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The Catholic Bird Lover

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Recreation, Outdoors and Religion

About Mariel Ortega

As an ecologist, writer, artist, and educator I wear many hats, but the one identity that permeates them all is my Catholic identity. I graduated from Texas A&M University with a double degree in English and Wildlife Ecology. My career as an ecologist has taken me across the globe, from Australia and Alaska to California and Minnesota. Long field days with no cell reception becomes its own unique form of worship, a deep connection with God's Creation. As a writer, I find beauty in the human heart. Writers can't help but leave a footprint of their souls in their work. I hope you'll be able to feel mine through my reflections in this column and one day through my novel that is taking years to write.

All Posts by Mariel

3 Very Catholic Truths Mexican Culture Teaches About...

The constant hum of the fan weaves with the dramatic gongs of... read more

Is my dream a message from God?

There are some days when God whispers in a still small voice…And... read more

Wishes Make us Human, but What Happens When...

Wishes, our deepest desires, our longing for more... This is what makes us... read more

God's Presence in non-Church Things: Capoeira Martial Arts

I love the universality of Catholicism. On my trip to Korea, I... read more

Confession in Korea: The Universality of the Church

"Misa...misa...misa..." I muttered to myself under my breath as I scrolled through... read more

Pious Daydream: Is it actually pious?

This past Sunday, I was sitting in Mass, daydreaming. The calming music,... read more

5 Ways to Respond When God Asks us...

Recently, I wrote a post on why God might ask us to... read more

3 Everyday Ways to Witness Your Faith Without...

Recently, I was at a pool party with several non-Catholic friends. I... read more

Top 3 Tips on Maintaining Innocence in a...

The most innocent soul I have ever met. This is what one... read more

3 Truths the Little Mermaid Teaches About Desires

The new live-action Little Mermaid is amazing. I've slipped back in time... read more

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