We all know the Earth is suffering. We see it around us everyday. Pollution of air, water, and  land, overpopulation, species dying out, technology running rampant, warfare scarring the terrain, and landfills brimming over with the excesses of a materially-focused, excessively consumptive society.

Do we want this to continue? Do we want to leave our children an Earth so poorly cared for, leave them a tragic legacy? Do we want to surround ourselves in such an environment?  Most people would say, “No”. And, so there, at the point of decision we must take action. It begins with each one of us making that decision consciously and with full commitment to do our part, no matter how small.

As we continue with this commitment we find that we set an example for those around us. And, with hope, those others will also make their commitment. And so it spreads to a global  effort of saving something very precious — our Home.

“Almost anything you do will seem insignificant, but it is very important that you do it.” ~~ Ghandi

• Recycle/re-use as much as you can.
• Neuter/spay your pets.
• Before you buy something ask yourself: “Do I REALLY need this?”
• Join a local action group such as the Sierra Club.
• Start a neighborhood clean-up group — and do a bi-weekly or monthly cleaning.
• Turn off the lights.
• Plant something green.
• Don’t throw trash out your car window (yes, I still see people doing this!).
• Carpool.
• Slow down when you drive — it saves on gas.
• Turn off the TV and read a book or take a walk.
• Use products that haven’t been tested on animals.
• Write to your political leaders and support conservation legislation.
• Teach your children how to care for the Earth.
• Mulch your grass clippings and leaves instead of bagging them and taking them to a landfill.
• Use chemicals sparingly.
• Turn off the air conditioner and open the windows.
• Support conservation organizations.
• Be a peaceful force of change.
• Be thankful and appreciate the beautiful planet we live with.

Visit the Heartwood for more on conservation and ecology!

Daphne Cochran-Shapiro is an Author & Poet, Designer & Crafter, and Entrepreneur who specializes in working with folks needing design assistance. My goal is to empower you to be the best you can be in ALL your endeavors. I invite you to browse my sites and share your comments on my works!