Thoughts from Reading

When reading today, I think about the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, and how far removed many Americans are from the global disaster that is continuing there. Not only is it a sinful thing that humans are taking advantage of the resources and the life that the earth has, and think nothing of the consequences for the earth, it's life and ecosystems.



After reading Richard Louv's Last child in the Woods and some of the other readings that are on the reading list for the class, I am reminded of how important the work that educator do for kids, and hoe much they can help families to connect with nature and influence their thoughts, behaviors and their connectiveness with the natural world. Meaning that the information, skills, and example that the adult/instructor sets in terms of the earth and the natural world is contagious, and that young people are like sponges, and will be more likely to be a good steward and a fighter for the cause of the earth.

Getting back to the oil spill, that there needs to be a fundamental change and mobilization of the United States' people in terms of the cleaning and changing of the habits and usage of natural resources and the reliance on petroleum products. It will be the actions of people that love the natural world that will facilitate change. While the economy is going to be effected, the people that have the fundamental understanding of the earth, and truly care about the things that people do to the earth.

I truly believe that people need to take time away from technology, their cars, cell phones and the media and spend time at the local park, their back yard, or even walk in the forest. Look, listen, smell and feel the nature, free of the artificial and human technological influence around them. Make it a habit, know what nature really is, and then watch the news and try not to be connected to the ecosystem that is being destroyed in the Gulf of Mexico.

I may be on a rant, but the connections are apparent. Nature is not something that is in a park, in the mountains or in a book. It is all around us, and it is the responsibility of humans to become educated and proactive in keeping the earth safe.