Global Guilt

Guilt (and/or indulgence) is the theme for our poetry group this week.  When I started to think about when I feel guilty, I realised it was mostly in association with climate change.  My life has for decades been governed by as much sustainability as I feel comfortable with.  I took my own bags to the supermarket long before they adjusted the checkout bag holders to accommodate them.  I’ve always tried to buy local, and I’ve walked to work for at least three-quarters of my paid work life.  The city council has recently asked us to reduce our water use to avoid a longer period of chlorination, but I’ve only ever watered my garden with a hand held hose or watering can, and then only for new plants and vegetables.

However, like so many others, I’m reluctant to move outside my familiar comfort zone when it comes to combatting global warming.  I still eat red meat regularly, and this year’s holiday involves a plane trip to Australia.  My walking and use of public transport are not enough to offset this.  When will my worry about global warming grow enough to change my habits, I wonder?

‘When human life comes to a halt
I’ll know it could be all my fault.’