Happy Earth Month! Here at Green Living, we like to celebrate our planet every month and we know that our readers feel the same way. But April is special. It’s a time when people around the globe pay homage to this fascinating planet we all call home. Collectively we raise our voices, and hopefully awareness, about the wonders of nature and the delicate balance of ecosystems we must all work to protect.
When seeking inspiration for this column, I considered drawing from the many experts and writers who have contributed to this issue. But I decided to let them tell their stories that reflect on topics of local and global importance.
Instead, I found inspiration right in my own backyard. So here I sit, on my covered patio, taking in my tiny patch of the world. It only took a few seconds for nature’s entertainment to begin. The grackles sound like they’re having a party in an evergreen elm that seeded itself in a few years ago and now stands about 25 feet tall. Sparrows, starlings and a very vocal mockingbird add to the concert as they flit from bush to tree and back again. A date palm that also chose our backyard for its home serves as a nesting site for mourning doves. Rose buds populate the bushes and butterflies grace the tops of the oleanders before zipping quietly away. There’s a clear blue sky and a gentle breeze that occasionally kisses the wind chimes. Shades of green in a variety of textures fill the landscape.Small bursts of pink, purple, red and blue preview what will soon be a spring explosion of color. Together, the sights, sounds and gentle fragrances induce a sense of calm. Behind the scenes I am sure there are complex ecosystems at work, but on the surface, nature makes it seem so effortless as it shares so much with us.
In this issue, we have highlighted some of what nature has shared. We discover scenic hiking trails throughout northern, central and southern Arizona. We bring awareness to the plight of the endangered Mexican gray wolf. We learn that large businesses are embracing sustainability and developing a culture that infuses the importance of our environment throughout their organizations. We celebrate the actions, large and small, of those in our community who seek to make positive change. We also offer opportunities for you to get involved. Some, like Arizona Gives Day, affect us close to home, while others, like the bi-continental Earth Day Soccer Classic: Kick it! With Africa and Earth Day Celebration, have an impact here, and halfway around the globe.
I think of the wonders of nature that I have been fortunate to experience — oceans, canyons, mountains and forests — and I know without a doubt how vitally important it is to protect our planet and to convince others to do the same. There is so much more I want to experience, and more still that future generations should be able to enjoy. For those who already are making a difference, we thank you. If you want to make a difference, but don’t know how, come to one of the many Earth Month events. There will be plenty of inspirational ideas for you. Or you can seek your inspiration, as I did, right in your own backyard. While you are taking in nature’s beauty, and calmness washes over you, know that the world is worthy of your admiration and protection. So, if for no other reason, do something for the Earth this month just because it feels good.
Cheryl Hurd
Editor-in-Chief
