During my retreat, the Buddhist brothers and sisters were promoting "car free days".... no, not carefree days, but car free days, where we shun the use of automobiles and instead, utilize more environmentally friendly modes of transportation, such as walking or biking. September 22, 2007 is World Car Free Day.
Every mile you drive your car releases one pound of greenhouse gas into the atmosphere increasing global warming. North America, with almost one car per driving age citizen, releases the most greenhouse gas of any nation. The good news is that you can do something about it. By stopping driving or driving less, you reduce the amount of greenhouse gas in the atmosphere. And a change in your driving habits influences others. You lead by example.
For those of us living in urban areas with public transportation and destinations in walking or biking distance, this is relatively easy. For those in remote areas, it can be more challenging. But by car pooling, combining errands and activities into one car ride vs. spread out into several car rides over several days, we can really make a difference!
A message from Thich Nhat Hanh regarding Car Free Days:
"Everyone wants to have their own private car; but with the damage to the atmosphere caused by fuel emissions, our lakes and forests are drying up and the deserts are growing. Every one of us can do something to protect and care for our planet. We have to live in such a way that a future will be possible for our children and our grandchildren and our own life has to be our message."
For more information, go to http://www.car-free-days.org/index.html and to make a pledge, go to http://www.car-free-days.org/pledge.php
The Earth will thank you!
DAY OF REMEMBRANCE BLOOD DRIVE
Next Tuesday is the 6th anniversary of the September 11th attacks. Please consider giving a "gift of life" by donating blood at one of the many Red Cross blood drives being held throughout the country. In Boston, you may donate blood at Fenway Park between 6:00 am - 12:00 pm or at Boston City Hall from 12:00 pm - 6:00 pm. All donors will receive a FREE Red Sox T-shirt and gift bag. Please mark your calendar and commit to donating blood. It is urgently needed. For more information, go to http://newenglandblood.org/ or call 1-800-GIVE-BLOOD.
Thank You!
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