For the love of our families, friends, colleagues and AMERICA!
This is real and important. Occupy Wall Street relates to all of us. Click to read article published on Examiner.com.
In remembrance of 9/11 on this 10 year anniversary
Every year, I experience a sinking feeling of pain and anguish over what happened on 9/11 ten years ago. Sadly, this is the event of my generation (and all people living) where we remember where we were and what we were doing when we saw the breaking news. First astonishment. Then, disbelief. Then, shock. Then, pain. Never never never acceptance.
I remember who I called first. My father.
I remember the fear I felt at having to drive over the Golden Gate Bridge to a job that insisted I come to work that day.
I remember the selfless souls of the first responders who risked their lives to help others. Sadly, many are now suffering illness due to their heroic deeds.
I remember associating our life in America to the many countries worldwide who are afflicted by terrorism every day.
I remember the wake-up call. No one is safe.
I remember being laid off from my dream job in my dream city, San Francisco.
I remember a life that changed forever on this day, 9/11.
Still, the reality is I only experienced the anguish of my own loss of life path and loss of dreams. My deepest empathy is really for the people who lost their loved ones. The loss of so many people and their futures, their dreams and their contributions.
There are no words to describe the unnecessary loss of life due to someone else’s calculated actions. Imagine how someone intended to cause this destruction, loss of life and pain. Unfathomable really. Then imagine all the good you can do!
With all this said, I only wish that people connect with people. Take the first step to say hello, smile, listen, show empathy, be kind, be patient and genuinely want to be of service to others. I hope people think outside themselves at a greater good and how just one act of kindness can send a rippling effect around the world.
Wishing everyone peace and kindness today and everyday for the rest of your very valuable and influential lives.
We will have a lifespan ten years longer than our children
Jamie Oliver. Jamie Oliver. Jamie Oliver.
At the beginning of the school year……..
Please invite the teachers, admin and staff to watch 2011 Ted Talk Annual Award Winner, Jamie Oliver (only 20 minute video). Please invite the parents. Then, take a field trip to a farmer’s market or organic farm.
Our school lunches must change. Now not later.
I want my child to live 10 years more than me. Not have have a lifespan 10 years less.
Ban high fructose corn syrup and processed foods. Ban high fat foods (French Fries, for example). Ban any food grown with hormones, pesticides, antibiotics, and herbicides. Ban use of dangerous preservatives (MSG, for example). Ban GMO’s (genetically modified organisms). Ban fake sweeteners (Aspartame, for example).
Ban these foods in the grocery store, too. Stop demand! Stop buying this unhealthy “food.” Europe insists on higher healthy standards. Why is America settling for cancer, diabetes, heart disease, obesity and high cholesterol? Why is America allowing this unethical method of “food” production?
Increase organic fresh fruits and vegetables. Increase grains. Increase water. Only serve USDA certified organic and grass fed meats. Increase natural sweeteners like Stevia or Agave Syrup.
It is horrible that corporations are putting profit above health concerns for us and our kids. They need to be global citizens and adhere to corporate social responsibility standards.
You saw wet cement and wrote your name
During my morning walk, I realized that everyone is just trying to make a name for themselves! A name written on cement screams, “Please please remember me.” Tagging on the walls communicates many messages; one of which is I AM IMPORTANT. One wedding anniversary, I remember my husband also carved our names on the cliffs of La Jolla (along with many other people’s words of devotion). How romantic – a symbol of longevity! If our kids, parents, teachers, politicians, activists, and entrepreneurs just want to make a name for themselves … I ask, “Why not leave a legacy?” Why ONLY write your name on a wall or cement?
Be an example for all those you meet. Be the light that lights the candle (analogy for anyone who loved RENT as much as I did!). First, write a list of what gives you peace. Then what makes you happy. Then sad. Then angry. In these lists, you will find your legacy!
Many thought leaders before us have said that you gain as much, if not more, by giving rather than receiving. I know how, as Americans, our motto is BIGGER IS BETTER or I want more, more, more. What about switching it around to giving more, more, more? I’m not talking about giving away your hard earned buck$. Rather, devote your passion to make a positive change to pass on to future generations.
