WHERE DOES MUSIC FIT IN?

BY: JEAN LEJEUNE

It is sometimes, even often, overwhelming to shoulder the realization that befalls us when we look honestly at what has become of Earth. Humans have just now patented their 1 billionth chemical. One patented chemical for each 6 or 7 of us. From 2 billion persons to 10 billion in our life time. And as if that weren’t enough to change things here, we’re changing the climate too, and (here’s that music) “We’ve only just begun….”

As overwhelming as these things might be, and as saddened as we may feel, we still feel the responsibility to conserve it. “Why?” I ask, somewhat impishly. The answer may seem obvious and trite but, indulge me gentle reader. “For what reason do we feel a responsibility to conserve Earth? Presumably so that successive generations may enjoy it also?”

“Yes. Of course!” comes the hearty unanimous response.

Then, it is the enjoyment of it that is the most important.  Enjoyment of life on Earth is why Earth is worth conserving. Thus, we have a responsibility, not only to conserve but even more, to enjoy our life here.

My friend Anne in Calgary is well know in the community of arts and letters. In conversation once about how meagerly the arts are supported by government and others, Anne observed that people are so much more vocal about supporting Health Care, but enquired “What the fuck do all these people want to be so healthy for?”

We know now better than ever that kids learn from what they see much more than from what is said to them. Please do help conserve this garden Earth but as well and more over,  live well, love and tell your children and your friends about it by walking the walk of enjoyment. Write, draw, paint, film, act, photograph and yes, play, sing and dance about it. We owe it to ourselves. It’s a drunkard’s dream (thanks Robby Robertson) if I ever did see one.

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