurried like rats all day from one attraction to another.

- 1 - Big Rat enjoyed the holiday atmosphere. His hobby was to study human behaviors. As an amateur anthropologist, he took notes of his observations to use in one of his future books. Big Rat’s well-known books were read by both rats and humans. He enjoyed writing about his many years of travel and experiences. But even after seventy years, he was about to learn something new about humans.

So began another typical day for Big Rat. Or so he thought.

Big Rat ate his usual breakfast of cooked oatmeal with lusciously ripe orange papaya, crisp walnuts, cinnamon, and milk. Then Big Rat ate a little piece of his favorite hard cheese. He savored each bite. His nutritious breakfast filled him with optimism as he gradually woke up.

Big Rat liked to eat his breakfast outside on his sunny lanai. (Lanai is a Hawaiian word for “patio” or “veranda.”) From there he watched the movements of palm trees along the golf course. They perfectly captured the ocean and mountain breezes. The gentle breezes made the palm trees dance like ballet dancers. They were always in complete harmony with the environment.

Nearby small yellow birds welcomed the morning sunrise with songs of praise. Big Rat admired their devotion and consistency. Sometimes he whistled back to the birds to create playful duets.

- 2 - Big Rat enjoyed the holiday atmosphere. His hobby was to study With his tummy full and spirit primed with good thoughts, Big Rat was human behaviors. As an amateur anthropologist, he took notes of his ready to begin his daily beachfront walk. What would he observe today? observations to use in one of his future books. Big Rat’s well-known books were read by both rats and humans. He enjoyed writing about This idyllic beautiful morning would bring a big surprise. There were no his many years of travel and experiences. But even after seventy years, tourists to be seen! he was about to learn something new about humans. “Perhaps today is a holiday that I forgot,” Big Rat wondered aloud. “Maybe So began another typical day for Big Rat. Or so he thought. everyone is still sleeping. Or perhaps the coast has been evacuated because of a tsunami warning. But I didn’t hear any siren warning.” Big Rat ate his usual breakfast of cooked oatmeal with lusciously ripe orange papaya, crisp walnuts, cinnamon, and milk. Then Big Rat ate a Curious, Big Rat looked behind every beach umbrella, every rock, every little piece of his favorite hard cheese. He savored each bite. His nutritious bush, and every outdoor restaurant. However, no tourists were to be breakfast filled him with optimism as he gradually woke up. found anywhere, not even the tiniest child.

Big Rat liked to eat his breakfast outside on his sunny lanai. (Lanai is Big Rat grew concerned. a Hawaiian word for “patio” or “veranda.”) From there he watched the Everything was dead still. Big Rat could smell fear in the air. It was a smell he movements of palm trees along the golf course. They perfectly captured had never experienced before in Hawaii. What happened to all the tourists? the ocean and mountain breezes. The gentle breezes made the palm trees dance like ballet dancers. They were always in complete harmony Big Rat returned to his cottage. He looked for his human neighbors in with the environment. adjacent cottages.

Nearby small yellow birds welcomed the morning sunrise with songs of Although people generally do not like rats, Big Rat was an exception. He praise. Big Rat admired their devotion and consistency. Sometimes he got along well with humans. They enjoyed his keen sense of humor. They whistled back to the birds to create playful duets. enjoyed listening to Big Rat’s stories about his years of interesting travels and adventures. He certainly was their favorite rat. They considered him almost an equal.

- 2 - - 3 - But this morning there were no neighbors walking on the street. Big Rat only caught an occasional glimpse of neighbors peeking out their windows. No one went to work or school. There was no traffic. What was going on? An eerie quiet was present everywhere.

Finally, Big Rat saw a neighbor walking toward him. It was Lydia, a nice elderly lady who often talked with him and gave him little pieces of tasty cheese. Big Rat perked up in anticipation of the cheese.

But Lydia suddenly crossed the street to avoid Big Rat. She diligently walked straight ahead as if she were marching. There would be no tasty cheese or discussion today.

And what was Lydia wearing on her face? It looked like the kind of mask that doctors and nurses wore at the hospital. But Big Rat knew Lydia was not in the medical profession. He thought maybe she had a front tooth pulled and did not want anyone to see the gap. Or maybe Lydia was practicing for Halloween. But she was very somber. She was not behaving at all like the usually friendly and loquacious Lydia.

Big Rat saw a few other neighbors out for walks. They all walked alone and kept their distance from each other. And just as Lydia had, they avoided Big Rat. As he approached, the humans all walked to the other side of the street, making a big arc around him. They, too, wore surgical- type masks on their faces. Some even wore latex gloves and avoided

- 4 - But this morning there were no neighbors walking on the street. Big touching anything. His neighbors reacted to Big Rat as if he had a Rat only caught an occasional glimpse of neighbors peeking out their communicable disease. windows. No one went to work or school. There was no traffic. What was This is absurd. going on? An eerie quiet was present everywhere. Big Rat thought, He said indignantly to himself, “I am very healthy. I am very hygienic. I do not smell or have bad breath. Why would Finally, Big Rat saw a neighbor walking toward him. It was Lydia, a nice people want to avoid a lovable rat like me?” elderly lady who often talked with him and gave him little pieces of tasty cheese. Big Rat perked up in anticipation of the cheese. Suddenly some dust blew up Big Rat’s nose. It tickled. He felt a huge, uncontrollable sneeze coming on. Then came a sudden loud achoo! But Lydia suddenly crossed the street to avoid Big Rat. She diligently walked straight ahead as if she were marching. There would be no tasty That sneeze sent every neighbor in sight scattering for cover. They ran cheese or discussion today. back to their houses as if a bomb had gone off. Displeased, Big Rat exclaimed, “All that fuss because of my innocent little sneeze.” And what was Lydia wearing on her face? It looked like the kind of mask that doctors and nurses wore at the hospital. But Big Rat knew Lydia was Big Rat was confused by how the humans were behaving. He knew not in the medical profession. He thought maybe she had a front tooth people could be strange, but he had never seen anything like this before. pulled and did not want anyone to see the gap. Or maybe Lydia was Big Rat wrote his observations in his little notebook. practicing for Halloween. But she was very somber. She was not behaving As he continued on his way, Big Rat noticed new signs posted everywhere at all like the usually friendly and loquacious Lydia. around the resort. Every restaurant and shop had a sign, each saying,

Big Rat saw a few other neighbors out for walks. They all walked alone Closed until further notice. and kept their distance from each other. And just as Lydia had, they avoided Big Rat. As he approached, the humans all walked to the other The beaches were closed. The pools were closed. The spa where Big side of the street, making a big arc around him. They, too, wore surgical- Rat relaxed and treated his aching muscles was closed. The golf course type masks on their faces. Some even wore latex gloves and avoided in front of his cottage was closed. The old Sugar Cane Train, which ran adjacent to the golf course and carried tourists, was nowhere to be seen.

