On a recent episode of "Real Time With Bill Maher," the comedian posited a rather simple yet profound question. If you're not familiar with the show, Maher, with his trademark honest, biting humor, thrashes out the hottest political issues of the week. Much of the program is devoted to a roundtable discussion, featuring guests as disparate as Arianna Huffington and Chris Rock. And while Maher clearly leans to the left, his panels often encompass views from all over the political spectrum.
On the particular episode in question, the environment and the effects of global warming were brought to the table. Heading off Maher's take on the issue, a conservative commentator - whose name escapes me at the moment - denied the overwhelming scientific evidence pointing toward climate change, levying charges that the media is adding fuel to the fire of what is essentially a nonissue. Maher weathered the attack, peered back at his guest and asked his brilliantly simple question: "But don't you wanna live?"
Political leanings aside, it's a fair question. If you're living with the rest of us in the 21st century and, you know, things like science are relevant to you, it's hard to deny that our climate, our planet, our home is changing before our eyes - and not for the better. Is it a result of mankind's slow war of attrition on Mother Nature? Or is it simply the natural cycles of the Earth at play? Perhaps more importantly, does it matter?
Granted, our time on this planet will come to an end one day. But how shortsighted must one be to not take any action that might make our Earth just a tad more inhabitable for our children, our grandchildren and future generations? Personally, I'd welcome a little global warming. I'm no winter guy Give me 100-degree summer days all year. But alas, I'm as much a part of this world as anyone else and that leaves the moral ball in my court.
With this is mind, we give you our second annual "Green Issue." Inside our pages, you'll find local entrepreneurs dedicated to making a difference by promoting environmentally conscious businesses. Be sure to check out our feature on local farmers and sustainable agriculture practices, the real backbone of Bucks County. And as always, take a look at the musicians, artists and community leaders making a difference in your neighborhood.