The future is a severe taskmaster. It is difficult enough to focus five years ahead, let alone 20 or 50. Yet some measure of future orientation is necessary, not only for our survival, but the well-being of our children and grandchildren. I’m talking about climate change.

Taking responsibility for this problem is hard. Other matters are pressing. Many believe, with over 300 million people in this country alone, individual action counts little.

Ancient Athens was different. A real democracy existed, at least for those who were citizens (not women, children, or slaves). About 30,000 adult males were eligible to vote on any resolution of the city-state in the fourth century B.C. By contrast, in our republic we elect representatives to do the job of governance at a distance. Thus, we are less involved in our future unless we choose to become active beyond backing office holders.

A September 16, 2014 New York Times article by Justin Gillis describes a new report “declaring that the necessary fixes (to global warming) could wind up being effectively free.” If so, any concern about the cost of remedies won’t stand in our way; that is, if we have the will to push the issue.

Until, however, we (and I do mean the two of us) martial the gumption to persuade our government and the rest of the world, little can be expected. I suggest you read and act on the following alert from Rosaliene Bacchus. This weekend provides you with the chance.