Nzingha Austin (nzingha.aj@gmail.com), Master of Education student at the University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
The polar ice caps have begun to melt rapidly, and the levels of the ocean are rising. In some areas, smog covers cities like a carpet and the people inhale toxic air. I am sorry for my children and grandchildren because this is the world we are leaving behind. We have put money, convenience, and our desires above everything. For the benefit of humanity, I hope that they make better choices in order to change what is happening. I hope that the next generation takes care of the environment, takes care of one another, and learns from the errors of the past.
With a global focus on the economy, we have destroyed the environment. In Brazil, during the years 2000-2006, more than 93,206 square miles of rainforest were lost due to deforestation. This deforestation caused by clear cutting for framing has in turn destroyed the habitat of animals. According to WWF, there are more than 5,000 animals that are listed as species in danger of extinction. However, all is not lost. The young have the power to change our impact on the environment. It is important that the next generation consider the impact of their purchases and make better decisions. Small changes can make a big difference, such as recycling and reducing their waste. In a bigger way, youth need to exercise their power to vote and demand that the government make changes. It is only through small and big steps that we will save the environment, and in the process, ourselves.
My second hope is that the young care for one another. With the changes in technology, communication is fast and very accessible; with the click of a button, one can send a message to anyone. Unfortunately for youth, this access has led to an increase in cyber-bullying. I advise perpetrators to consider the feelings of their classmates and be the one who helps others rather than causing suffering. In addition to helping classmates, get involved in the community and show empathy to those who do not have anything.
Finally, and most importantly, the young need to learn from the mistakes of the past. I know that the older generation have committed many mistakes. However, they have the wisdom of experience. I recommend that you listen to their advice. Read the history. During the two World Wars, millions and millions of people were sent to their death. I wish that the next generation chooses peace and fights against injustice. In the words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. These are my desires and aspirations for our children and grandchildren. Be better than the current generation.
