Here’s a gift idea
Presently, many Americans celebrate the Christmas season with social gatherings of family, friends or co-workers, take in a holiday performance, attend a children’s review or visit an outdoor seasonal event. Also they may attend a place of worship with their festive choirs to share in the true meaning of the holiday.
Unfortunately this year “Peace on Earth” has become an illusion for many American families. This is due to severe wildfires, damaging wind and flash flood incidents. These victims need immediate shelter, health care, clothing, food and transportation.
To make your Christmas one that will give you joy, try sharing from your means with those who desperately need our assistance. Your reward is the gratitude from the unknown families who may benefit from your sincere response.
Bob Sweeney, Warwick, R.I.
Commit to the climate
With all the finger pointing at corporations on climate change, I suggest that we point the finger back where it can make a difference. Here are some simple things each one of us can do to be a solution, instead of part of the problem.
• Reduce meat consumption to no more than twice a week. The effects of transportation, methane, deforestation and water consumption to feed and manage beef, pork and chicken far outweighs what a big business produces.
• Take only what you will use or order only what you will eat at restaurants. Folks at my business office get a handful of napkins, condiments and utensils that they never use and throw them in the trash (when the recycle bin is right next to it!). When you do recycle, rinse containers as food waste will make them unusable.
• When eating out, take your own container for leftovers. The containers from some places can be washed and re-used over and over. Say NO to Styrofoam, straws etc.
• Take your own cup when you buy drinks. Never get those plastic or Styrofoam cups.
• If you hand-wash any dishes, put a bowl or pan under the faucet. Catch the rinse water and put it on your indoor plants. I think it is also allowed for your outdoor trees and plants which so need water this winter.
• Install solar panels.
• Turn off what you are not using (TVs, lights, computers, etc.)
• Start an alternative transportation commitment. Drive less. Carpool, ride a bike, walk, take the bus/light rail. Plan drive days to maximize your errands.
Diane Short, Lakewood
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