Independence day?
It is the 4th of July and for some unaccountable reason I have been watching the Jaws marathon on one of the channels. I have a special affinity with the original version, I have to admit. The movie was filmed on Martha’s Vineyard where my family used to summer (and continues to summer, when we get the chance) and there are many places that I recognize and remember fondly when I see them on film. Many happy memories of swimming or fishing or even riding on the ferry, which on that 4th of July weekend isn’t as fun as it might seem.
Watching all this beautiful, pristine water reminds me of another monster marauding in the water: the continuing BP oil spill and its aftermath. We know there is devastation there and loss of marine life and livelihoods. We know that we have sullied our waters to the point that they cannot take any more fouling. Collectively our first response has been outrage, then anger and now fear that the damage done cannot ever be fixed.
It may well be true that we have spoiled this part of our Gulf waters for a long time. But I continue to join my voice with others who pray for healing in the region, not hatred; love instead of blame; cleansing instead of fear. I send energy to this area daily. Please join me in envisioning a restored Gulf region, full of healthy sea creatures and marine plant life.
And as we Americans today celebrate our independence from British tyranny, let us plan and prepare for the day we will be independent of the tyranny of oil to which we have subjected ourselves. It is time and we are ready. Let’s make it so.
