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It�s Only My Opinion

I just saw the KCET special on the Boomer Century:
1946-2046. Marc and I are members of the Boomer
Generation (okay, so I�m 62 and technically outside the
leading edge.) As a generation we have profoundly influenced
social change and national values. But, as the documentary
points out the real challenge is in front of us. If for nothing
else, our sheer size will mean that we will continue to set
much of the agenda on major issues. The question is will we
sit back, have intellectual discussions, enjoy our lives and let
the chips fall for the next generation or will we become active
in changing things for the better one step at a time.

There are so many issues to be concerned about. So much
too champion for that it�s easy to feel overwhelmed. The �one
person can�t make a difference� feeling. Sometimes I feel less
then optimistic about our collective future. A feeling that, I
believe, I must overcome in order to motivate myself to action.

Global Warming is already a reality. Driving more fuel efficient
cars and changing light bulbs seem like a drop in the global
bucket. What it requires is governments committed to
massive policy changes and is that going to happen with our
government any time soon?

So, as Boomers, I think we need to move and quickly,
beyond discussion and remember the people we were in the
60's. Just kids, really, who believed (okay, it was extreme
hubris) that our voices mattered, would be heard, and could
make a difference. We do have power to change things in our
own corners of the world and to work to create a political
voice that is passionate about seeing life continue for future
generations. Passive retirement is not an option. Giving up is
not an option.

Of course, I have to temper all this by admitting that I
basically feel that good old Mother Earth will look after herself
in the long run. When it gets to the point where she is just
taking too much crap from us, she�ll give a good shake and
throw at least half of us off her back like so many fleas. This
may take the form of a global plague, extreme weather or
whatever works to clean up the place from the mess of
overpopulation. All the commercials were right, �It isn�t nice to
mess with Mother Nature.�

Next steps? I don�t have this figured out so I can�t preach to
anyone else. Giving money to causes is great but what about
our, time, our talents, our energy? I want to challenge myself
to do more. And I�m challenging you too. Ask yourself what
cause you care enough about to cancel a lunch date or a
tennis game once in a while and pitch in.

�Beverly Olevin � 3/29/07