Publisher’s Corner
Enjoy Holiday Moments Before We Roll Up Our Sleeves
As the holiday season arrives, many people are circling
the wagons and tightening their belts. Some would argue
that this type of economic calamity is way overdue and that
we have been living beyond our monetary means for some time
now. I guess it’s hard to argue with that as people
are over extended on their home loans, their credit cards
and many are finding it hard to face the realities of the
ghosts of spending past. Taxpayers are asked to bail out
big business even as their own small businesses struggle
to keep the doors open. Seems like no one will bail out
the small retailer this holiday season. There is no golden
parachute for small family-owned businesses that count on
a healthy economy to even make ends meet. U.S. automakers
are struggling because they made bad business decisions
for decades. They were arrogant in their view of what American
car buyers would tolerate and demand from their vehicles
as gas prices continued to rise along with the planet’s
temperature. The “Big Three” either did not
have on staff green visionaries or failed to listen to those
who perhaps spoke up about the public need for smaller,
more fuel-efficient vehicles. The truth is, this is a case
of bad business practice, and if most of us make those kind
of mistakes we are out of a job. And even though no one
wants to see massive layoffs, I am sure a new vision needs
to come out of Detroit as we hope will come out of Washington
in the very near future. All of us need to put on our thinking
caps and our new mantra should be: innovate, innovate, innovate.
Just as computer companies are born in garages, so too can
be earth-friendly fuel cells and other technology that will
take our often idea-starved social consciousness well into
the 21st century. For now we have to make do without becoming
too melancholy and morose. Fact is, the opportunity for
change is at hand. This is a good time to embrace the love
of family, community and planet. Every small change you
make for the better will have big results. When you do purchase,
buy from local businesses. As you look at possibly altering
your own personal or family behavior, try to be mindful
of where your food, your clothes, your gifts and other personal
items come from. Think about how you can become GREENER
in the days, months and years to come. There is little doubt
that we will see new, GREENER initiatives coming out of
Washington sooner than later, but the first and most important
initiatives come from you and your family, your business,
your place of worship and your community. The holidays are
a time of great joy for many, even if they are struggling
economically. Gather with family and friends. Sing songs,
eat good food, share the cheer of the season. Let’s
enjoy the good moments of the holidays and then roll up
our sleeves and get to work at untying the knots in our
entangled lives.
J.B. Lester, Publisher
