To write requires an ego, a belief that what you say matters. Writing also requires an aching curiosity leading you to discover, uncover, what is gnawing at your bones.

The choices and decisions we make in terms of how we use the land ultimately affect our very DNA. Environmental issues are life issues.

We are taught not to trust our own experiences. Great Salt Lake teaches me experience is all we have.

I still have great faith in democracy. I have great belief in the power of community.

I think wherever we are, we can create an atmosphere of openness and trust, where women and those who feel marginalized feel safe to speak the truth of their lives.

Wherever we are, we can call for and create these kinds of settings for authentic dialogue. This is the seedbed of social change. In a voiced community, we all flourish. But it's not easy. Revolutionary patience and persistence is required. It can be messy, it is unpredictable, and change, especially structural change takes time - time and leadership and the will of an engaged community. What is needed? In a word, courage.

The danger is in what we codify, commodify, and exploit.