What do you want your grandkids to say about what you did (or didn’t do) to help poverty, human rights, starvation, clean air and water, education, human trafficking, food safety, disease or animal cruelty? I’m committed to my campaign, “TRIUMPH OF HUMANITY.” Or, at the very least, make you think about how you spend your time and how you are building your legacy.
I’m troubled by values of greed and selfishness. It must be lonely for the people who define success in terms of what they own or how much power they have. There are people who will never reach their goals because it will never be enough. These people also care more about the outcome than they do the means. They can justify abhorrent behaviors and actions. As we have seen, unharnessed power can lead to the collapse of an economy, genocide, and hedonistic behavior.
The more people that commit to a cause (and bond with other like-minded individuals) to make a positive change will create an impactful momentum. It will send a very clear message … we care about others as much as we care about ourselves. It will also state clearly that we hold ourselves accountable and will hold those in power accountable, too.
While you determine what cause warrants your undivided attention, there is something you can do right now! I would like you to vote with your pocketbook — simply by thinking about each of your purchases (big and small). Our economy is ruled by what we purchase and what we choose not to purchase. I believe we can affect decision makers (both governments and corporations) choices by purchasing items that are produced ethically, safely and with less of an impact on our earth’s resources. Support the companies that are doing the right thing for the right reasons (aka CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY). Make sure that companies that operate with no ethics FAIL!
I must sign off for now. My hope is to have peaked your interest enough for you continue to ponder YOUR LEGACY … then take action!
For more information or inspiration on related topics:
SAN DIEGO SUSTAINABLE LIVING, EXAMINER.COM http://www.examiner.com/sustainable-living-in-san-diego/hollan-mcbride
TWITTER http://twitter.com/BlazonLaurels
FACEBOOK http://www.facebook.com/pages/Blazon-Laurels/78921907009?ref=ts
ABOUT ME http://about.me/HollanMcBride
BLAZON LAURELS WEB SITE http://www.BlazonLaurels.com
Children and Families. Health. Nature. Conservation.
Beautiful Day with Beautiful Memories
CHILDREN ARE THE FUTURE!
Tomorrow, I am reading a book and leading an exercise to a group of 26 five year olds in San Diego, California. I truly believe these kids can influence the world! Starting here in Sunny Diego! One house at a time! One parent at a time!
I used to volunteer to read to five and six year olds about whales and the ocean. I remember never wanting to leave the classroom. Those precious smiles. Those beautiful eyes. The innocence and complete amazement. I can only hope the kids of today are as sweet and pure as I remember them 20 years ago!
Actually, I believe they are that sweet and pure. I now have my own daughter that teaches me to look through her eyes everyday. What a gift!
The book, “One Tree” written by Leslie Bockol and illustrated by Jillian Phillips will be the first book I will read this year. It’s designed for ages 3-6 and is made from 98% recycled materials. For more information on this book and others, please go to www.innovativekids.com.
I have been researching conservation for kids. Googling and YouTubing mostly. I have found many great videos on water conservation and energy conservation. Here are two I liked in particular (please watch with your kids):
- Teach Kids to Go Green: Picture Book – http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iyNPa37G_2s
- PWC Kids Talk Conservation – http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bM9VNv7Ak6U
Even though these videos are incredibly inspirational for kids. I believe there might be an even more important message for these children and their parents.
NATURE! FRESH AIR! BEAUTY! 
What do these mean to you? How long has it been since you went on a hike? Or camping? Or swimming in the ocean? I ask because I believe we are surrounded by paved roads, parking lots, traffic, lawn mower noise, deadlines, errands, television, computers, smart phones, WII, pools, etcetera. I think you get the idea! We are surrounded by distractions that take us away, far away, from nature and serenity!
One of my new year’s resolutions this year was to take my daughter on a hike twice a month. I’ve been good to my word! Lake Poway, Torrey Pines and San Diego Beaches to name just a few! Now, I would like to influence other San Diegans to break away from the daily routines and go find nature, take a hike, have a picnic. YES, see some trees (you don’t need to hug them … unless you want to!).
Not convinced yet? Here’s a great video to inspire you and your kids to reconnect with nature:
- Re-Connecting Kids with Nature – http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a3vgC3qCbGk
I also took the recommendation of the video to go to www.discovertheforest.org. Just place your zip code and search for forests and parks close to you! You may search for 15, 30 or 50 miles away. You wouldn’t believe how many are listed for San Diego County.
