Making a Memory

This week, Chappell reflects on Spring Street's committment to animal welfare, and our positive attitude heading into the Spring Season.

When Cynthia comes into the store, we all notice it. Not because she’s the founder and  creator of Spring Street (she is) but because she has a way of breezing in on a wave of pastel  scarves and trendy sneakers and saying “hey, darlin!” in a way that would make any southern  girl proud (Cynthia is from New York). She’s everyone’s mother, aunt, and friend. And her  generosity of spirit doesn’t end at Spring Street.  

In fact, I think that’s where it just begins. 

On Wednesday Cynthia came breezing into the store as usual, blonde hair pulled back in  a youthful ponytail, buzzing with energy.  

“I’m so happy! We just adopted three more baby elephants!” she exclaimed while  simultaneously assessing the store, another baby of hers.  

Wait. Three more? 

“Three more elephants?” I asked. How did one even go about sponsoring an elephant? “Yes! Three! They are so cute. We were going to sponsor one or two more but then I  saw that these were a group of three friends and I couldn’t leave one of them out. So we sponsored all three. And can you believe that Quanza is now nine years old?” “Quanza?” 

“Yes! Spring Street began sponsoring Quanza years ago. Here! I’ll show you!” I followed her back to her office, a beehive of eclectic artwork, plaques, mugs, boxes,  and animals. I was intrigued. She excitedly produced her ipad from beneath a stack of papers, a  mother proudly showing off pictures of her children. And there they were: three adorable baby  elephants, orphaned by human-wildlife conflict. And nine year old Quanza, happily taking a  mud bath. 

“Kindani, Kinei, and Bondeni are taking a walk together. See? Aren’t they amazing  creatures? I just had to do something to help them.” 

A fellow animal lover myself, I could easily see why. Elephants are highly intelligent creatures, living well into their 70’s, with complex emotional bonds and strong family ties.  Poachers, illegal hunters, and the ivory trade separate and destroy these families, making  orphans of the very young, many who see their mothers slaughtered and grieve for the loss of  their families.  

“How does Spring Street sponsor an elephant?” 

“We donate to the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust. Donations support the elephants’ care. It’s  so important,” she declared passionately.  

I smiled. Cynthia has a heart the size of Texas. And not unlike these beautiful creatures,  whose herds are led by a single strong, wise female, Cynthia is Spring Streets’ Matriarch,  supporting us in our lives, our goals, and our families. Like elephants, we are a band of women woven together by respect, kindness, and family. I don’t think I’ve met a more unique woman, full of good, hope, and childlike awe. In that moment, I am truly inspired. 

It’s no wonder Cynthia feels such a connection and responsibility towards these  orphans. They are an extension of her human family. Cynthia’s goodwill will outlast her,  creating a better life for these creatures, a future, something irreplaceable. Unforgettable.  

I find it no small wonder that a herd of elephants is called a memory.

If you would like to sponsor an elephant or donate to the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, you can learn more at www.sheldrickwildlifetrust.org/orphans