Beliefs

If Not Now, When? 

What are the biggest health challenges in your community? 

• Lack of access to quality health care?

• Lack of access to quality grocery stores and fresh food?

• Lack of physical activity in your schools?

• Lack of nutritious food in your schools?

• Lack of sidewalks or safe streets? 

Whether your community has one or all of these challenges, what are you doing about them?  Apathy, hopelessness and powerlessness are not acceptable options.  Yes, there are many things outside your control; however, you have more power than you think.

When was the last time you voted?  Not just at the ballot box, but with your dollar power? When was the last time you asked your local grocery to stock better quality/healthier food?  Or, refused to continue shopping there until selection improved?

When was the last time you attended a city council or county commission meeting to request more sidewalks and safer streets? Or when was the last time you attended a school board meeting to request regular physical education classes, recess and better food in the cafeteria?

We cannot afford to sit idly by, or wait for someone else to do “something.” Our lives, and especially the lives of our children, depend on us taking action NOW!

In case you're not aware, we are currently raising the first generation of children who will have a shorter lifespan than their parents.

Before you ask "What difference can one person make?" I urge you to watch any one of the following classics:

• Weight of the Nation

• Forks Over of Knives

• What's On Your Plate?

• Food, Inc.

• King Corn

• The Future of Food

After watching any or all of these, I dare you to tell me you’re not motivated to do “something.” Not sure where to begin? Let me suggest some ideas:

• Review your local school's Wellness Policy, and demand better food and more physical activity for our youth

• Support local farmers; or start a local food co-op, CSA, or community garden, and make the food accessible and affordable

• Vote for more sidewalks and green space in your community

• Say "no" to the proliferation of toxic dumps, cell phone towers, and power lines in heavily populated communities

• Participate in the development of your local Community Health Plan

As a taxpayer and member of society you have the power to demand better products and services for yourself and your community.  Like Ghandi said, "Be the change you wish to see in the world."  The power is in your hands.

So, meet me on The Natural Pathway; we've got work to do!