FOR THE PARENTS
Last but not least, I want to offer one more resource for the parents:
- Watch this video first about Last Child in the Woods – http://richardlouv.com/books/last-child/videos/
- Then please read, “Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children from Nature-Deficit Disorder,” a substantial, well-researched and provocative book about how the absence of nature in our children’s lives has a direct link to the rise in obesity, attention disorders and depression. This book is written by our very own Richard Louv, columnist for the San Diego Union-Tribune. The Boston Globe says, “This book is an absolute must-read for parents.”
“I like to play indoors better ‘cause that’s where all the electrical outlets are,” quote from a fourth-grader in San Diego.
Capitalism. Consumerism. Consumption … WASTE!
Americans … It’s in our nature to buy, buy, buy. Even after 9/11, our president asked us to go make purchases to save the economy. Oh my! This is the basis of our system — CAPITALISM. We see commercials and brand-placing in the movies. Every magazine offers a plethora of ‘things’ we must have! If we could only have ____, we would be rich, thin, or happy. This charade makes me laugh. Nonetheless, it is our reality … as Americans!
What guides your purchasing decisions?
- What is the best product?
- What is the best price?
- What is trendy?
- What do the Jones’ have?
- Is there free delivery?
- What colors are available?
*I’m asking you to THINK DEEPER as a consumer and as a human being!
Have you thought about?
- What materials were necessary to make your coffee maker?
- Who assembled your child’s Aurora doll?
- How many miles did your oranges need to travel to your neighborhood grocery store?
- How much water was needed to make your carpet?
- How much electricity was used in producing your car?
- How much waste was produced while making your wide-screen television?
* All the questions listed above relate to the Supply Chain. These are valid and essential questions!
TED: Ideas worth spreading
I’m going to recommend you watch four impactful videos. The first three are TED VIDEOS. If you haven’t heard of TED, yet. You must get on the bandwagon! The most amazing speakers from around the world speak of their business and their philosophy. This could be your inspiration for more creativity and innovation! The fourth video is magnificently simple, poignant, and profound. I also found it quite funny.
1) Auret van Heerden at TED: Making global labor fair (17:46)
http://www.ted.com/talks/auret_van_heerden_making_global_labor_fair.html
“This presents us with a huge moral and ethical dilemma. I know none of us want to be accessories after the fact of Human Rights Abuse in a Global Supply Chain.” – Auret van Heerden, Fair Labor Association
“Multi-national [companies] are protecting human rights.” – Auret van Heerden, Fair Labor Association
“Human rights comes down to a simple proposition. Can I give this person their dignity back?” – Auret van Heerden, Fair Labor Association
2) WWF’s Jason Clay at TED: How big brands can help save biodiversity (23:52)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dCFVhRkElYM
“You cannot wake a person who is pretending to sleep.” -Sudanese Man
Top 15 Commodities: Palm Oil; Cotton; Biofuels; Sugarcane; Pulp and Paper; Sawn Wood; Dairy; Beef; Soy; Tuna; Farmed Shrimp; Tropical Shrimp; Fish Oil and Meal; Farmed Salmon; Whitefish.
“100 companies control 25% of the trade of the world’s most significant 15 commodities.” –Jason Clay, WWF
“Whatever was sustainable on a planet of 6 billion will not be sustainable on a planet of 9 billion.” – Jason Clay, WWF
3) William McDonough at TED: Cradle to Cradle Design (20:03)
http://www.ted.com/talks/lang/eng/william_mcdonough_on_cradle_to_cradle_design.html
“How do we love all the children of all species of all time?” – William McDonough, Architect and Designer
“It took us 5,000 years to put wheels on our luggage.” – William McDonough, Architect and Designer
“Water is considered a human right by the United Nations.” – William McDonough, Architect and Designer
“COMPETITION actually come from Lating ‘COM-PETARE’ that means STRIVE-TOGETHER.” – William McDonough, Architect and Designer
4) The Story of Stuff by Tides Foundation, Funders Workgroup for Sustainable Production and Consumption (21:25)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9GorqroigqM
“We are running out of resources. We are using too much stuff.” – Annie Leonard, Sustainability Funders
“The United States represents 5% of our world population but is using 30% of world resources and creating 30% of waste.” – Annie Leonard, Sustainability Funders
“There are over 100,000 synthetic chemicals in use in commerce today.” – Annie Leonard, Sustainability Funders
“We have more stuff but we have less time for things that really makes us happy.” – Annie Leonard, Sustainability Funders
What a waste!
