Be Positive

 

In this class, we've heard a lot of authors and activists who spoke out against the trajectory society is going as it pertains to both the treatment and enjoyment of nature. Thoreau and Abbey, despite their differences, can both agree that humans are interacting with nature in the wrong way. 

It's easy to make a case that our relationship with nature is wrong, whether by domesticating it or hiding from it or destroying it.

I think these points can be important to listen to and learn from. I've enjoyed the thought-provoking and moving points that each of the authors made. At the same time, I feel a cynical pull inside of me. 

It's so easy to find problems and things to complain about. It's easy to criticize the way humans have treated nature. It's easy to point out that even the nature we cherish and enjoy isn't "real" nature. It's easy to tear down, and look down upon those we think are "doing it wrong."

But I don't want to do that.

I don't want to be so caught up in criticism that I become snobbish. Even in the growing city of Fort Worth, there is true beauty to be found in the nature, even if that nature is a park that was created by and is tended by paid professionals. That doesn't mean it's not beautiful.

I still want to be positive.

Just 5 minutes away from my house is Trinity Park, where there is true beauty to be found. Is there encroachment from the city? Yes. Are there power lines cutting through the vibrant green? Yes. But is it still beautiful and something to be enjoyed and appreciated? Absolutely.

I think my point is this: We absolutely should address important issues regarding nature and our impact on it, but we can do so without adopting an arrogant or cynical viewpoint about it. We can recognize shortcomings while still having immense appreciation.

In summary: I want to aim to be both honest and positive, and full of both conviction and wonder.