Mar 28 2009
Lights out!
This evening the goat and I participated in Earth Hour 2009. My house is pretty efficient as it is - we have not run heating or cooling systems for several days now. Really, the main energy outputs at my house are from computers and television - we often use small lamps or open windows for lighting. So while the gesture was a minute one as far as energy consumption in my own house is concerned, I still enjoyed participating.
I feel like Earth Hour is more important as a symbol of unity and cooperation than as a way to actually make a difference in our environmental footprint, but I also think that showing this solidarity is very important. I experienced this fellowship not only as a member of a global movement, but also as a member of my household. My goat and I spent the hour together talking. While the goat and I talk quite a bit, our conversations are often punctuated by electronic distractions. There was something quite nice about sitting around together enjoying candlelight and one another’s company. In a way it was like the aftermath of a hurricane, minus the devastation and worry that comes with it (in fact, the power outages and subsequent neighborly bonding are my favorite part of hurricane season, which is a major part of life in Florida). I am very much looking forward to next year’s Earth Hour (and I will publicize it in advance like I SHOULD have this year).