Not only actual trash filling up the dump or landfills. It’s wasteful to use too much energy or water. We have wasted time and human effort. Most of all, our common sense and creativity. We are underutilizing innovation. We have lost our connection with humanity. COME ON NOW … WE CAN DO BETTER!
What is your CONSUMPTION (aka CARBON) FOOTPRINT?
Go ahead, wake up! Take one of these short quizzes created by UC Berkeley. Think about how you are contributing to the problem. Think about how you can be part of the solution.
The U.S. Household Calculator enables individuals or households to calculate their carbon footprints and make customized pledges to reduce carbon footprints and save money. http://coolclimate.berkeley.edu/uscalc
The California-Specific Calculator with Community Support allows individuals or households to calculate their footprints and make customized climate action plans in California (2011). http://coolclimate.berkeley.edu/CA-version
The U.S. Small Business Calculator enables small business owners or managers to calculate the carbon footprint of their business and make customized pledges to reduce carbon footprints and save money. http://coolclimate.berkeley.edu/business-calculator
Thank you for reading. Thanks for pondering. Thanks for taking action.
What is your legacy?
What did you do on Martin Luther King, Jr’s birthday? Wishing someone a HAPPY MLK DAY just doesn’t seem right.
I did enjoy my day off of work with my daughter. I didn’t write my Monday morning blog, as usual. We went to the pool and swam on an 80 degree San Diego January day. However, before the holiday activities really began…I thought about Martin Luther King’s legacy.
No, this isn’t a history lesson.
Rather, just a reflection on how one person can shape public opinion and rally others into action for the good of all. I appreciate MLK for all he did to bring social justice issues to the attention of all. Public opinion changed. Laws were enacted. It is a better world because of Martin Luther King, Jr’s actions and sacrifice.
Admittedly, MLK was not a perfect human being.
Neither was Clinton, Nixon, Bush, or Kennedy. I would like to make an argument that you don’t have to be perfect to make a positive impact.
This blog entry is intended to make three strong points. Hopefully, they will resonate!
- Start doing the ‘right’ thing wherever you are now: at work; at home and in your community. Try to make a positive impact when you can.
- Don’t worry so much about being perfect all the time. This is an unfair burden to place upon yourself. Progress is better than perfection!
- What is your legacy? What kind of life do you want your grandchildren to have?
I’m on a mission to re:shape how people think.
I believe we have a certain responsibility to think outside of ourselves. Our actions affect others. A smile can ignite the weary. That is a small example. I have grander ones, too!
As individuals, we can make an impact just by speaking up for what is right and just.
We can shape public policy. More importantly, we can shape public opinion. Businesses need to hold your trust so you continue to purchase their products or services. Don’t allow powerful business people and politicians make decisions in their best interest. Hold them accountable to make decisions in you and your families’ best interest. You can vote at the polls or vote with your purchase decisions!
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) ideology is a catalyst for holding businesses accountable.
- One corrupt CEO can bring down the value of the dollar and our strong economy.
- One unethical food producer can poison our children and cause cancer.
- One clueless manufacturer can dilute the purity of our water and oceans.
In closing, what would you like to be your legacy?
Thank you for reading. Thanks for pondering. Thanks for taking action.
Why does eating healthy cost more?
It’s true. Research shows that it costs 20-30% more to eat organic foods. Studies have also shown that people, in general, are willing to pay 20% more for ORGANIC. If you spend $200 dollars a month on groceries and then decided you would eat only organic. Those same groceries would cost $240-260 each month. This is manageable for people that have the income to make that purchasing decision. Not so good for people that are scraping by to pay rent or utilities. Hopefully, you continue to read and learn why it is better for you to eat organic and how we can all do it more economically.
What makes food non-organic?
