Wildfire Smoke and Man’s Vulnerability
It occurred to me that for all the bullies in the world who have no regard for humanity, enough wildfire smoke inhalation could stop them in their tracks from plotting mischief. It could give them something else to think about, where they would not prey on the innocent and vulnerable but help seek a solution to a humanitarian threat such as global warming. I am being hopeful here.
The recent bombardment of smoke abuse in the nostrils of many of us on the continent of North America shows just how much power man does not have, and how much we are not in control. Who are we to stand up against uncontrolled smoke and God’s mighty winds?
We cannot build trenches or fences to keep out the tiniest of particles from our lungs. We do not need to spend billions of dollars to buy ammunition to retaliate against the smoke. We are powerless and helpless to that threat. There is not always enough manpower to bring the smoke under control. We have to rely on the elements: rain or wind shifts to get some relief. This situation is a lesson in humility for all of us. But will some of us learn to be humble?
From Masks to Masks
Just when we have eased off wearing masks, we’re back to wearing them for another reason. We also realize we can’t see the clouds because the sky is gray or orange, depending on where you’re located, the time of day, smoke intensity, and the position of the sun.
The smoky conditions have made us shed tears, given us an itch in our throats, made some of us choke, and a good many of us think of moving to another part of the globe. Some who never thought of migrating do so now.
Most acutely affected are those who suffer from respiratory illnesses. But even those who consider themselves well, suffer. We all depend on fresh air.
Holding Out Hope We’re Better
How can we stop this if the fires are expected to burn all through the summer? It is said the smoke has even reached Europe, all the way from Canada. Who would have thought that could happen? It is also said some fires were deliberately set. I hesitate to believe that anyone could be so cruel. We’re all better than that. Right?
