Letter about grandchildren and great-grandchildren…
To the Editor,
What are we being told by thinkers and scientists about the years ahead?
Some predict to just 2030, some go to 2050 and some predictions go to 2300. I am very concerned as many of our grandchildren and great grandchildren will be living into the next century. It is important that we start seriously planning for their future, so they may have as good a life as we have had, or better.
The predictions we hear today are often very pessimistic. Climate change seems to be at the top of many peoples’ concerns, with less food available, flooded coastal areas and massive migrations.
What about the continuing population explosion which has been going on for longer than the past century?
Today we have 90 million refugees. As that number increases. How will they be integrated into different societies so they can fulfill their human potential?
And perhaps the biggest question of all: will the earth still be inhabitable?
I am thinking of nuclear warfare.
I mention these problems facing us to show that we have much to do, to ensure a good life for those who are coming after us. We all want the best possible,
but it will take great effort on our part. Nothing is more important and valuable than the well-being of our decedents.
Please think seriously so planning can start now.
There are times I feel I must rush off in pursuit of hopefulness.
A few words from Chief Seattle may be appropriate now: “We do not inherit the earth from our ancestors; we borrow it from our children.”
Sincerely,
Harvey Benson
Harmony, Minn.
Anthony Mc Connell says
Mr. Benson, what a nice commentary. You are correct in stating we as a species needs to change. But here are the truths. Nuclear war will be decided a small handful of people. None of the rest of us will have a say. The fate of billions is in the hands of a few. Global warming is changing our planet, but reusable energy, electric cars, and emission reductions will never happen in large enough epoch to change anything.. The US, China, India, Europe and so many other industrialized countries first do not have the technology to provide enough electricity for a world of electric cars. Batteries are horrible at storing energy, and the materials that are needed (I.e. Lithium, Nickle) have their own serious consequences to our environment. So, keep it simple. Treat people nicely, don’t leave the lights on or the water running. I heard a comedian lately (?Bill Barr?) He said people asked him what happens after we die. He said, “A lot of things. We’re just not here to join in”.