To the editor:
I'd like to comment about what someone said at the city's official plan open house on Tuesday evening.
He basically expressed his fear of interest groups such as EarthWise, and refered to people who care or advocate for the environment as trees huggers.
I don't feel offended by the label as trees are indeed some of my best friends, but on the contrary would like to commend this man for expressing out loud what many people do feel. I would also like to offer this tree hugger's perspective: I personally care and advocate for the environment because I feel we are part of and we depend on it for not only survival, but also for health and quality of life. Thirdly, I feel a deep love and respect for all forms of life.
However, I wonder why some people feel afraid of such advocacy.
There is the obvious perceived threat to profit of course. So I ask: what about our health? Can we enjoy our wealth, and even happiness, if we're not healthy?
Stop for a minute to think about that. Are you the type of person who finds it normal to pollute his or her body with tobacco, alcohol, drugs, greasy foods?
If that's the case, I understand that you may not see the paramount importance of a cleaner world.
The tree huggers I know are indeed people who believe in creating health, for themselves and for the world around them.
I suggest you not be afraid of us any longer, but try to understand where we come from. I personally believe that we can live in a healthy world. It will take much work, patience, thinking, praying, listening to one another, communicating and collaborating, but it is possible. We must also set our priorities strait. What comes first for you? When you raise your glass to toast, when you send New Year's wishes, what do you wish for yourself, your friends and family?
Catherine Sajna,
Thunder Bay
