Obama's Speech To UN - Global Economies Vs Global Warming

I just listened to President Obama's speech, which focused on the need for more urgent action concerning the consequences of global warming, delivered to the body of the United Nations. President Obama, while outlining his commitment for clean air, water, and energy, carefully stepped around how to balance those concerns with world-wide economic realities and growth from newly emerging nations.

I have written over many months that sustainable living (for individual, community, and nation), along with (smart) alternative energy practices, is not a global warming, political left or right, democratic or republican, American vs world issue.

It is a quality of life and social economic issue that should be in the consciousness of all people.

One sentence that President Obama stated that particularly stood out to me (I did not write it down at the time nor recorded it so I am not putting quotation marks) was.

What is the use of raising up the poor, if we can not harvest food or have clean drinking water?

Many of my previous articles stress the importance of water recovery, storage, and purification. Additionally, I have also stressed the importance of home gardens, and planting of fruit trees and berries on home properties.

Regardless of one's opinion on global warming, I am not a scientist and do not know enough "facts" to offer any judgement pro or con whatsoever (to quote a character from Mel Brooks, Blazing Saddles, "I am just a pawn in the game of life". ) However, I do believe in self-reliance through sustainable living practices.

Regardless of social, economic, religious, or political affiliation, we need to take a personal interest in some aspect of sustainable practices.

It can be as simple as how we consume as individuals. What we buy. What becomes important to us individually.

Will we buy that new car, or do we buy a water recovery system for our home?

Media center or new insulation?

Do we buy the latest in cell phone technology, or do we change all incandescent light bulbs for more efficient lighting?

Fast food tonight, or dinner at home made with fresh and healthy ingredients?

Our President promises change is on the way. My advice. Simplify your life where you can, get back to basics, and make home and family the focus, what will be, will be.

Brett