- 4 - - 5 - Then Big Rat started noticing other new odd signs everywhere. They said,

Maintain social distancing. Stay six feet apart.

Big Rat frequently solved complex problems. He prided himself with his persistence and perseverance. He vowed he would get to the bottom of this new mystery.

Perplexed, he returned to the comfort of his cottage. It was getting dark. He ate some cheese with hot chamomile tea. Yum, yum! The tea calmed his nerves.

Every evening, Big Rat enjoyed the outside luau show near his cottage. (Luau is a Hawaiian word for a feast, often with entertainment.) Big Rat could easily hear the show through his bedroom window. He knew the routine by heart from having heard it hundreds of times. He looked forward to it every night. The music helped him peacefully fall asleep.

But tonight there was only silence. The silence was so eerie it was difficult for Big Rat to go to sleep. Now he was really worried.

Big Rat scratched his head and thought about this conundrum. He was in bed, so perhaps he was just having a bad dream. Maybe tomorrow everything would be back to normal.

- 6 - Then Big Rat started noticing other new odd signs everywhere. They But the next day everything was the same. There were still no tourists. said, The local residents Big Rat saw continued their strange behaviors of avoidance and mask-wearing. Everything remained closed. There was Maintain social distancing. nothing to do. Stay six feet apart. Day after day it was the same. And soon, week after week it was the Big Rat frequently solved complex problems. He prided himself with his same. All this was illogical to Big Rat, but it rapidly became the new norm. persistence and perseverance. He vowed he would get to the bottom of this new mystery. But every day the weather remained gorgeous. The palm trees continued to dance with the breezes, and the small yellow birds continued to sing Perplexed, he returned to the comfort of his cottage. It was getting dark. their morning praises. At least there was something for Big Rat to enjoy. He ate some cheese with hot chamomile tea. Yum, yum! The tea calmed his nerves. Big Rat reviewed the notes he had taken about these strange human behaviors. He gave his notes a title: The Great Anthropause in Hawaii, Every evening, Big Rat enjoyed the outside luau show near his cottage. March 2020. He left several empty pages to fill in for future thoughts and (Luau is a Hawaiian word for a feast, often with entertainment.) Big Rat observations about this unexpected anthropause. could easily hear the show through his bedroom window. He knew the routine by heart from having heard it hundreds of times. He looked forward to it every night. The music helped him peacefully fall asleep.

But tonight there was only silence. The silence was so eerie it was difficult for Big Rat to go to sleep. Now he was really worried.

Big Rat scratched his head and thought about this conundrum. He was in bed, so perhaps he was just having a bad dream. Maybe tomorrow everything would be back to normal.

- 6 - - 7 - Chapter 2 Big rAT MAkes ConTACT

Big Rat became very lonely without social contact. He even wondered if he had done something wrong to offend people. But Big Rat knew he was a rational rat. He convinced himself that something much bigger had caused this change in human behavior. But what?

Big Rat continued his daily search for meaningful contact. As he did every day, he went for his morning walk on the beach. There he saw what looked like a big, new black-and-brown rock on the beach. But then it moved slightly. With glee, Big Rat realized this was actually his old friend, a regal Hawaiian monk seal.

Big Rat had not seen his friend for a long time. Monk seals seldom came to the beach anymore because they were usually crowded with tourists. Now the big monk seal could sleep soundly right in the middle of the best beach. This certainly was a rarity!

- 8 - Big Rat anxiously anticipated getting the monk seal’s observations and opinions on what was happening with the humans. He rushed along the beach and greeted his friend with a cheerful, “Aloha.”

The monk seal quickly awakened from his dreams. He embraced Big Rat Chapter 2 with a big hug. It was the first hug that Big Rat had had in months, and Big rAT MAkes ConTACT he loved it. Big Rat had made contact! Big Rat quickly got to his curious question. “In your travels to other islands, have you seen any human activity?” Big Rat became very lonely without social contact. He even wondered if he had done something wrong to offend people. But Big Rat knew he The monk seal scratched his whiskers. “Not a soul! Isn’t that strange? But was a rational rat. He convinced himself that something much bigger I am not complaining because now I have the beaches all to myself. I love had caused this change in human behavior. But what? my undisturbed leisurely naps in the hot sun. It used to be that if I slept on the beach, tourists were always looking at me as if I were an oddity. Big Rat continued his daily search for meaningful contact. As he did They interrupted my sleep constantly by taking photos. every day, he went for his morning walk on the beach. There he saw what looked like a big, new black-and-brown rock on the beach. But then it “I am expecting some monk seal friends to join me soon. Would you like moved slightly. With glee, Big Rat realized this was actually his old friend, to ask them if they have seen anything?” a regal Hawaiian monk seal. “What a treat,” Big Rat said. “It is uncommon to see a group of monk Big Rat had not seen his friend for a long time. Monk seals seldom came seals together. I look forward to it.” to the beach anymore because they were usually crowded with tourists. Soon the other monk seals appeared over the small breaking waves. Now the big monk seal could sleep soundly right in the middle of the They were ready to join the big regal monk seal on the beach. best beach. This certainly was a rarity!

- 8 - - 9 - When Big Rat questioned them, none of the monk seals had seen humans in months. The monk seals felt it was now their turn to enjoy the beaches, and they settled in for a collective nap.

As they napped, Big Rat wrote in his notebook. Monk seals, he learned, prefer quiet beaches with light, gentle waves. They often sleep just at the edge of the water, with their noses pointed toward the gently lapping waves. It keeps their noses nice and cool and creates beautiful monk seal dreams. Monk seals slept and dreamed on these beaches for thousands of years before human beings ever set foot in Hawaii.

This gave Big Rat an idea. He decided to ask his other animal friends how the anthropause had affected their lives.

He decided an English-style tea party would be the ideal setting to discuss their insights. How absolutely civilized!

Big Rat put down his notebook. He turned to the big regal monk seal and asked, “How would you like to come to my cottage tomorrow afternoon at four o’clock for a proper English tea with homemade scones?”

Without hesitation, the big regal monk seal replied, “I would be delighted. I will wear my tuxedo with my black top hat. I rarely have an occasion to wear my best clothes. I look forward to it.”

- 10 - When Big Rat questioned them, none of the monk seals had seen humans With cheerful anticipation, Big Rat quickly completed his guest list for in months. The monk seals felt it was now their turn to enjoy the beaches, his first anthropause tea party. In addition to the monk seal, he would and they settled in for a collective nap. invite the mischievous mongoose, the wise green lizard, the escaped wild chicken, and the pretty-faced daft duck. All of them frequently visited As they napped, Big Rat wrote in his notebook. Monk seals, he learned, him on his lanai when he was writing. prefer quiet beaches with light, gentle waves. They often sleep just at the edge of the water, with their noses pointed toward the gently lapping waves. It keeps their noses nice and cool and creates beautiful monk seal dreams. Monk seals slept and dreamed on these beaches for thousands of years before human beings ever set foot in Hawaii.

