“sometimes I wonder whether the world is being run by smart people who are putting us on or by imbeciles who really mean it” - mark twain

I’m annoyed. yesterday, California vetoed a bill that would have led to a statewide ban on plastic bags. so why did California lawmakers shoot down this bill? well, because it wasn’t in their “economic” best interest to support it. I’m so tired of arguing about the state of the economy when species are going extinct. at what point are we going to wake up and realize that the planet can only sustain so much? pollution, deforestation, climate change... you name it, we’ve got it. so why don’t we give a shit?

yes there are people actively involved in fighting these issues (I like to consider myself one of them), but there is an even greater percentage of people (especially those in high-powered positions) that continue to ignore the issues plaguing the world, bringing us closer and closer to catastrophe (yes Sarah Palin I'm talking to you). want to know why the economy is so shitty? simple. some people (a.k.a. capitalists) care more about their pocketbooks and drilling for oil in a national wildlife refuge than the health of the planet! It doesn’t take a Harvard degree to know that plastics are derived from oil. not to mention that oil is not only a significant source of pollution, it’s also a finite resource! what do you think will happen to the economy when we run out of oil and no longer have the ability to power our homes, business, and industries? you got it, we're gonna be SOL (shit outta luck). I’m not asking people to give up their cars, or start walking to work, but jesus! at least acknowledge that there's a problem and stop endorsing the kind of behavior that got us into this mess (uh hum, using plastic bags) in the first place!

what the world needs right now are activists. not necessarily the Greenpeace variety (although that would help), but people who actively want to make a difference and be the change they wish to see in the world. If the only change you wish to see is geared toward your own personal fiscal gain, fine – we could do without your help. but if you’re concerned for the welfare of the planet and the future fate of humankind then stand up and voice your concerns! even better, do something about it! we don’t need politicians to start making these important changes. we (the people!) hold the power to enact change. and as for the lawmakers in California…

… fuck ‘em.