Organic products have avoided all use of toxins in growing or producing your food. Everyday, the food you eat contains chemical pesticides, toxins, growth hormones, and antibiotics. Have you thought about what it’s costing you, your family, your health to continue to eat non-organic foods?
Also, these non-organic foods do not taste nearly as good as the organic ones. You scoff? Try it! Check out a Farmer’s Market one of these days. They offer tastes of just about everything! Ask them how they grow their food and why! Might as well taste it. You’ll agree … it’s delicious. Also, get educated by the experts!
What do those labels mean?
Organic Labels
- 100% Organic. THUMBS UP.
- Certified Organic. THUMBS UP.
- Organic. Hmmmm? Sometimes yes. Sometimes GREENWASH (just a way to make you want to buy it!)
Beef Labels
- Regular beef – Cows are kept contained, fed hormones, antibiotics, supplements , grains, ground-up animal by-products. (YUCK)
- All natural beef – Cows roam free in fields, no hormones, antibiotics, or supplements (some exceptions). Fed grains. (BETTER)
- Organic beef – Cows roam free. Never given hormones, antibiotics, supplements. Fed grains. Never given food treated with pesticides or chemical fertilizers. Sick animals do not work, they are allowed to heal naturally. Cows parents had same health standards. (EXCELLENT)
- Grass fed only organic beef – Cows roam free. Never fed grains. Eat fields and hay when weather doesn’t permit free-grazing. This is the healtiest option. (GOLD STANDARD)
Check out the PLU codes. 9 in front of the PLU code means organic. Alternatively, an 8 means the fruit you are about to buy was genetically engineered.
What can I do at home to stretch my money AND keep my family healthy?
Choose what you can afford to eat organically. My choices are: ORGANIC MILK (100% of the time. The non-organic contains puss from infection, antibiotics, blood. The mere thought of drinking non-organic gives me a gag-reflex), Fruits and Vegetables that don’t have a thick skin like APPLES and GRAPES (I can save money by purchasing Bananas and Oranges that have thick skins. I just don’t eat the skin!), and ORGANIC BEEF or ORGANIC “GRASS ONLY” BEEF. I always look for new options in the grocery store and compare prices and labels. New items present themselves everyday!
Avoid eating foods with MSG, a preservative. Sugar isn’t so healthy either but avoid high fructose corn syrup, saccharin, aspartame like splenda, equal, and all of the blue, pink, yellow pouches! The best substitute for sugar is Stevia drops. It’s safe-even for people with diabetes. It’s a natural product.
When eating fruits and vegetables, you can rinse them with Citrus Magic Veggie Wash. This will remove 95% of all the harmful chemicals from your fruits and vegetables. It’s a natural product.
Eat less meat. I’m not taking a stand on being Vegetarian or Vegan. I think people must make their own decisions about lifestyle changes like these! However, I do believe we could pick one day a week not to eat meat at all. Or perhaps, just have less in each serving. In order to get the protein you need for your body, you could eat less than a fistful! Still hungry? Load up on organic vegetables! Just try it. Eat half your usual intake of meat and twice the amount of vegetables.
Where shall I shop?
There are Organic brands now offered at all of the grocery stores. I believe this is their way of market research! If we all only purchased organic when there was a choice given, maybe they would only offer organic? Then the costs could be less just because of our buying power!
Alternatively, there are many health-oriented stores. I know that I always feel like shopping at Trader Joe’s is one of the most economical shopping trips! There are others like Whole Foods, Sprouts, Jimbo’s, Wild Oats and so many more!
Farmer’s Markets are a great option as well. You probably have one near your home! Not only is it affordable but it’s healthy! It’s a community venture. Meet your neighbors. Buy locally grown product…usually organic! Listen to live music at some. Make it a weekly family tradition.
What about eating in a restaurant?
Some restaurants are organic. Some use organic products 90% of the time. Encourage them to do so. Give them positive feedback. Progress and awareness will only give us more dining options. I don’t know about you … I do indulge when I go out to dinner. Hmmm. Give me a filet mignon with that delicious port-wine reduction, sautéed asparagus, a glass of Cabernet Savignon and Chocolate-Amaretto Mousse. Yes, the calories would be enormous. However, if I could eat this meal knowing that I am not being exposed to chemical pesticides, toxins, growth hormones, and antibiotics … I could REALLY enjoy this meal!
