The Key Question
When it comes to environmentalism and how we treat the planet, I think that there is one ultimate, all-encompassing question that we need to ask ourselves.
Just because I can, does that mean I have the right?
Truly, an interesting query. It can apply to just about anything, but I think it especially applies to how we use resources. Just because you can afford a sleek sports car that gets 2 miles to the gallon (and afford all that gas), does that mean you have a right to it? Do you have a right to anything you can get, even if it denies someone else their share?
Well, if you know me, you'll know that my answer is a resounding "NO".
Whether it's water, gas, food, land, or anything else, we have to strike a balance between need and want. I'll admit that this can be a pretty tricky question sometimes. Need seems like a simple concept, but it is a slippery slope.
A college student needs a lot of things. Books, school supplies, a place to study, computer access, and the money to have time to study, rather than work.
Let's face it...those things are not common in this world. There are people who cannot afford the time away from whatever job they do. There are people who cannot read, let alone have access to books and computers. But this is where a balance has to come in, as well as giving back.
The student who has more in one way, should give back or reduce his or her consumption in another. Even little steps each day can add up. Go back for seconds if you're still hungry, but don't take a pile of food and only eat half. Do you really need to print that document? Turn off those lights. Donate a weekend to help plant trees.
Those who have a lot are also in a good position to give a lot and not always in the ways you think.
It's a very personal thing to decide what you need. It can be hard to look at your life and decide that you are being irresponsible. It takes a strong person to look at the bigger picture and change themselves accordingly.
I dare you to try. You might surprise yourself.
Just because I can, does that mean I have the right?
Truly, an interesting query. It can apply to just about anything, but I think it especially applies to how we use resources. Just because you can afford a sleek sports car that gets 2 miles to the gallon (and afford all that gas), does that mean you have a right to it? Do you have a right to anything you can get, even if it denies someone else their share?
Well, if you know me, you'll know that my answer is a resounding "NO".
Whether it's water, gas, food, land, or anything else, we have to strike a balance between need and want. I'll admit that this can be a pretty tricky question sometimes. Need seems like a simple concept, but it is a slippery slope.
A college student needs a lot of things. Books, school supplies, a place to study, computer access, and the money to have time to study, rather than work.
Let's face it...those things are not common in this world. There are people who cannot afford the time away from whatever job they do. There are people who cannot read, let alone have access to books and computers. But this is where a balance has to come in, as well as giving back.
The student who has more in one way, should give back or reduce his or her consumption in another. Even little steps each day can add up. Go back for seconds if you're still hungry, but don't take a pile of food and only eat half. Do you really need to print that document? Turn off those lights. Donate a weekend to help plant trees.
Those who have a lot are also in a good position to give a lot and not always in the ways you think.
It's a very personal thing to decide what you need. It can be hard to look at your life and decide that you are being irresponsible. It takes a strong person to look at the bigger picture and change themselves accordingly.
I dare you to try. You might surprise yourself.