Editorial

By: Sal Lema

How Green is Carmel?

In the April-June, 2007 issue of CITOC (the Central Information Carmelite newsletter) there are a series of articles about global warming and the need for the world populace to reduce, reuse and recycle to reclaim our world. I was very impressed with the articles and encourage you to visit the website: Carmelites.info/citoc (click on 2007), to read these for yourself.

I think about global warming and its effects on life every time I fill my car up with gas; every time I receive a utility bill and every time I buy groceries at the market. But I don’t just think about the effect it has on me and my family, but rather the effects it will have on the next generation. How will the children of today survive as adults in the world of tomorrow? What will fuel their cars? What will run their generation plants? What will they eat or drink?

It is not what we do, but the fact that we do something at all that matters. Each little item in itself does not seem dramatic, but collectively it will make a big difference. Changing light bulbs to a more efficient type is one of the cheapest methods to save. Conserving water by low water tank toilets, taking shorter showers and collecting rain water and gray water (from sinks, and drains) to recycle for watering lawns and plants will have a major impact on our water resources. Using less hot water, turning down the thermostat in winter and raising it higher in summer saves energy, which saves money while also cutting pollution.

One of the biggest sources of pollution and waste is through burning gasoline. Because of our love of the automobile and the notion that bigger is better, we continue to consume this precious resource. The cost of oil today is a direct result of our wasteful consumption.

Several Carmelites in the province have taken a major step in slowing the consumption of oil. They drive hybrid vehicles. I followed their lead and purchased one myself. Since driving this fuel sipping vehicle I have developed a different life style. Hybrids are not exactly a status symbol. They are not the hottest looking, nor fastest cars on the planet. In fact, it takes some getting used to driving a hybrid. You are constantly being passed up on the road. Some are just curious to see the car; others can’t wait to pass you by. Many shake their head wondering why you insist on driving the legal speed limit, avoid fast starts and glide along before braking. They wonder why you would spend so much to get so little.

My little effort has produced an effect on my life. I don’t rush as much, but rather enjoy my drives to and from work. Changing our habits isn’t easy. And of course, hybrid vehicles are not the right choice for everyone, but there is merit in driving more efficient vehicles. Rather than sit on the side lines and talk about what to do, doing something to help will end up making all the difference. It may not be your personal choice, but what is the price of your children’s future worth anyway?

Editor's Post

Letters to the Editor

I wish to express my thanks to those of you who have graciously answered my request for assistance through the Carmelite Review annual appeal. The staff is most grateful for your support. Several comments about the magazine were also received. Below, are just a few that I wish to share with you in this issue.

Anna S., of San Diego, CA, writes: “I’m a Regional Coordinator of the Lay Carmelite Communities in San Diego. During our annual visitation in 2007, I encouraged all our members to subscribe to the Carmelite Review magazine. They all agreed that the magazine is an excellent media of communication. It is very informative, fruitful, and a part of ongoing formation for all Lay Carmelites.”

Rita H., of Kinnelon, NJ, writes: Love to get and read the Review—so good to be connected.”

Michael R, of Kansas City, KS, writes: “I do enjoy reading the Review. I recommend that the website be more current. In today’s world the internet is the preferred communication link for many of us.

Dear Michael, You are correct as to the future of communications. We have added several new features to our website. Space being an issue, there are often articles and pictures that remain on the cutting room floor after each issue is printed. The additional articles and pictures will now be available to view on the website. Carmelitereview.org now also features a comment section. This blog allows visitors to read and share their views on each article with others. We hope these additional features will be of interest to you.

Hermits of Saint Mary of Carmel write: “We want to express our delight in the issues of Carmelite Review. You’re doing a wonderful work.”

John G. of North Riverside, IL, writes: “The Review is a joy to read! I look forward to each issue. The Carmelite Order is to be commended for letting donors know what’s going on.”

Jill B., from Elko, MN, writes: “I would hate to miss an issue.”

Sister Bernadette from Chicago, IL, writes: “I share the magazine with all our sisters. They truly enjoy reading the magazine.”

Pat B., from Fairfield, CA, writes: “The Carmelite Review is a lovely magazine—great to keep up with all our Carmelite friends—I always pass my copy on.”

Dora G., from Houston, TX, writes: “A sincere “thank you” to who ever submitted my name to the Carmelite Review. I have enjoyed each issue.”

Florence S., from Warsaw, NY, writes: “Each issue is so professionally presented. I can tell all the effort behind it.”

George S., from Park Forest, IL, writes: “As a former Carmelite seminarian now in his late 60’s, I enjoy the articles and pictures which feature Carmelites whom I know. It is heartening to read of the work of younger Carmelites and to be kept abreast of all the good work being done by all Carmelites.”