Our only home
NASA photo

SACRIFICE

When I ask myself what am I willing to sacrifice to help save the Earth, the list of possibilities is long. This is because as an average American I consume up to sixteen times more energy and resources than most third world people. In considering my list I can understand the logic of denying that there is even a problem to begin with, or denying that there is anything meaningful an individual can do to make a difference. Why bother? Thinking about it will just give you a headache. So forget it! I think not.

I don’t know exactly what makes me care so much, except that when Ilook into my granddaughters’ eyes I know I have to do something to help clean up the Earth that my generation neglected and abused in so many ways. When I am in the company of people who act in behalf of the Earth my heart opens. Because of them I am given confidence and feel optimistic that humanity will see to the healing of the Earth.

Why do I bother to tell you this, you who are already occupied with your own truths and causes? It’s not that I necessarily want you tobecome an environmental activist like me, although that would bewonderful. It’s because like the rising temperatures and rising sealevels and rising frequencies of terrible storms and fires, I too have to rise up and call out. The Earth is our Mother and we cannot rob her of her resources and life without robbing ourselves as well.

Bill Kucha, Depoe Bay