This gave Big Rat an idea. He decided to ask his other animal friends how the anthropause had affected their lives.

He decided an English-style tea party would be the ideal setting to discuss their insights. How absolutely civilized!

Without hesitation, the big regal monk seal replied, “I would be delighted. I will wear my tuxedo with my black top hat. I rarely have an occasion to wear my best clothes. I look forward to it.”

- 10 - - 11 - Chapter 3 Big rAT’s prepArATions for english TeA

Having traditional English tea is much more than just sipping a cup of tea. Making one’s guests comfortable and having good conversations are essential. Big Rat knew the ritual well. He had studied at Oxford University many years ago and traveled to England frequently. He sometimes even gave lectures about human behaviors at his alma mater. Big Rat also knew that correctly brewed English tea is an absolute art. He would do his best to give his friends a proper English tea party to make it a memorable occasion.

The tea that Big Rat used was stored in special tin cans, like jewels. The tea came from faraway places like India and China. Big Rat had been to these places a long time ago and saw how the tea was grown. Each

- 12 - can of tea was labeled with mysterious names like Darjeeling, Earl Grey, orange pekoe, jasmine, and English breakfast.

Proper English tea is brewed only with briskly boiling water. Absolutely no tepid water is allowed. Milk, cream, or sugar can be added to any tea Chapter 3 depending on each guest’s preference. Big Rat had perfected the art of making a perfect cup of English tea. Big Rat not only liked to please his Big rAT’s prepArATions guests, he liked to exceed their expectations. for english TeA Big Rat realized that the main purpose of English tea is actually not to drink just tea. Rather, it is an excuse to indulge in savory baked desserts. The most popular treat served with tea are English scones. They are often Having traditional English tea is much more than just sipping a cup of tea. served with Devon cream and fresh strawberry jam. A classic! Making one’s guests comfortable and having good conversations are essential. Big Rat knew the ritual well. He had studied at Oxford University Scones are bite-sized delicate cakes. Surprisingly they have a relatively many years ago and traveled to England frequently. He sometimes even bland taste. Yet when eaten while still slightly warm from the oven, along gave lectures about human behaviors at his alma mater. Big Rat also with the cream and jam, they are absolutely heavenly. One bite makes knew that correctly brewed English tea is an absolute art. He would any trouble go away instantly. do his best to give his friends a proper English tea party to make it a Big Rat added a twist to the ritual. He delicately made his scones in the memorable occasion. shapes of little hearts. They were truly heartfelt scones. He would take The tea that Big Rat used was stored in special tin cans, like jewels. The them out of the oven just as they began to have a tint of brown on the tea came from faraway places like India and China. Big Rat had been top. He timed them to be done just before his guests arrived so that they to these places a long time ago and saw how the tea was grown. Each would still be slightly warm when eaten. Perfect!

- 12 - - 13 - Big Rat had been taught the proper sequence of how to eat an English scone at Oxford. First, cut the scone in half. Next, smear it with Devon cream and strawberry jam to preference. Politely nibble your creation and then wash it down with a sip of hot tea. Last and most important, pick up your napkin from your lap, gently press it to your lips, and politely say to your host, “This is really delicious! I must have your recipe for these scrumptious scones.”

Big Rat would have the tea party on his lanai, overlooking the dancing palm trees. The small yellow birds would provide their sweet melodies in the background.

On Big Rat’s lanai was a fine, round, antiqued English-style white iron patio table with matching chairs. He covered the table with a blue-and- white tablecloth with a Hawaiian motif. He perfectly folded each white linen napkin and then placed each with precision symmetrically around the table.

He set the table with his finest blue-and-white Chinese-style china with matching elegant teacups with saucers. There were small side plates for the scones. The Devon cream and strawberry jam were placed on the table within reach of anyone. Fine little silver forks, knives, and spoons were laid next to each linen napkin.

The first batch of freshly baked heart-shaped scones had just turned faint brown on top. They were ready to be removed from the oven. To

- 14 - Big Rat had been taught the proper sequence of how to eat an English maintain their warmth, Big Rat covered the scones with a large white scone at Oxford. First, cut the scone in half. Next, smear it with Devon linen napkin. cream and strawberry jam to preference. Politely nibble your creation and then wash it down with a sip of hot tea. Last and most important, Big Rat would make the tea in an elegant porcelain English teapot only pick up your napkin from your lap, gently press it to your lips, and politely after his guests arrived so that it was absolutely hot. say to your host, “This is really delicious! I must have your recipe for these Big Rat could hardly wait for his guests to arrive. As chef, he sampled scrumptious scones.” a scone along with the Devon cream and strawberry jam. It was divine. Big Rat would have the tea party on his lanai, overlooking the dancing “This is really delicious. With my secret ingredient, I certainly do know palm trees. The small yellow birds would provide their sweet melodies how to make scrumptious scones.” in the background. At that moment, his doorbell rang. All his guests arrived together, On Big Rat’s lanai was a fine, round, antiqued English-style white iron anxiously anticipating the afternoon English tea. patio table with matching chairs. He covered the table with a blue-and- white tablecloth with a Hawaiian motif. He perfectly folded each white linen napkin and then placed each with precision symmetrically around the table.

The first batch of freshly baked heart-shaped scones had just turned faint brown on top. They were ready to be removed from the oven. To

- 14 - - 15 - Chapter 4 The TeA pArTy

After brief greetings, the animals took their seats around the elegantly transformed English table. The animals unfolded their fine white linen napkins and politely put the napkins in their laps. Big Rat said a brief Hawaiian pule before eating. (Pule is a Hawaiian word that means “blessing” or “prayer.” A pule is commonly said before eating meals.)

Big Rat was very thankful for the gathering.

The magic moment had arrived. It was time to eat and enjoy each other’s friendship.

The mischievous mongoose brought baby mongoose with her. This would be baby mongoose’s first English tea and scone party. Both were very excited and licking their chops.

