Weekly Statement 2

Jenny Forrest

Discussion Section 005

Even though we don’t admit it all the time, and it doesn’t seem like our priority, nature is definitely important. Where would we be without it? Our world is driven by so much technology that we often forget where it all came from. Without nature, where would we get our raw materials? Where would we get the energy and power to fuel the technology that keeps us going? I believe it is safe to say that our world we be a less advanced place if it wasn’t for nature. As Professor Trumpey discussed today, our environment plays a role in parts of our lives that we would not have even expected. Who would have thought that corn is used in our batteries or cardboard? Many items that we cannot live without, function by batteries, or if we think about it this way by corn. I think about all of the things that I own, and that I believe I need, and appreciate being able to have these things because of what the natural world has produced. Regardless of if we are outside and enjoying nature, or if we just enjoy the technology and ‘stuff’ that has been produced from it, we need nature to help us sustain the environment that we live in.

Aside from the technological benefits, first and foremost, we need nature for its beauty. We get so caught up in materialism that people don’t always take the time to admire the beauty that actually surrounds us. For instance, right now, I am typing this blog post on my computer. But If I look beyond my computer screen, I can see the fall foliage that Michigan has to offer. It is calming and relaxing, and I do not take advantage of it enough. As much as I enjoy staring at my computer screen, there is a limit to how many hours I can do so without getting a headache.Sometimes it is necessary to take a break, take a walk, and enjoy the weather and nature outside. I wish I did so more often. I acknowledge the importance of this, because if we don’t get outside and enjoy our surroundings, we will not be educated about the environmental issues that we are facing at the moment. To gain more knowledge on the subject, and also to calm down and relax, the natural world is completely necessary. Whether we are witnessing beautiful weather, or the leaves have fully fallen off the trees, it is still a beautiful sight that we should not miss out on.

This image was taken in the dead of winter last year (by me). Though there is no greenery, the sight of this tree is striking and a calming sight to witness.