April 22 is Earth Day, a day which we show support for protecting the environment in which we live.
I was one of the silent majority who sat on the sidelines and struggled with how to show that support. Recycling didn’t seem enough, but saving the whales or the polar bears was beyond the scope which I could help.
After hearing the phrase “think globally, act locally” for at least as long as the first Earth Day in 1970, I finally clicked that I am like most people and can take action on local issues. My journey led me to the local Sierra Club chapter and working on plastic pollution issues. But my path is not yours.
Acting locally comes from having a passion for an issue.
If you don’t have an issue (or are afraid to take the first step) friends always have their causes. Their passion can be contagious.
With our 2nd virtual Earth Day, it is time to set a goal to get outside. If you can, join an organized spring cleanup event through the end of the month. If you’re not a gardener, consider adding some pollinator flowers and tomato plants to your backyard. And take a hike! We all need to appreciate the beauty that springtime brings to our region.
John S. Szalasny
Sierra Club Niagara Group
Executive Committee
