Working Towards the Future
As we advance our vision of a more just and sustainable world, we doubtlessly encounter countless obstructions, pain, frustration, and perhaps even despair. Some days are certainly harder than others.
On those occasions Sustainably Motivated turns to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. (MLK) and takes solace in his reminder that, “The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends towards justice.”
His words are powerful and relevant. They help soothe some of the pain, and put things into historical perspective (see also James Baldwin). Together, we will eventually overcome even these enormous obstacles. With the impending climate crisis at least, we really don’t have much of a choice.
Setbacks Arise
We are currently experiencing a climate emergency. However, with the recent rise of the political right at an internationally level, and the election of Donal Trump as President of the United States, things do appear pretty bleak. It’s definitely disheartening for those of us committed to averting the climate crisis. To curb greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and protect our natural resources, we need to be rapidly transitioning towards sustainability. We are putting untold lives at risk.
Instead, the world’s largest economy just put in charge a man who denies science and will likely pull the US from the historic Paris Climate Accord. It’s certainly painful to witness. Yet MLK reminds us that these present injustices are obstacles to be overcome.
The End of the Arc
Much like the Civil Rights Movement, the Environmental Movement is ongoing and will require continued hope and commitment. Eventually, we will succeed. It’s only a matter of time and dedication. During these darker times however, take inspiration from MLK and other proponents of science, justice, and equality. We will make it to the end of the arc.
Sustainably Motivated 