- 16 - The wise lizard was showing off his bright green color to match the plants in Big Rat’s garden. He had the ability to change colors to blend in with his surroundings. He wore a flashy yellow-and-black striped tie to complement his green body. He topped off his attire with a stylish black Chapter 4 French beret. He wanted to make others green with envy. The escaped wild chicken had recently escaped from an industrial farm, The TeA pArTy where she had been held prisoner in a cage. Now she roamed freely outdoors. She enjoyed living without restrictions. For the party she neatly groomed her pale white feathers. She looked fit and athletic. She After brief greetings, the animals took their seats around the elegantly had also polished her orange beak. transformed English table. The animals unfolded their fine white linen napkins and politely put the napkins in their laps. Big Rat said a brief The pretty-faced daft duck lived in the artificial pond on the golf course. Hawaiian pule before eating. (Pule is a Hawaiian word that means She had waterproof white feathers. She had just had a nice shower in “blessing” or “prayer.” A pule is commonly said before eating meals.) the fake waterfall by her pond. With a wiggle of her tail, she had quickly removed any excess water. Then she had slicked her white feathers into Big Rat was very thankful for the gathering. place. She had big orange webbed feet that were excellent for swimming. The magic moment had arrived. It was time to eat and enjoy each other’s She prized her wonderful big feet. For this special occasion she had friendship. painted the tips of her webbed feet with red toenail polish and wore a matching red bow around her head. She imagined herself as an actress. The mischievous mongoose brought baby mongoose with her. This She was really looking forward to the scones. would be baby mongoose’s first English tea and scone party. Both were very excited and licking their chops. The big regal monk seal was the last to sit down. His black tuxedo jacket with a bow tie and formal black top hat looked absolutely dapper. He looked very English, not his usual lazy beach bum self. His appetite was

- 16 - - 17 - ravenous. He immediately eyed the scones with cream and jam ready to eat on the table. He smacked his lips with anticipated satisfaction.

All the animals were very hungry. They immediately dove into the scones with tea. In fact, it took them under thirty seconds to eat everything in sight! There was momentary chaos along with lots of slurping and munching. They ate like animals. But that was okay because they were animals.

Many crumbs fell quickly to the tile floor. The crumbs were not wasted. The ever-present gigantic Hawaiian cockroaches quickly devoured every fallen crumb in seconds and became even bigger.

The anthropause tea party was already a big success, but it had only just begun. Big Rat quickly replenished the tea, scones, jam, and cream.

Everyone was ready for a second, third, or maybe even a fourth serving. With their immediate hunger satisfied, they would now eat and drink at a slower, more civilized pace. This would allow thoughtful and considerate conversation. No more chaos!

Big Rat took out his notebook to record their dialogue.

- 18 - ravenous. He immediately eyed the scones with cream and jam ready to eat on the table. He smacked his lips with anticipated satisfaction.

All the animals were very hungry. They immediately dove into the scones with tea. In fact, it took them under thirty seconds to eat everything Chapter 5 in sight! There was momentary chaos along with lots of slurping and munching. They ate like animals. But that was okay because they were animals. WhAT The AniMAls ThoughT

Many crumbs fell quickly to the tile floor. The crumbs were not wasted. ABouT The AnThropAuse The ever-present gigantic Hawaiian cockroaches quickly devoured every fallen crumb in seconds and became even bigger. After serving a second round of freshly brewed hot tea and scones, Big The anthropause tea party was already a big success, but it had only just Rat began the discussion. “What do each of you think about this sudden begun. Big Rat quickly replenished the tea, scones, jam, and cream. pause in usual human activity?”

Everyone was ready for a second, third, or maybe even a fourth serving. The mischievous mongoose replied first. “I must say I have never seen With their immediate hunger satisfied, they would now eat and drink at a anything like this before. It has now been several weeks, and I haven’t slower, more civilized pace. This would allow thoughtful and considerate seen a single tourist. I occasionally see a few humans who live here, but conversation. No more chaos! they seldom venture outside. When they do, they wear those ridiculous masks. It is hard for me to recognize them. Like you, I thought it must Big Rat took out his notebook to record their dialogue. be some kind of new game involving a disguise. Baby mongoose and I wore our masks and tried to join them, but it just was not fun.

“Some humans get very angry if someone isn’t wearing a mask. They police each other and get into big arguments and rants. It is just too

- 19 - - 18 - serious for me. We decided to stop playing their boring game. Besides, the mask hid my beautiful face. And there was no way that I could keep a mask on fidgeting baby mongoose.

“The humans do all seem to be very worried about something. They are obsessed with washing their hands. Overnight, gregarious human beings became masked hermits, washing their hands every five minutes. They do not touch anything that someone else has touched. Watching them trying to awkwardly open and close gates at the resort using only their elbows can be very funny.”

The mongoose continued. “I noticed the humans just stay home, but they do not enjoy it very much. They seem very bored. They only go outside to walk or exercise. Several try to jog after years of inactivity. They look a bit uncoordinated. The humans cannot run fast, like baby mongoose and me. The next day their muscles ache from overexertion. Soon the jogging stops. They quickly retreat to sit in front of their computers.

“Some started riding bicycles. I never saw so many bicycles on the street. Previously these same bicycles just collected dust in their garages for years. However, even with all this jogging and cycling, nobody is really going anywhere.

“Occasionally when baby mongoose and I are hiding in the bushes, we see the humans talking to each other. They stand on opposite sides of the street wearing their silly masks. They obsessively compare what they

- 20 - serious for me. We decided to stop playing their boring game. Besides, eat, talk about toilet paper, and question how long the restrictions are the mask hid my beautiful face. And there was no way that I could keep going to last. a mask on fidgeting baby mongoose. “The masks comically muffle their speech, making it hard for them to “The humans do all seem to be very worried about something. They are understand each other. Yesterday, I heard someone say, ‘Who have obsessed with washing their hands. Overnight, gregarious human beings you recently seen?’ And the other replied, ‘Yes, hopefully there will be became masked hermits, washing their hands every five minutes. They a vaccine soon!’ Their conversations are really confusing and make me do not touch anything that someone else has touched. Watching them laugh. trying to awkwardly open and close gates at the resort using only their elbows can be very funny.” “Sometimes just to break the monotony, baby mongoose and I hide in their garbage cans. We play a fun game to try to get the human beings The mongoose continued. “I noticed the humans just stay home, but they out of their bad moods. Just when they try to put something in the do not enjoy it very much. They seem very bored. They only go outside garbage, we jump out and say, ‘Surprise!’ The humans quickly jump away to walk or exercise. Several try to jog after years of inactivity. They look and are very startled. Sometimes they are so surprised their masks fall a bit uncoordinated. The humans cannot run fast, like baby mongoose off. It gives us a big laugh. But they never laugh. They just stay in their and me. The next day their muscles ache from overexertion. Soon the really bad, morose moods. Maybe they all have an epidemic of attitude jogging stops. They quickly retreat to sit in front of their computers. sickness.”

