The 22nd of April was “Earth Day”. Things are not going well on our beautiful planet right now. Without sounding alarming, we know there is work to be done and changes to be made. Education is the key to understanding that we must take responsibility for our actions if we are to reverse the damage done to this awesome planet earth. Let’s get out of a sense of inadequacy and fear, let’s not wait for other people to take on the role of educating the masses. We suggest that as individuals you start teaching your children, your neighbours, your elderly that it is our responsibility to care for mother earth.

Even if Earth Day has passes, it is an opportunity to start a new way of living. There is great power in realising that each and every one of us has a role to play in our lifetime. Contrary to common belief, it does not mean doing something ‘extraordinary’. It simply means doing small acts of kindness to enhance the good of all. It also means that it is time to be part of the solution. It’s called authentic power.

Why not rally together in a common goal as one nation and be an example? Together we can do great things, we can influence the masses. Don’t say that you don’t know what difference you can make. That is a cop out. Because you can!

Here are some suggestions that can go beyond Earth Day:

Watch your consumption of water. Make sure all taps are closed properly and don’t waste. Only use what you need. Don’t use any plastic. Take your own shopping bag and refuse plastic ones.Walk and leave the car at home whenever possible. If not, share the car with others or ride a bike.

Pledge your family to do something for the environment. Get the whole family involved and have fun. Plant a tree. Go for a walk in nature. Don’t burn rubbish. Pick up all rubbish around our beaches, rivers or parks. Do not use any pesticide or chemical cleaning products.

Take a few moments to be grateful for this wonderful world. Be thankful to mother nature for nurturing us and our planet. Make time to talk about Earth Day to children, who are our best ambassadors.

The choice is yours. You can read this article and decide to do nothing hoping that someone else can take action or you can decide that enough is enough and start making some changes and play your part in healing our planet. Who knows what difference our action can make? One thing is sure: in raising our consciousness regarding our responsibility to our environment, we will feel empowered.

<B>Hugh & Sylvie Stanley

<B<I>Hugh and Sylvie Stanley run Quantum Vision Ltd, a training company specialised in stress management, change management, personal development and visionary leadership. They can be contacted on 759 5705 or email: [email protected]</B></I>