The less optimistic among us love to point out that “green” is a trend, and, like all trends, that it will fade with time. I proudly say that I’m not green because it’s trendy, but because it’s who I am. I strive for beauty and balance in my life, and that means respecting the people, plants and animals around me. I’ve raised my standards and have come to expect a world where everybody cares about the consequences of their actions.

More than just an accumulation of ecologically-sound actions, being green has to be who you are. It’s an intuitive thing; it means taking into account your neighbors, the trees in your yard, the birds nesting in that tree, and the bugs that sustain those birds. It means being aware of the big web that holds this world together, and then letting your actions come from that awareness. Everything is interconnected.

Respect, self-awareness and future-thinking are at the heart of being green. Nobody can do it all, but all of us can do our best. I don't think green is a trend; I think we're all finally waking up to ask the important question: how will my actions affect the seventh generation?

Image: Mayr

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