What kind of children our we leaving behind?

I have been asking myself this question for a while.

Let me tell you, after watching the children of our community talking about topics such as consumerism, transportation, waste, food, water, climate change, and the things we need to do to fix all these problems, I feel confident in saying that here, in Cortes Island, we are leaving behind a very aware, healthy bunch of kids, truly concerned in becoming good citizens, rather than good consumers.

And by doing this avoid repeating the same mistakes of the adults.

This happened during Friday’s night (May 23) event at the Sustainability Home Show, when the kids of Cortes presented in 5 or 6 short films their views, visions and ideas about all these topics. It was so refreshing and uplifting to listen their articulated words, showing a clear understanding of the current local and global issues, and the actions they suggest we need to take to change for the better.

After listening to these kids, my hope in the future is restored.

This level of consciousness didn’t happen by itself, this is the result of the effort of many individuals working together, primarily their teachers and parents, and other members in the community that have helped with volunteering time to tutoring in many of these matters. It is obvious they provide a healthy influence to them.

A super gigantic applause to our kids and the community. All this reminds me of that old African proverb that says “it takes a village to rise a child.”

I would like to suggest all these films are put together on a DVD and have many copies available, so every member in the community has the chance to watch their wise words and get inspired to take action on their suggestions.

I am not concerned anymore about what kind of children we are leaving behind in this community. These kids are going in the right direction indeed ! It is up to us, grown-ups, to keep supporting them as much as possible, and maybe, just maybe, learn a few things from them.

Thanks all,