“Some started riding bicycles. I never saw so many bicycles on the street. The mongoose became more serious as she continued her observations. Previously these same bicycles just collected dust in their garages for “This situation with the humans has forced me to look at my own life. years. However, even with all this jogging and cycling, nobody is really As a mischievous mongoose, I try always to look on the bright side of going anywhere. things. I try not to worry too much and to maintain a good attitude. This is my best medicine during any crisis. I don’t want to get a sick attitude. I “Occasionally when baby mongoose and I are hiding in the bushes, we know that worrying will not add one day to my life. I try to bring humor see the humans talking to each other. They stand on opposite sides of the street wearing their silly masks. They obsessively compare what they

- 20 - - 21 - to a bad situation to make it better. That is why baby mongoose and I try to make the humans laugh. At least it is a start to a healthier attitude.”

Big Rat took a third batch of perfectly baked heart-shaped scones out of the oven. The cream and jam were again replenished for the ravenous guests. Baby mongoose was squirming and grabbing for another freshly baked scone.

As mischievous mongoose finished her scone, she picked up her napkin from her lap, gently pressed it to her lips, and politely said to her host with a cute, playful voice, “This is really delicious! I must have your recipe for these scrumptious scones.”

In between munching his own scones, Big Rat wrote all mischievous mongoose’s observations down in his notebook. He was especially interested in mischievous mongoose’s insights about attitude.

Next, the wise green lizard gave his assessment of the situation. As he courteously spoke, he sipped his second cup of tea. As he drank his tea, he held out his little finger while grasping his teacup. He took small, polite nibbles from his scone. He used his napkin with the skill of a matador. He thought of himself as a high-class lizard.

With clear enunciation, the wise green lizard began his comments. “We are all always forced to change because of things beyond our control. The choices we make determine our ability to adapt and survive. My

- 22 - to a bad situation to make it better. That is why baby mongoose and I try ancestors survived as miniature lizards because they learned how to to make the humans laugh. At least it is a start to a healthier attitude.” blend in with the background. This makes it hard for others to see us. It protects us from harm. It is pretty nifty. As little lizards we may not be Big Rat took a third batch of perfectly baked heart-shaped scones out of seen, but we see everything. the oven. The cream and jam were again replenished for the ravenous guests. Baby mongoose was squirming and grabbing for another freshly “We also learned that being considerate, courteous, and cooperative are baked scone. always important to successfully adapting.

As mischievous mongoose finished her scone, she picked up her napkin “However, my other dinosaur ancestors struggled with adaptation. from her lap, gently pressed it to her lips, and politely said to her host They spent most of their time eating. With their voracious appetites, with a cute, playful voice, “This is really delicious! I must have your recipe they often destroyed eco-habitats and each other. The dinosaurs were for these scrumptious scones.” inconsiderate, discourteous, and uncooperative. The dinosaurs thought they were kings of the animals just because they were big. They thought In between munching his own scones, Big Rat wrote all mischievous they would reign forever. They were very arrogant. They thought they mongoose’s observations down in his notebook. He was especially knew everything. interested in mischievous mongoose’s insights about attitude. “They were also self-centered and cared little for others. These are all Next, the wise green lizard gave his assessment of the situation. As he sure signs of an upcoming downfall. That is exactly what happened. They courteously spoke, he sipped his second cup of tea. As he drank his tea, became extinct, gone forever, finished, kaput!” Kaput( is a German word he held out his little finger while grasping his teacup. He took small, that means “broken” or “finished.”) The green lizard liked to use clever, polite nibbles from his scone. He used his napkin with the skill of a seldom-used, sophisticated words. He liked to impress others. matador. He thought of himself as a high-class lizard. The wise lizard continued. “I think what is currently happening to humans With clear enunciation, the wise green lizard began his comments. “We is very sinister and nefarious. Unfortunately, this is similar to what are all always forced to change because of things beyond our control. happened to dinosaurs millions of years ago. Like previous dinosaurs, The choices we make determine our ability to adapt and survive. My

- 22 - - 23 - many human beings have been acting inconsiderate, discourteous, and uncooperative for years.”

The lizard expanded his thoughts. “Human beings actually started socially isolating themselves long before this anthropause. They all got cell phones to better communicate. However, they rarely have real conversations and mostly leave messages. They look like zombies as they scan their phones. They play games, watch videos, and take frequent selfies until their brains are numb. How narcissistic or self-centered is that?

“The paradox is that with all these new computerized tools for communication, they actually have less soulful heart-to-heart communications.

“Their computers and phones have also made them more sedentary. Soon the humans will look like human sloths and become like the dinosaurs— extinct, gone forever, finished, and kaput!”

The lizard paused and then took a small sip of tea before continuing. “Yet I do not want to dwell on the negative and be so lugubrious in my perceptions of humans. They can be so intelligent, loving, and caring. Their creativity in art, music, and theater is unsurpassed. But even now, they are doing less of that.

- 24 - many human beings have been acting inconsiderate, discourteous, and “I would like to find positive ways to help them adapt better. Actually, I uncooperative for years.” quite like human beings and would like to see them around for at least a few more thousand years.” The lizard expanded his thoughts. “Human beings actually started socially isolating themselves long before this anthropause. They all The wise green lizard finished his remarks. He picked up his napkin from got cell phones to better communicate. However, they rarely have real his lap, gently pressed it to his lips, and politely said to his host with a conversations and mostly leave messages. They look like zombies as they sophisticated, professorial voice, “This is really delicious! I must have your scan their phones. They play games, watch videos, and take frequent recipe for these scrumptious scones.” selfies until their brains are numb. How narcissistic or self-centered is that? Big Rat commented, “Thank you. Your comments are very insightful. I have recorded them in my notebook.” “The paradox is that with all these new computerized tools for communication, they actually have less soulful heart-to-heart The escaped wild chicken spoke next. “As you know, I am a refugee. communications. I recently escaped from a large industrial chicken farm. Thousands of chickens were confined to very small, smelly cages. We were forced to “Their computers and phones have also made them more sedentary. Soon eat from feeding tubes in front of us. The food was terrible. It was full the humans will look like human sloths and become like the dinosaurs— of hormones to make us grow big. We had no exercise. I almost forgot extinct, gone forever, finished, and kaput!” how to walk.

The lizard paused and then took a small sip of tea before continuing. “Conversations were not allowed. We were expected to lay eggs all day “Yet I do not want to dwell on the negative and be so lugubrious in my and night. There was no time off. We lived every day in fear of our heads perceptions of humans. They can be so intelligent, loving, and caring. being cut off. It was brutal. Their creativity in art, music, and theater is unsurpassed. But even now, they are doing less of that. “Because the conditions were very crowded, we frequently got sick from being so close together in unsanitary conditions. We were injected with horrible antibiotics to reduce infections. But in spite of the antibiotics,

- 24 - - 25 - many chickens still got sick. Some even got the flu. They just could not breathe anymore. It was terrible to watch chickens close to me suffocate. Humans would just kill the infected chickens and throw them into the incinerator.

