greenlight - Citizen Journalism onEarth

Editor's Picks |  Read All Community Posts

Love and Responsibility

When I realized that global warming posed a threat to my two young children's health and well being-- not just in the future, but now-I became what I call an "unlikely environmentalist." I became a recycling fanatic and I started unplugging. I began to apply my professional expertise as a psychologist to the problem of how to enlist the unenlisted. But love for my children also propelled me to become an engaged voter for the first time in my life.

I realized that lifestyle change is necessary but not sufficient. I learned that unless we change the policies that promote climate change, our efforts to change our lifestyles and business practices will be for naught.

I don't feel guilty about actions I didn't take when I didn't know better. But now I feel responsible for whether my children will live in a world in which they suffer or thrive.

You probably feed your children healthy feed and give them the best possible education.

Well, calling your Senator is an act of parental responsibility as the Senate prepares to debate the all-important climate bill, aka Kerry-Boxer bill. If your Senators are onboard, let them know you support them. If they're not onboard, hold them to account.

The moment is now. We don't get a second chance on this. So use your most important sphere of influence on behalf of your children-- your voice!

Using your voice is an act of love. Your children will thank you.

So, contact your Senator here.

Calling is better than writing-way better. One phone call equals 1000 emails. Don't have time?- As a single, self-employed mother I know! I don't either. But aren't our kids worth it?

And we have exactly enough time-starting now.

Comments

No comments yet

Comment on this post
OnEarth is a quarterly magazine of thought and opinion on the environment. OnEarth and the Greenlight blog are open to diverse points of view; the opinions expressed by contributors, online commenters, and the editors are their own and not necessarily those of NRDC.


Subscribe to Magazine | Site Map | About OnEarth | All Authors | Privacy Policy | Terms of Use | Media Kit | Contact the Editors | NRDC Home

NRDC