America today stands poised on a pinnacle of wealth and power, yet we live in a land of vanishing beauty, of increasing ugliness, of shrinking open space, and of an over-all environment that is diminished daily by pollution and noise and blight.
Interpretation
This quote reflects on the contrast between America's wealth and the degradation of its natural beauty and environment.
Stewart Udall's quote highlights the ironic situation in which the United States enjoys immense wealth and power, yet simultaneously suffers from environmental decline and a loss of beauty in its landscapes. It serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of preserving the natural environment amid progress and development, emphasizing that material prosperity should not come at the expense of ecological health and aesthetic value.
In practice
In a speech advocating for environmental protection, one might say, 'As Stewart Udall noted, we must remember that our wealth does not excuse the degradation of our environment.'
If, in our haste to 'progress,' the economics of ecology are disregarded by citizens and policy makers alike, the result will be an ugly America. We cannot afford an America where expedience tramples upon esthetics and development decisions are made with an eye only on the present.
Each generation has its own rendezvous with the land, for despite our fee titles and claims of ownership, we are all brief tenants on this planet. By choice, or by default, we will carve out a land legacy for our heirs.
For most of history, man has had to fight nature to survive; in this century he is beginning to realize that, in order to survive, he must protect it.
Once you learn to read the land, I have no fear of what you will do to it, or with it. And I know many pleasant things it will do to you.
Walking on willow tree roads by a river dappled with peach blossoms, I look for spring light, but am everywhere lost. Birds fly up and scatter floating catkins. A ponderous wave of flowers sags the branches.
If religion and science could be united on the common ground of biological conservation, the problem would be soon solved. If there is any moral precept shared by people of all beliefs, it is that we owe ourselves and future generations a beautiful, rich, and healthful environment.
Look at that sea, girls--all silver and shadow and vision of things not seen. We couldn't enjoy its loveliness any more if we had millions of dollars and ropes of diamonds.
The Rose is without 'why'—she blooms because she blooms.
Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.