my program makes me sad

All organisms in even the most remote places now contain trace contamination of organo-chlorine chemicals that humans have manufactured and dispersed into the environment, such as DDT and PCBs.


Columbus - greedy, bloody conqueror and enslaver
- we have edited his faults to create a hero/adventurer, a man whose aim was to "get rich and save the world"
- his true legacy was actually one of conquest, enslavement, rape and genocide
- Columbus was the originator of the slave trade in the Americas


Just two depressing facts out of many that I must put to memory every day. This semester has given me almost complete lack of hope for humanity. We daily choose to ignore our numerous faults and instead, pretend that our unsustainable way of life will last forever. Our ruin is inevitable.

I think I am lucky. If I had nothing else, I can't imagine losing faith in humanity, losing faith in myself, and being able to continue with life. I am lucky because I have something else to place my hope in. I am beginning to truly appreciate the importance of steady, unchanging love.

Light of the world, Thy beams I bless;
On Thee, bright Sun of Righteousness,
My faith hath fixed its eye.
Guided by Thee, through all I go,
Nor fear the ruin spread below,
For Thou art always nigh.

Not all the pow'rs of hell can fright
A soul that walks with Christ in light;
He walks, and cannot fall.
Clearly he sees, and wins his way,
Shining unto the perfect day,
And more than conquers all.

I rest in Thine almighty pow'r;
The name of Jesus is a tow'r
That hides my life above.
Thou canst, Thou wilt my Helper be;
My confidence is all in Thee,
The faithful God of love.

Wherefore, in never ceasing prayer,
My soul to Thy continual care
I faithfully commend,

Assured that Thou through life shalt save,

And show thyself beyond the grave
My everlasting Friend.