Friday, September 18, 2009

rise 25

“We do not inherit the earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children.” ~ Native American Proverb

Green tip: Have you ever considered what your money goes to? When you invest in a mutual fund the dollars go towards purchasing shares in companies, but which companies are the shares in & what do the companies create and support. Do the companies manufacture weapons? Do they have operations in nations where the regime in control represses the masses? Do they pay their workers well? Do they cause harm to the environment? Do the companies have similar morals & values to your own? Consider Socially Responsible Investing (SRI) where you put your money where your mouth is. Imagine getting not just a return on your investment, but also a positive return on society and the planet. For more information, check out
Social Investing 1 or Social Investing 2

“Humans think they are smarter than dolphins because we build cars and buildings and start wars etc., and all that dolphins do is swim in the water, eat fish and play around. Dolphins believe that they are smarter for exactly the same reasons.” - Douglas Adams

Life tip: What makes your life full? What takes your breath away? Is it nature? Children? Adventure? No matter what it is, do it. Do it now.

“Climb the mountains and get their good tidings. Nature's peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees. The winds will blow their own freshness into you, and the storms their energy, while cares will drop off like autumn leaves.” – John Muir

Good Info: Not sure how to reduce your carbon footprint or whether it’s better to offset your footprint before or after reducing your footprint. If so, check these out:
Carbon Footprint 1 and Carbon Footprint 2

“All I ask is this: Do something. Try something. Speaking out, showing up, writing a letter, a check, a strongly worded e-mail. Pick a cause -- there are few unworthy ones. And nudge yourself past the brink of tacit support to action. Once a month, once a year, or just once.” - Joss Whedon

Book recommendation: To take a critical look at the government & media, check out: The Exception to the Rulers: Exposing Oily Politicians, War Profiteers, and the Media That Love Them by Amy Goodman (of Democracy Now! fame)

“Be the change you want to see in the world.” - Mahatma Gandhi

Reduce, reuse, rejoice!