Becoming cold to the world
Mark Pavilons

While I'm a great fan of this planet and all of its inhabitants, I find I'm constantly left scratching my head in disbelief.

Seldom do I use the terms "now, I've seen everything" or "wow, that's surprising." It's unfortunate, really, because the world is becoming so askew that nothing shocks, surprises or upsets us anymore. We should be utterly horrified by everyday headlines, but we in the safe and comfortable western world seldom bat an eye.

What does that say about the future of our species and all of its unique, human qualities? While all good things, it is said, must come to an end, I truly hope that doesn't apply to mankind. But, considering the term "good" isn't one I'd readily use when referring to human beings, perhaps we're safe.

From reality TV to world disasters, horrible strife, military conflict and global environmental challenges, one has to wonder what keeps humankind's boat afloat. At times, the odds in this galactic poker game are against us, yet we're "all in."

There are times I'm tired of the trivialities associated with modern living.

I overhear people discussing which type of lunch meat (nitrate-laden food substitute) lasts longer in the fridge, or whether one should keep asparagus in a plastic bag or in water. Others debate which fad diet achieves the best results and which new gizmo they should purchase.

We are trained consumers - buyers of all that is good, from laundry detergent to TV sets. We are taught to consume, everything from wraps to magnificent burgers. We faithfully digest unhealthy snack foods and wonder why we're growing larger and larger.

The Reverend Billy and the Stop Shopping Gospel Choir in the U.S. believe that consumerism is overwhelming our lives. It may be too late to be saved!

Think about it, people. Peel away any layer of superficial consumer enticement and what are you left with? Artificial ingredients, harmful chemicals and things created by slave labour.

The image of zombie movies and how these lost souls move about in unison springs immediately to mind. It's quite funny. I wonder if seeing a huge lineup outside a box store for a 50% off sale is just as humorous.

And the grip of consumerism affects our everyday lives and conversations. Sure, idle chatter and water cooler talk passes the time. We're social creatures who rely on human interaction. Personally, I'd rather discuss global poverty, read the Dalai Lama's autobiography and leave this rat race for the peace and quite of rural New Brunswick (where the cheapest homes in Canada exist, not to mention a slower pace and cleaner air).

Has our consumption (there was a time when that was the name of a disease) affected our human traits and our compassion for our fellow men and women?

Truth, I have learned, is stranger than fiction.

"Casino eyed as city saviour," cried the front-page headline in a major newspaper recently. Not something you'd ever expect to hear or read. "Rice shortage sparks surge in hunger deaths," exclaimed another. One press release I still have trouble digesting was titled "Victory for Sustainable Use of Elephants." Yes, dear friends, this is just what it indicates. Commercial trade in elephant hair, hide and certain carved ivory items was approved at meetings in The Netherlands recently.

These issues should cause some eyebrows to raise - no, leap off one's face. But, alas, most of us are more interested in the state of our e-mail and reducing spam. The trade in elephant ivory has no bearing on the price of concert tickets or gasoline.

In this day and age, one would think most of us would travel and get away as often as possible - escape if you will.

An acquaintance of mine recently mentioned he works with several Bolton residents, who've never ventured north of Highway 9! They remain close to home, even staying indoors for days on end during sickness or inclement weather.

While I'm well aware of statistics that indicate most of us live, work and play within 300 kilometres of where we were born and raised, limiting our experiences is just plain dumb. The province is a very big place and there truly is very much to discover. Our planet is also a considerable expanse of real estate that begs to be explored, investigated and enjoyed. But I would advise avoiding those areas that encourage trade in elephant ivory!

While I was a late travel bloomer, once you've ventured abroad, it's like an addiction. You make it your mission to seek out new life forms and boldly go ... wait, that's Star Trek, but you get my point I'm sure. I was even thrilled to accompany my mom to Mexico a few years ago. Priceless.

Our awareness is only as big as our knowledge and first-hand experiences. Seeing is believing.

We can all become a society of ostriches or we can sweep off the sand and open our eyes to the world around us. It only takes a willingness on our part to understand the bigger picture and be part of the whole.

We don't have to turn our backs on the big box stores and wear garments made from hemp. But we should make an effort to understand.

Hey, why don't we start with warming up to one another?