The news today....

The news today from me is a bit of a mixed bag.  I'll give you the bad news first. 

I went to a public hearing last night about rezoning and development of a particular bit of green space near the marina.  There is a proposal to build at least 2000 private homes on what is public property. The woods and habitats here are one of the most important sites on the east coast of North America for migratory birds. Similarly, there is now ample habitat for migratory butterflies, dragonflies, moths, and other creatures. And yet, it appears that the great machine of development is huffing and puffing its way to destroying the habitat in favor of luxury homes.  

I have been to quite a few public hearings.  Some that I have participated in have completely reversed and shut down destructive proposals.  This one passed without a whimper from the Planning Commission and the public. 

I think about how out of touch so many are with the natural bounty of the land.  A new strip mall goes up, replacing woods and fields.  People barely notice.  It's just progress.  But really, what is it?  Today's children are increasingly losing touch with nature.  Can that be reversed in favor of nature-oriented education, recreation and eco-tourism?  I don't know whether the great machine can be stopped.

On another note,  a friend has relapsed after four years.  He has a shoulder injury for which he was prescribed painkillers.  He was supposed to get surgery but continued to take the painkillers instead, except that he was taking them at three times the normal dosage.  When they ran out, he started drinking.  So he was messed up on opiates and booze.  He went to detox but checked himself out after a few days, saying that "they weren't treating him right."  He acquired some Xanax and is drinking again. There is nothing to be done until he is entirely willing to quit.  The  irony is he said he didn't think that anyone would be there for him.  What he doesn't realize is that so many people will be there for him when he is sober.  When he is a drunken, sorry mess...well...not many want to be around him.  When the alcoholic is driven to drink, he drives others away. 

Now the good news.  I am planning to head south along the coast in the sailboat on Saturday.  It will be a 12 hour run to get to this beautiful southern town.  It is one of my favorite places to visit.  If the weather cooperates,  I should be there sometime early Sunday morning.  I'll anchor out for a few days and row to shore, visit the book stores and shops and enjoy the ambiance.  And maybe get a dock slip for a night in order to get a good hot shower. This will be the first test of Sojourner's "legs" offshore for an extended distance.  I am looking forward to it. 

All is going well with those I love.  No one is sick or in hospital at the moment.  That is very good news.  I am off to a meeting at noon and then a meeting with a fellow I sponsor.  The rest of the day will be boat and cruise prep time.  I am looking forward to all of this.  Hope that your day is going well.