I've tried to make Earth Hour more than a simple act of environmental conservation and observation. Since I began recognizing it in 2008, I have tried to make Earth Hour a time of contemplation personally, culturally, and globally. Tonight, I encourage you to do the same.
As an aide in triggering those thoughts, allow me to share a list with you made by Tony Schwartz which he published in the Harvard Business Review. In his list, Tony presents us with a side-by-side grouping of things he thinks "We need LESS" and things "We need MORE":
It matters little what you may think of specific items from Tony's list; my hope is that this will prompt you to consider the same comparison of "needs" in your own life, as it did for me.
WE NEED LESS: WE NEED MORE: Information Wisdom Shallow billionaires Passionate teachers Self-promotion Self-awareness Multitasking Control of our attention Inequality Fairness Sugar Lean protein Action Reflection Super sizes Smaller portions Private jets High-speed trains Calculation Passion Experts Learners Blaming Taking responsibility Judgment Discernment Texting Reading Anger Empathy Output Depth Constructive criticism Thank-you notes Possessions Meaning Righteousness Doing the right thing Answers Curiosity Long hours Longer sleep Complaining Gratitude Sitting Moving Selling Authenticity Cynicism Realistic optimism Self-indulgence Self-control Speed Renewal Emails Conversations Winning Win-win Immediate gratification Sacrifice Source: http://blogs.hbr.org/schwartz/2011/03/30-things-we-need-and-30-we-do.html
Whether it's during the official Earth Hour (20:30 - 21:30 local time) [Earth Hour] or during a different hour of your choosing, I encourage you to turn off your lights, your gadgets, and your daily routine. In place of your usual behaviors for that hour, light a candle, sit outside, or simply meditate in the solace of your mind and spend an hour in consideration of your choices and how they affect you, your family and friends, your community, your culture, and your planet.
