Being Green is More Then Just Green

activities that somehow impact the natural environment. In contrast, I would argue that ‘being green’ has a much larger span, including taking actions to better society as a whole. Actions such as donating to a homeless shelter or speaking out about inequality is just as ‘green’ as planting a tree or conserving water.

By limiting ‘green’ to natural environment tends to discount or overlook a wide arena of actions and opportunities to make our world a better place for everyone. With the green movement having such momentum as it presently does, hopefully, those worthy individuals and organizations that are involved in improving society are reaping some of the benefits. Furthermore if you are looking for ways to lead a greener lifestyle, I encourage you to look beyond the traditional nature bound actions and lend a hand to someone in need.

True story: The other day as I was taking a lunchtime stroll I noticed a homeless man pausing under a tree. Although the sun was blazing, he was wearing a full length coat and seemed to have all his worldly possessions in a nearby buggy. On my way back from my stroll the man was still standing under same the tree. Shortly before I passed him another man, who based on his attire was quite well heeled, stopped to speak to the homeless person.

Based on the ensuing conversation, it appears the homeless person had been struggling to open a bottle of juice. Because of the actions of a stranger, who cared enough to stop and help by simply loosening the lid, it was possible for the homeless person to enjoy perhaps the only nutrition they would see that day.

That in my mind is about as ‘green’ as you can get!