“Any infection in an animal is always dangerous. Infections can also spread to humans, but they are so arrogant. They think they are immune. They fail to see how they are connected to our misery. So long as we produced eggs or could be eaten as chicken nuggets, they really did not care. We all knew that we would never get out alive.

“One night my cage door was inadvertently left open. I knew this was my only chance to escape. I left like a bolt of lightning.”

She reflected on her present situation. “I have loved the past few weeks, even though many humans at the resort think that I don’t belong here. That does not bother me. I do not hurt anyone. I just walk around in peace. I find the little bits of food that I need among the grass. I am living more like my ancestors used to live on old-fashioned farms.

“Although I am a refugee and homeless, the world is my home. I have plenty to eat naturally. God truly does provide.”

She thoughtfully finished her remarks. “I find it curious with the anthropause that human beings are missing so much of what they took for granted in the past. Maybe this will make them wake up. We

- 26 - many chickens still got sick. Some even got the flu. They just could not need to enjoy this wonderful earth and what it has to offer instead of breathe anymore. It was terrible to watch chickens close to me suffocate. complaining about what we do not have. We also need to take better Humans would just kill the infected chickens and throw them into the care of each other. incinerator. “Earlier today, the green lizard called me an egalitarian. I learned from “Any infection in an animal is always dangerous. Infections can also him that means basically I believe that we all equal and equally share our spread to humans, but they are so arrogant. They think they are immune. resources. I guess I am an egalitarian, and I am proud of it.” They fail to see how they are connected to our misery. So long as we produced eggs or could be eaten as chicken nuggets, they really did not She took a bite of her warm scone. Just like what she had seen guests do care. We all knew that we would never get out alive. previously, she picked up her napkin from her lap, gently pressed it to her lips, and politely said to her host in an honest and sincere voice, “This is “One night my cage door was inadvertently left open. I knew this was really delicious! I must have your recipe for these scrumptious scones.” my only chance to escape. I left like a bolt of lightning.” Big Rat said, “Thank you. You are truly inspirational. I had no idea about She reflected on her present situation. “I have loved the past few weeks, the conditions on the farm. It is a real cesspool for disease. I am glad you even though many humans at the resort think that I don’t belong here. escaped. Welcome to our community.” That does not bother me. I do not hurt anyone. I just walk around in peace. I find the little bits of food that I need among the grass. I am living The pretty-faced daft duck asserted herself into the conversation. “I more like my ancestors used to live on old-fashioned farms. totally agree with my chicken cousin. Maybe we can walk and waddle together soon. I would love to get to know you better. “Although I am a refugee and homeless, the world is my home. I have plenty to eat naturally. God truly does provide.” “I have also been a prisoner, but I have had it much easier than the chicken. I was brought to the resort to be a pretty face on the golf She thoughtfully finished her remarks. “I find it curious with the course.” Batting her big beautiful eyelashes, she proudly proclaimed, “I anthropause that human beings are missing so much of what they still hope to become an actress someday.” took for granted in the past. Maybe this will make them wake up. We

- 26 - - 27 - She continued. “I live in a fake pond near the twelfth green. There is even a fake waterfall where I live. It is beautiful, but I am tired of living in a fake environment. I would rather be with my relatives in the forest.

“Although I am pretty, I also have a brain. All day long I dodge golf balls and golf carts. I often get hit in the head by wayward golf balls. It makes me a bit daft or looney. The golfers forget that I am an animal just like them. I want respect too.

“The golfers think that they are so smart. However, they rush around the course hitting and chasing stupid little white balls. I see them constantly cheat while they play. They move their balls when no one is looking, and they miscount their number of strokes. This may sound minor, but how can you trust anyone with major things if they cheat at minor things?”

She concluded, “I am so thankful for this anthropause. Without the golf balls hitting my head, I feel so much more alert every day. I may still be a bit daft, but I think this anthropause gives humans a chance to be more honest. The universe cannot be fooled. If you try to fool it, you will pay the price. So that is it in a nutshell.”

Big Rat said, “I don’t think that you are so daft. Your observations are quite astute and brainy. I have duly recorded them.”

The pretty-faced daft duck was quite pleased with her expression. She took a bite of her scone. After watching the other guests, she learned

- 28 - She continued. “I live in a fake pond near the twelfth green. There is how to pick up her napkin from her lap and gently press it to her lips. even a fake waterfall where I live. It is beautiful, but I am tired of living She politely said to her host with an affected actress voice, “This is in a fake environment. I would rather be with my relatives in the forest. really delicious! I must have your recipe for these scrumptious scones.” Everyone was astounded by her dramatic voice and wished her well with “Although I am pretty, I also have a brain. All day long I dodge golf balls her acting career. and golf carts. I often get hit in the head by wayward golf balls. It makes me a bit daft or looney. The golfers forget that I am an animal just like The big regal monk seal was the last guest to speak. He put down his them. I want respect too. cup of tea and began. “Where I live down at the beach, things have been very quiet without humans. The population of Hawaiian monk “The golfers think that they are so smart. However, they rush around the seals has markedly decreased during my lifetime. There used to be tens course hitting and chasing stupid little white balls. I see them constantly of thousands of us swimming in Hawaii. Now there are fewer than three cheat while they play. They move their balls when no one is looking, and hundred of us left. We are close to extinction, like the dinosaurs. We try they miscount their number of strokes. This may sound minor, but how to adapt, but it is difficult with all the human activity! can you trust anyone with major things if they cheat at minor things?” “We lost much of our homelands to beach hotels and development. She concluded, “I am so thankful for this anthropause. Without the golf Our waters and habitats have become toxically polluted. The ocean has balls hitting my head, I feel so much more alert every day. I may still be a been depleted of fish. The plastics that humans throw recklessly into the bit daft, but I think this anthropause gives humans a chance to be more environment end up in our stomachs. We get caught in their fishing nets. honest. The universe cannot be fooled. If you try to fool it, you will pay We get hit by their motorboats. We even catch some of their infections the price. So that is it in a nutshell.” if we get too close to them.

Big Rat said, “I don’t think that you are so daft. Your observations are “There are no peaceful places on the beaches for us to relax and nap. quite astute and brainy. I have duly recorded them.” However, all that has changed with this anthropause. I love the solitude The pretty-faced daft duck was quite pleased with her expression. She of the beach again. The ocean is becoming clear again. The fish are took a bite of her scone. After watching the other guests, she learned coming back. The is no sunscreen oil in the water. The coral reef is living

- 28 - - 29 - heathier and is colorful again in just few weeks. The plastics and garbage have diminished. But mostly, we have some quiet beaches for relaxing and getting to know other monk seals.”

Then the regal monk seal smiled and said, “I have a surprise announcement. I am proud to say that I am going to be a father soon. Yes, miracles do happen. I am doing my part to repopulate Hawaiian monk seals and having fun doing it. Can you imagine a world without us playful monk seals?”

