pre-post, class date: 11/30/11; written date: 11/28/11

At the meeting in the gymnasium in Plaquemines Parish, Louisiana, the unity of the people there is what cought my attention the most. As the BP representative was throwing words together in a mush, the audience understood exactly what incorrect facts he was trying to wrap up and hand to them, so they spoke up for themselves and their opinions, letting the representatives know that they did not want to hear anymore and that they did not trust them. It was then described that there was a loud cheer from the crowd as though the local football team had just scored a touchdown. That kind of unity is an example of what every town, state, and ultimately nation needs- it's just a shame that it usually takes a severe tragedy to bring such unity out of us. In the article by Naomi Klein, she opened our eyes to what is essential- broadening our perspective of how different ecosystems other than the gulf itself- in this case, a marsh- was so horrifically poisoned.

I found the article by G. Reid Doster to be uplifting in the most necessary of ways. It was written in truth and so calmly, and should be necessary ready for anyone who has or will fall victim of a technological disaster- which is essentially all of us. In Richard Olson's article, I adore how he engaged in "real talk" with us. Not only is he speaking on the entire audiences level, but he's not being overly dramatic or negative. He's speaking the raw truth, but also not trying to cripple us with fear; he address the positive sides as well, which I believe is so vital for several reasons. In his own words, "I write in a grim and sober time, but the future is by no means hopeless."