I recognize that I have lived a life-style that has added to the problem -- I am aware of it every week, when the garbage goes down my long driveway to get picked up and added to yet another landfill. But I try to do better every day.

While I was writing the essay, I found myself thinking back to the last interview I did with Chief Waterman. We did it shortly before 1999 became 2000, and many people were antsy about computer grids, etc. Paul spoke about "divine intervention" meant sharing and looking out for others. Strange how the public was on alert for 2000, but seems far less aware of the truth about climate change.

There are, of course, all types of social novocaine that numb us to the reality of nature. One that stands out is when politicians say we only have thirty or fifty years to make significant changes before devastation comes. Baloney. We passed that point decades ago. It is here, now, and will only gather in force.