Reflection

For your blog topic this week I want you to dicuss where your own viewpoint of the environment comes from. We talked on Tuesday about how the past has shaped the way in which we percieve the "usefullness" of the environment but I want you to talk about how your own personal experiences has shaped your own view point. Did you camp when you were a kid? Were your parents very utilitarian about the environment? Did your teachers get you outside at all? Talk about your experiences. Are you ok with your own viewpoint today or do you think you would like to change it? For example, my mom always told me that I shouldn't ever go to the Bay Area because it was scary and for a long time I believed that until I decided to make the change and just move there to see for myself.

I believe that one should indulge in the beauty that this world has to offer, but in doing so also give a little bit back so that others can enjoy as well. When I was younger, I would always pick up trash that others left behind; in almost every location (be it park lake etc) and I would get peeved at those making the mess, and not giving a care. I always figured that if there weren't others around w/ similar ideals, there would be less likely of a chance that people would bother to visit those places in the first place. I mean common trash isn't very beautiful... :(. Although that being said, sadly, I too gave in over time. On the upside, this assignment provides a perfect time for reflection, perhaps I do need to change and quit being so lax about our environment.

Personally I've become quite the hermit although, I did quite a fair amount of camping when I was younger. My family and I used to set off on many back packing ventures around the Truckee area; the most often being the trail of Locke Levin Lakes, which was a 10 mi. round trip to a grand deep blue lake. Both of my parents have a very utilitarian view of nature and the environment, for it is their most natural escape from life including all the stress that comes with it.

Upon reflection encompassing this weeks blog, it has come to my attention a reminder that perhaps there is more to life than that which directly surrounds me. Thus, it has become a personal responsibility that I once again get out and give the environment another chance.