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Blog: Government, greed, and everyone we know  



Big corporations, government, greed… I hear a lot of explanations for the environmental and social ills we face today.  

Sure, these are all contributors, but they aren’t the only issue.  With some notable exceptions, businesses and government are working within the established rules and incentive systems. The real problem is too many of us are abdicating  our power.   

We, the individual citizens and consumers who live in democratic nations, hold all the power and the potential for change. But the impact is limited by the number of citizens involved.  We need far more people to get involved, vote, and change spending habits.    

A democracy only works well when there is a well informed, engaged population.  Over the last number of years, it feels like we’ve been moving the wrong direction. But we can turn it around. 

People change most in times of desperation and inspiration. .. and we’re facing some pretty desperate times with the specter of global warming, the war in Iraq, the weakening economy, a ballooning national debt, and a myriad other problems. We’re already seeing stronger voter turnout this election cycle, and that’s a fantastic step in the right direction. We’re also seeing more and more companies provider “greener” and healthier product offerings – and they’re moving in that direction because consumers are demanding it.  

So now is the time for those of us who already vote, and already buy green, to get even more inspired.  Now is the time to inform and engage our family members, friends, neighbors and everyone else we can.  Now is the time and this is our opportunity. 

The magnitude of change needed is staggering.  Scientists now believe to avoid “catastrophic global warming”, the U.S. needs to reduce our carbon dioxide emissions by 70% to 80% by 2050. If we completely stopped using fossil fuels in our cars, buses and trucks it won’t be nearly enough.  We need substantial government involvement to create the appropriate incentives for this degree of change.  And let’s face it, with a crumbling economy, the war, and a health care system in crisis, the environment is unlikely to be top on the next president’s agenda.  So it’s going to come down to lots, and lots, and lots of citizens standing up and getting involved. 

While we have more than 8 million members at Care2, we’ve got a long way to go to achieve the kind of impact we need to have. We’ve got a powerful foundation of essential change makers – great people sprinkled throughout small towns and large cities around the world who are the necessary seeds of change. Now is the time to greatly expand our reach deep into the heart of mainstream America. 

If you think special interest groups have too much power, then help us pass legislation to limit their impact or vote out politicians who pander to them. If you think Detroit should stop producing big gas guzzlers, then join in making your voice heard, buy more fuel efficient alternatives, and demand legislation that requires better gas mileage.  It absolutely will work – but it requires me, you, and everyone we know to get involved and be part of the solution now. 

Posted: Wednesday May 7, 2008, 6:59 pm
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Just Carole (327) 		Thursday May 8, 2008, 5:28 pm


That is so embracive of you, Randy.


However, speaking only for myself, I would prefer to hear your input on the MANY issues afflicting your members contained right in the group you host, "Feedback and Suggestions."


Thank you so much.


*C*

Raven Sky (269) 		Thursday May 8, 2008, 5:34 pm
I tend to agree with Just C, to be active at the suggestion group. Most members will go to that group. I have been a member for 10 years now, and feel there is still great potential for more. We are all here collectively to contribute and help where we can, on the issues that embrace our hearts and concern us.

Mhel Manato (265) 		Saturday May 10, 2008, 6:37 am
thanks for everything you and group has done, more power!

Dar D. (188) 		Tuesday May 13, 2008, 10:56 am
Your opening statement;
"Big corporations, government, greed… I hear a lot of explanations for the environmental and social ills we face today.

Sure, these are all contributors, but they aren’t the only issue. With some notable exceptions, businesses and government are working within the established rules and incentive systems. The real problem is too many of us are abdicating our power.

We, the individual citizens and consumers who live in democratic nations, hold all the power and the potential for change. But the impact is limited by the number of citizens involved. We need far more people to get involved, vote, and change spending habits."

Very powerful, and so very TRUE. I and many others, who are known as lightworkers have been spiritually awakened for this purpose among many others. I don't expect you or anyone to believe, but just to give more hope for the glorious future of Mother Earth, humanity, and all the living on Earth.

Many are strong in believing it is only the governments, and others believe it is so corrupt that these refuse to vote. This is so very disheartening..., because a few will degrade and insult others who do vote and who don't engage in this type of "revolution". It is our belief that with unification and positive energy..., humanity can be wonderful change to this world.

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AUTHOR: RANDY PAYNTER

male, age 41
married, 2 children
San Mateo, CA, USA
RANDY'S SHARES
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