We live in a world of rampant consumerism where doing the right thing, be it ethical treatment of other people, animals or the environment are weighed against their impact on economic growth and return on investment. Shouldn't it be the other way around? Shouldn't we be asking ourselves "what will be the impact of my economic activity on my fellow human beings and the planet we all call home?" How did we come to this place where it is OK to tear the earth open and leave her bleeding all so that people are provided with cheap power, and someone's pockets are lined a bit in the bargain? How did it become normal to poison and deplete soil and water in order to produce excesses of corn, beef, pork and soybeans? All of them, by the way, foods that have been linked to cancer and obesity.
I believe one of the fundamental problems is that over time we have developed a deeply flawed definition of success. Today success is measured by how much you have; how much stuff, how much influence and of course... how much money you have to buy it all.
If we could redefine success, perhaps we would stand a chance of coming to some agreement on issues such as climate change, fair and equitable distribution of the worlds resources, alternative energy and a host of other issues that plague our people and our planet. What might that definition look like? I think Ralph Waldo Emerson had a pretty good idea. This is how he defined success:
To laugh often and much; To win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children; To earn the approbation of honest critics and endure the betrayal of false friends; To appreciate beauty; To find the best in others; To give of one's self; To leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch, or a redeemed social condition; To have played and laughed with enthusiasm and sung with exultation; To know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived - This is to have succeeded.
I couldn't have said it better myself. So I will say no more (for now).
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