Some argue we should get coal, oil and gas out of the ground as quickly as possible, build more pipelines and make as much money as we can selling it here and abroad. Their priorities are the economy and meeting short-term energy needs so we can live the lives to which we've become accustomed.

I see a world in the future in which we understand that all life is related to us and we treat that life with great humility and respect.

We can't blame children for occupying themselves with Facebook rather than playing in the mud. Our society doesn't put a priority on connecting with nature. In fact, too often we tell them it's dirty and dangerous.

It is not too late to take another path.

Nature surrounds us, from parks and backyards to streets and alleyways. Next time you go out for a walk, tread gently and remember that we are both inhabitants and stewards of nature in our neighbourhoods.

Feeding our energy appetite is top of mind for many people these days.

Scientists have been warning about global warming for decades. It's too late to stop it now, but we can lessen its severity and impacts.