“However, I still wonder if it is a good time to bring a baby monk seal into this world. I still do not know what these humans are up to. They are rarely consistent. I am still cautious. Human beings can appear so kind one minute and change in a second. They are unpredictable. Sometimes even I am unpredictable. Ultimately, I believe we have the same desires, vulnerabilities, and goals in life as humans do. I try to concentrate on what we have in common rather than on our differences. I always have hope for a better future. I know that I am not perfect, but I am always trying to learn to be a better monk seal.”

His speech made him hungry again. He eyed the remaining scones and tea in the center of the table. He impulsively reached across the table and grabbed the plate of scones and the proper English teapot. With one big bite and one big gulp, the entire plate of remaining scones and the tea were gone. The other guests were startled and stared at him. With

- 30 - heathier and is colorful again in just few weeks. The plastics and garbage those manners, Big Rat knew that his friend would never be invited to a have diminished. But mostly, we have some quiet beaches for relaxing tea party at Oxford. But that was okay because Big Rat knew his friend and getting to know other monk seals.” was still a real gentleman inside with a big, sincere heart.

Then the regal monk seal smiled and said, “I have a surprise announcement. The monk seal quickly realized that he had made a mistake in etiquette. I am proud to say that I am going to be a father soon. Yes, miracles do He wanted to become regal again. Just in time, he remembered the happen. I am doing my part to repopulate Hawaiian monk seals and proper ending for eating scones. On cue he picked up his napkin from his having fun doing it. Can you imagine a world without us playful monk lap, gently pressed it to his lips, and politely said to his host in a strong seals?” British accent, “This is really delicious! I must have your recipe for these scrumptious scones.” “However, I still wonder if it is a good time to bring a baby monk seal into this world. I still do not know what these humans are up to. They are This made Big Rat very happy. Everyone has the capacity to learn. He rarely consistent. I am still cautious. Human beings can appear so kind winked at his friend to let him know everything was okay. one minute and change in a second. They are unpredictable. Sometimes even I am unpredictable. Ultimately, I believe we have the same desires, vulnerabilities, and goals in life as humans do. I try to concentrate on what we have in common rather than on our differences. I always have hope for a better future. I know that I am not perfect, but I am always trying to learn to be a better monk seal.”

- 30 - - 31 - Chapter 6 Big rAT explAins “AlohA”

After the big regal monk seal finished the scones, he said to Big Rat, “You have been an anthropologist for many years. What do you think about this anthropause?”

Big Rat had taken careful notes. But he set them aside and spoke from his heart.

“This anthropause is certainly perplexing. Your discussions have provided me many helpful pieces to this puzzle. Here are my thoughts.

“When a child misbehaves a parent wisely forces the child to have a time- out. Hopefully with time-out the child will think about his or her actions and correct them. This anthropause may be similar.

“But what have humans done wrong, and what actions do they need to correct? I have lived with humans for more than seventy years. I find

- 32 - them to be mostly very kind, caring, smart, generous, hardworking, and creative. But unfortunately, as you have all noticed, they can also be very selfish and uncaring.”

Big Rat further explained, “We all know that God made this wonderful Chapter 6 creation we call the earth. First, God created the air we breathe. Next, God created the water and the land that nourishes plants. Then, God Big rAT explAins “AlohA” made the mountains, valleys, and plains to inspire and awe us.

“When nature was thriving, God created all creatures great and small to After the big regal monk seal finished the scones, he said to Big Rat, “You live on this fabulous earth. That’s us, the wonderful animals! But God still have been an anthropologist for many years. What do you think about thought something was missing. That is when God created man. this anthropause?” “God decided to create man in his image. How special is that? It is a Big Rat had taken careful notes. But he set them aside and spoke from real honor. Although I think I am pretty special as a rat, no one has ever his heart. described a rat as being created in God’s image!

“This anthropause is certainly perplexing. Your discussions have provided “In exchange for this special honor God made a deal with man. The me many helpful pieces to this puzzle. Here are my thoughts. deal was that humankind would take care of this marvelous world. That includes not only all air, water, and land but also all plants and animals. “When a child misbehaves a parent wisely forces the child to have a time- That was the deal. It was pretty simple to understand. out. Hopefully with time-out the child will think about his or her actions and correct them. This anthropause may be similar. “Ask yourself, compared to the past, are humans taking good care of the world? Is our soil naturally rich for growing crops, or is it contaminated with “But what have humans done wrong, and what actions do they need harmful chemicals? Are our oceans clean and thriving or polluted, dying, to correct? I have lived with humans for more than seventy years. I find

- 32 - - 33 - and overfished? Are our forests healthy, abundant, and fertile or dwindling, and withering? Is the air we breathe still pure, or has it become sickly?

“Healthy air is so critical for life. The real magic of life began when God breathed air into man and gave him life.”

Big Rat was now getting to the most important part of his speech. He spoke passionately. “The ancient Hawaiians have a word that well describes this ongoing interaction between man’s first breath and how we all should live each day. It is called aloha. Aloha is casually used to say hello and goodbye. It is also used to express love. That is good and fine. However, aloha has a much deeper meaning in the old Hawaiian language.

“In the Hawaiian language aloha actually comes from two words alo and ha. Alo means to share, and ha means the breath of God. Therefore, the deeper meaning of aloha is to share the breath of God.

“This is a real interesting concept. The ancient Hawaiians learned the value of practicing aloha in their daily struggles for existence. Basically, they recognized that everything good they did and every success they had were the result of sharing God’s breath. This is why they created the word aloha and rituals to use in their daily lives to remember this every day.”

Big Rat explained how to practice aloha. “Aloha became the Hawaiians’ guiding compass to safely cross the vast, turbulent Pacific Ocean