What can we do to reduce the costs of organic food for everyone? Simply put, Supply and Demand. Every time you make a purchase, it’s a vote! That’s how our economy works! The more of us that purchase these healthier options, the better for everyone! Also, the more who buy it, the less expensive it will be. It could be affordable and accessible for everyone! Eventually, the market would demand that no chemical pesticides, toxins, growth hormones, and antibiotics could be used in our food. Maybe even the government will get more involved! People, both purchasing and growing wouldn’t be exposed to chemicals. Animals would only be raised with the most humane practices. We can make these demands and we will be heard if we put our money where our heart is. Healthy and humane practices in growing and raising the foods we eat!
Thank you for reading. Thanks for pondering. Thanks for taking action.
Special thanks to Harmony Clearwater Grace in her Diet Made Simple guide to eating healthy!
2011: New Beginnings, Paradigm Shifts
Last week, I posted a few observations about what got me HERE. Perhaps, even what got you THERE! It’s likely that we make both good and bad decisions everyday that either promote or disintegrate sustainability. We don’t really know how much we can do, how easy it is, or the real reason to act responsibly. Heck … You may not even know what ‘Sustainability’ really is! My goal for this year is to educate and inspire you to take a few steps toward sustainability. My dream is that someday, it’ll be second nature. The only choices provided will be responsible ones.
IMMEDIATE INDIVIDUAL ACTION DOES NEED TO BE TAKEN TOWARD SUSTAINABILITY. IN DOING SO, THE CORPORATIONS WILL FOLLOW!
For starters, we need to:
- Eat natural organic foods to prevent cancer and 10-year old girls developing breasts.
- Reexamine portion sizes and ingredients. Eat what will satisfy but not what will continue to make us obese.
- Purchase what we need, not all we want, in order to save the earth and its’ resources. Support the green businesses financially with your purchasing decisions.
- Demand that items are not manufactured shabbily. Companies need to care about the quality so we are not filling the dumps with even more junk.
- ‘Watchdog’ the production cycle to make sure items are produced ethically and humanely without abusing, harming or extorting developing/developed countries people, resources or the end-user.
- Act responsibly when discarding our trash and used items. Can it be recycled? Can someone else use it? Can it be repaired? Maximize each items’ use.
From what I’ve read, Europe is way ahead of the United States in adopting new innovative practices to support the green movement and to help to save our planet. Americans, it’s time we learn a bit more about what we can do and how easy it is to do. It’s also about time we connect the dots. No air + No water = No life. American businesses, I’m talking to you, too. You need to see clearly that operating a sustainable business is not about more costs. This is about saving money. Saving lives. Rescuing the future of the planet. Not to mention, rescuing your business from a disaster of obscurity! You could lose the competitive advantage to successful sustainable business enterprises.
To close, I’ll add some inspirational/alarmist quotes for momentum and passion to further ignite this paradigm shift:
“We must change our lives, so that it will be possible to live by the contrary assumption that what is good for the world will be good for us.” ~ Wendell Berry
“Eighty thousand different chemicals now manufactured end up everywhere from our stratosphere to our sperm.” ~ Donella Meadows
“… [E]nvironmental forces transcend borders and oceans to threaten directly the health, prosperity and jobs of Amerian citizens… [A]ddressing natural resource issues is frequently critical to achieving political and economic stability, and to pursuing our strategic goals around the world.” ~ Secretary of State Warren Christopher, April 9, 1996
“Nothing in nature is exhausted in its’ first use. When a thing has served an end to the uttermost, it is wholly new for an ulterior service.” ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson
“Sustainable growth has to be focused on a functionality not a product,” and that “the next major step toward sustainable growth is to improve the value of our products and services per unit of natural resources employed.” ~ DUPONT business philosophy
Thank you for reading. Thanks for pondering. Thanks for taking action.
NOTE: Quotes extracted from Natural Capitalism: Creating the Next Industrial Revolution by Paul Hawken, Amory Lovins, and L. Hunter Lovins. A book I highly recommend if you are ready for a paradigm shift in your personal beliefs or business practices.
