Ok, so there are still a lot of people out there who just do not believe that there is such a thing as global warming, or that there is any human impact on the planet at all.

In light of the hardline stance that tends to accompany those beliefs, I have a proposal, a mere suggestion, made with good will at heart.

Forget all the data and the disputes over it; forget all the scientists who tout it. For just a moment think back to generations past. They knew nothing of these threats – whether real or perceived – and, yet, they knew the necessity of conservation.

For whatever reason – be it environmental, economic, or heathen tree worshipping – our ancestors knew that the Earth would provide for them only if they helped her out. They lived in harmony with the land, and those that didn’t found hard times until they learned how to work with what they had. It’s visible in the population that landed at Plymouth. It’s visible in those pioneers who headed into the wilderness of the west.

In those times conservation was a means of survival, not a matter for debate. In those times, when resources were not conserved, people suffered greatly.

All this boils down to the fact that conservation is not in and of itself a political agenda; it doesn’t belong to a certain political party, and subscribing to it doesn’t automatically make you a crazy liberal tree hugger. In fact, some of the most impressive reducers, reusers, and recyclers I know are penny-pinching conservatives (conservatives subscribing to conservation? Is it a totally new concept? Republican Teddy Roosevelt didn’t think so…) Left or Right, Rich or Poor, Educated or not, conservation shouldn’t be seen as something to fight over, it should be taught to future generations as family heritage, now as it once was.

So, the proposition is this: whether or not you believe that global warming is a threat, why not try to get back to your heritage? Don’t abuse the goods that you have access to. Conserve your resources where possible. Don’t litter – it’s ugly, lazy, and disrespectful to people who have to live in the area. Save electricity where you can and save a few cents for your future.

I’m not asking for an ideological change. I’m not asking that take up yoga. I’m not telling you which political party to vote for. I’m not expecting to see you standing in the rain hugging a tree (but, trust me, it would appreciate it!)

All I’m asking is that you do your ancestors proud and follow their example of conservative living.