- 34 - and overfished? Are our forests healthy, abundant, and fertile or dwindling, without a map in small canoes and to discover new lands. To practice and withering? Is the air we breathe still pure, or has it become sickly? aloha one must be in unison with what God wants instead of what one immediately desires. “Healthy air is so critical for life. The real magic of life began when God breathed air into man and gave him life.” “When lost or in doubt, the Hawaiians always asked God for direction. They were humble. That is how they crossed the oceans with faith. Big Rat was now getting to the most important part of his speech. Practicing aloha every day is the pathway to becoming a better caretaker He spoke passionately. “The ancient Hawaiians have a word that well of God’s creation. With this spirit of aloha in their hearts, the Hawaiians describes this ongoing interaction between man’s first breath and how crossed the Pacific Ocean to thrive in their newly discovered lands.” Big aloha Aloha we all should live each day. It is called . is casually used to Rat paused. A tear came to his eyes because he loved Hawaii. say hello and goodbye. It is also used to express love. That is good and fine. However, aloha has a much deeper meaning in the old Hawaiian After a few seconds, Big Rat continued. “Each breath we take is really a language. miracle. It is also a remembrance of that very first breath we all received from God. Yet even as animals, we need to appreciate each breath every day and aloha alo “In the Hawaiian language actually comes from two words and make the most of it. This is what having awareness of aloha does to one’s life.” ha. Alo means to share, and ha means the breath of God. Therefore, the deeper meaning of aloha is to share the breath of God. Big Rat finished his comments. “I know that there are physical things that always make air unpure, like smoke, odors, or even invisible infections. “This is a real interesting concept. The ancient Hawaiians learned the value Some are human-made, and some are beyond human control. But I of practicing aloha in their daily struggles for existence. Basically, they know trusting in God’s direction is the critical first step to finding a recognized that everything good they did and every success they had solution to maintaining good, healthy air. were the result of sharing God’s breath. This is why they created the word aloha and rituals to use in their daily lives to remember this every day.” “I am intrigued particularly by the escaped wild chicken’s experiences within those horrible cages. It is so obvious crowded, unsanitary, unnatural Big Rat explained how to practice aloha. “Aloha became the Hawaiians’ conditions are breeding grounds for infections. What humankind seems to guiding compass to safely cross the vast, turbulent Pacific Ocean

- 34 - - 35 - have forgotten is that all life is interconnected. Life is not only fragile for the individual but for all life. Life on earth is only as strong as its weakest link.

“Life is very special. When I look at the millions of stars at night, I am awed. I am so thankful to be part of this miracle on earth.

“Who knows? This may be the only tiny speck in the vast universe where God created life. This is why having good caretakers of this earth is so important.

“Fortunately, God always gives second chances, so there is still hope for human beings. Perhaps God is giving humans a time-out in order to think about what they have done to the earth and how to improve it.

“Taking care of God’s creation is a big job. It is a big responsibility. No big problems are ever solved in a day. As a rational rat I know it takes persistence and perseverance. I try to accomplish little things each day in order to solve bigger problems that at first seem unachievable.

“I know that there are pockets of hope within the human population that are receptive to positive change. We as animals need to motivate these humans to build upon this hope. However, the best way to influence people is by being a good example. In conclusion, let us as animals simply do what we can to be good examples for humans during this anthropause.

“I apologize if I sound too preachy. It is not my usual style or intention. As an amateur anthropologist, I can get too wordy and carried away.

- 36 - have forgotten is that all life is interconnected. Life is not only fragile for the I certainly do not have all the answers and appreciate your comments individual but for all life. Life on earth is only as strong as its weakest link. today. I have recorded them and will pass them along to the humans. Mahalo for your patience.” (Mahalo is a special Hawaiian word that “Life is very special. When I look at the millions of stars at night, I am means “thank you.”) awed. I am so thankful to be part of this miracle on earth. Big Rat eyed the empty plates of scones. He was pleased that his guests “Who knows? This may be the only tiny speck in the vast universe where God had enjoyed the tea party. Then he picked up his napkin from his lap, created life. This is why having good caretakers of this earth is so important. gently pressed it to his lips, and joyfully said to his guests, “This was truly “Fortunately, God always gives second chances, so there is still hope for delicious. Now you know my secret ingredient in the scones was aloha, human beings. Perhaps God is giving humans a time-out in order to and I used plenty of it.” think about what they have done to the earth and how to improve it. With those closing remarks, the mischievous mongoose and her baby, “Taking care of God’s creation is a big job. It is a big responsibility. No the wise green lizard, the escaped wild chicken, the pretty-faced daft big problems are ever solved in a day. As a rational rat I know it takes duck, and the big regal monk seal stood and applauded Big Rat. persistence and perseverance. I try to accomplish little things each day The palm trees still danced to the breezes in the background. The small in order to solve bigger problems that at first seem unachievable. yellow birds still sang their songs of praise. Big Rat and his friends happily “I know that there are pockets of hope within the human population that went with aloha to the beach to enjoy God’s creation. They looked are receptive to positive change. We as animals need to motivate these forward to humans joining them in the near future. humans to build upon this hope. However, the best way to influence All pau. (Pau is a Hawaiian word that means “finished”). people is by being a good example. In conclusion, let us as animals simply do what we can to be good examples for humans during this anthropause.

“I apologize if I sound too preachy. It is not my usual style or intention. As an amateur anthropologist, I can get too wordy and carried away.

- 36 - - 37 - Hawaiian monk seals enjoying one of Hawaii’s most popular beaches without tourists during Coronavirus Pandemic April 2020. Mischievous Mongoose with Baby Mongoose

Hawaiian monk seals enjoying one of Hawaii’s most popular beaches without tourists during Coronavirus Pandemic April 2020. The Wise Green Lizard The Wise Green Lizard The Escaped Wild Chicken The Pretty Faced Daft Duck The Pretty Faced Daft Duck The big regal Hawaiian monk seal sleeping on the beach. The AnThropAuse The Anthropause Tea Party TeA pArTy

Roger L. White, M.D.

Roger L. White, M.D. The AnThropAuse The Anthropause Tea Party TeA pArTy

Roger L. White, M.D.

Air, Water and Mountains - All God’s Creations Roger L. White, M.D. Earth is a very special place in this vast universe. It needs good caretakers. Earth is a very special place in this vast universe. It needs good caretakers.

To thrive, we must share the breath of God every day with aloha. ABouT The AuThor

Roger White, MD, is a retired clinical cardiologist. He has been involved with emergency care, heart surgery, cardiac imaging, research, and teaching. He trained at the University of Chicago and has been on the medical staffs of Northwestern University Medical School and the University of Hawaii. He has published numerous scientific articles. He is a founding editor of the Asian Annals of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery and The Journal of Preventive Cardiology.

He had been a frequent lecturer in America, Asia, and Europe. He currently resides in Honolulu, Hawaii. ABouT The AuThor

Additional books by Dr. White available through AuthorHouse and Amazon.com includes:

SOAR: Achieving Your Best Possible Health through Awareness, Author House, 2010.

SOAR: The Workbook, Author House, 2010.

Slimming with Daniel, More than a Diet, Author House, 2014.

Roger White, MD, is a retired clinical cardiologist. He has been involved Breathe: First Breath to Last Breath, Make Each Breath Count, Author with emergency care, heart surgery, cardiac imaging, research, and House, 2016. teaching. He trained at the University of Chicago and has been on the medical staffs of Northwestern University Medical School and the The Food Paradox: What Is the Missing Ingredient?, Author House, 2019. University of Hawaii. He has published numerous scientific articles. He is a founding editor of the Asian Annals of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery and The Journal of Preventive Cardiology.

He had been a frequent lecturer in America, Asia, and Europe. He currently resides in Honolulu, Hawaii.