This course has made me think more critically, more creatively, and more often. Often, our class discussions leave me unsettled. There is always more to do. At times, its overwhelming.

I came into this class with an “all or nothing” mentality. You either live sustainably or you don’t. In essence, this is true. Yet, we have to pick and choose our battles (probably my biggest lesson from university thus far). Understanding that I can’t snap my fingers, change every behavior and bad habit, and fix the world’s problems made me think more long-term and solution-focused.

“I change myself, I change the world.” -Gloria Anzuldua

Changing the world is a big task. At times, I feel like my actions don’t matter. But that’s not true! It’s a ripple effect. If I make composting the norm at home, that’s 3 more people who will catch on. Little actions soon turn into sweeping changes that have the power to change the world. As a consumer, I make conscious choices about who I give my money to and why. Supporting local, sustainable businesses instead of saving a few bucks speaks volumes when money talks. Taking the extra few minutes to learn where my food and clothing are coming from- especially who it impacted to end up in my fridge or closet- is worth it.

Sustainability must be the norm. Soon it cannot be a point of difference, it has to be automatic. I’m excited to see where we, as a society, are in a few years. I hope we make big strides toward saving the earth from complete destruction. We have the power, after all!