“Whatever you want to do in this world, it is achievable.  The most important thing that I’ve found, that perhaps you could use, is be passionate and enthusiastic in the direction that you choose in life, and you’ll be a winner.” ~ Steve Irwin

(More photos of our trip to Australia Zoo and video clips of ‘The Crocodile Hunter’ are found below.)

November 15 is Steve Irwin Day.  I want to take a moment and share with you how this amazing man changed my life.

I started watching the Crocodile Hunter when it first started airing.  I was just a teenager at the time and I believe Steve’s documentaries shaped my purpose in life.

Every week I’d sit down with my dad, who was also enthralled by Steve, and we’d watch as Steve swam near crocodiles, handled venomous snakes, and screamed “Crikey, she’s gorgeous” in his thick Aussie accent.

For starters, I have some wonderful memories with my dad, who has now passed, that I owe to Steve and his show.

But after watching every Crocodile Hunter episode I learned how just one person can truly make an enormous difference.

I have never seen anyone as passionate about anything as Steve was for conservation.  His passion for saving wildlife was absolutely infectious.  Steve turned that passion into action and thanks to him, millions of people have experienced the true beauty of nature and why it needs to be protected.

Steve taught me how important every single animal is and how every animal deserves its place in the world - whether fuzzy and cute or scaly and scary.

Steve also taught me how precious life is and that you should never waste a second of it.  Steve dedicated his life to protecting all life on earth and his legacy will live on forever.

Several years ago I had the honor and privilege of visiting Australia Zoo.  It was a life-long dream of mine to visit the place that encompassed everything that I had learned from Steve.

I’ll never forget the beauty and care that went into every exhibit.  As I walked through every enclosure I could easily sense that every animal was loved just like family.

I’ve included some pictures from my trip below, as well as some video clips of my favorite Crocodile Hunter shows.

So how do I remember Steve Irwin?

He helped shape my passion for wildlife conservation and in turn, I’ve dedicated my life to help save our planet and all the creatures who inhabit it.

Steve knew that when one person stands up for what they believe in, others follow.

Thank you Steve Iwin, your legacy inspires me everyday.

How you can help:

Learn more about Steve Irwin Day

Learn more about Australia Zoo

Donate to Wildlife Warriors

How do you remember Steve?

Please feel free to share your stories in the comment section below.

Photos from our trip to Australia Zoo:

[Getting greeted by an Asian Elephant as you walk in to Australia Zoo]

[Just a few of the Koalas at Australia Zoo]

[The Tiger Show at Australia Zoo]

[One of the many crocodiles at Australia Zoo]

[The Croc Show at Australia Zoo]

[My fiance Jason petting a kangaroo at Australia Zoo. Yes, you are actually encouraged to pet the kangaroos!]

Video clips from some of my favorite Crocodile Hunter episodes: