AS we traveled across the United States we discovered some very unexpected things, considering the political climate and mainstream media's take on our country...
We found, without exception, that the people we met in every single place we stopped were upbeat, friendly, helpful, and above all, wonderfully considerate. From the young Ensign at Barksdale AFB who provided some pretty tasty microwave dinners when we arrived too late for local eateries, to the couple who helped me get Mom (riding ON her walker) down, and more importantly back UP the ramp at the marina in Juneau, to the young man who advised us of available ADA staterooms on the Alaska Ferry, and the young ladies at the convenience store in Williams, AZ who offered to wash my travel cup before I refilled with coffee, EVERY SINGLE PERSON we met was kind and thoughtful.
We also found, contrary to the doom-saying antagonists of the "green" movement, that nearly every place we went, people were recycling on a large scale, reducing the use of plastics, and practicing basic water conservation and pollution control. We also saw endless small, large, and gigantic wind farms and solar arrays right across the country powering private homes, farms, towns, cities, and major industrial facilities.
Don't believe the negativity being fostered by Social Media, Network News, and "Mainstream" Print Media. They are reporting the exceptions, not the norm. The mood of the country is positive. The effort to conserve and use renewable energy and recyclable products is growing in leaps and bounds. People are still basically kind and considerate. In short, the country is NOT going to hell in a hand-basket. If you don't believe me, go drive 6,619 miles of this wonderful country of ours and see for yourself!
