Definitely agree. I consider myself very fortunate to have a built-in ability to feel gratitude for even the smallest things, and suspect that even in dire circumstances, this ability would not abandon me. But my circumstances are not dire, while many others’ are and, since I value all lives, I feel a pull to help lift all boats.

Beyond measure. Services? Sunlight brings me Vitamin D. Breathing the  air outdoors, where I am among so many trees, refreshes my lungs. Nature’s colors, hues, textures, sounds stimulate my soul and my spirit. For me, not being able to spend some time outdoors would be akin to imprisonment.

I have come to know my neighborhood so much more, especially its natural beauty, and treasure the hundreds of photos I’ve taken.  I’ve identified several old, and new, invasive plants and notified neighbors via social media. 

I have watched several documentaries and webinars about racial injustice. Learning what I have has increased my determination to empower environmental justice communities to resist policies and practices that imperil the health and well-being of the residents of those communities, and to mitigate damage already foisted upon them.

Voter suppression is not as much of an issue in NJ as in other states. However, since elections are held on working day, some would-be voters just don't get to the polls due to conflicting responsibilities/issues e.g. childcare, eldercare, health, lack of computer (for registering) or limited ability, thinking their vote doesn't matter, etc. I would like to see easy access to mail-in ballots, as well as Election Day be declared a national holiday. 

Hundreds of landfills and waste sites in NJ filled and closed. There aren't any in my county (Morris). In North Jersey, I know there are landfills and waste sites in Sussex and Warren County, which are rural, but they're filling up. Several more are in south Jersey. In general, these sites have been located in neighborhoods that house lower income residents and people of color. 

It is a permanent habit. The only time I have used bottled water has been while on travel in countries where my gastric system is not acclimated to their water.