NASCAR driver and winner of the Daytona 500, Ward Burton is also the founder of The Ward Burton Wildlife Foundation whose mission is to conserve America’s land and wildlife. (Photo Courtesy of Ward Burton)

We spent time during the summer and winter, fall and spring outdoors on the land at the Cove. We explored new trails, saw the changes in the life of animals and insects up close, and learned from the water, the sky, and the stars. He answered this boy's questions. He spent his time with me, and I knew I was loved. He led me through the mazes of the forest and through life. He was both friend and brother to me, but he was my father—and he gave my life the richness I wish for all children.

Memories imprinted on my heart have given me rewards greater than trophies or praise or my name in print. The greatest gift he gave me was my passion and love for life and this country. He was brave, not just physically brave, but a man of moral courage. He taught me to be strong through experiences in the outdoors and through so many more I have gone through in life. I still miss him every day.

When I was a young boy, I was lucky to have him to spend time with me outdoors -- hunting, fishing, hiking, and camping. I learned not to leave a campfire burning untended or throw trash in a stream or ever kill any creature for "fun." I knew I had a responsibility for taking care of nature. As I grew older, I felt the independence that comes from knowing I was an important part of nature and knew how to protect it.

Today my rich childhood experiences have made me an advocate for conservation. Now I spend time outdoors with my children to teach them the lessons I learned, and I try to listen to them and understand them. Sadly, though, too few children have adults who can teach them like this through nature.

As Americans, we have an obligation to support programs like 4-H, scouting, Big Brothers and Big Sisters and others which give children outdoor activities that can connect them to the world through nature--instead of television or the streets. Many are becoming sedentary and disconnected from nature and wildlife. They need to reconnect with our planet through outdoor adventures, or we will lose the fight to preserve the land that supports us. Children need mentors, and they need people who will listen to their thoughts and feelings. They need to understand that they, too, can carry the torch to connect to the next generation of conservationists before we lose our natural world.

My hope for our planet is that more adults will spend time with children to teach them to respect and learn from nature These experiences can shape children’s lives in countless positive ways and can imprint their souls with lasting memories. Children need strong, caring, role models that share in their world, no matter how small or insignificant that time may seem. This is my wish for this Earth Day.