Changing Rules

 We scorch our lands, and pollute our waters, What of our kin: sons and daughters?

 Just to meet our demands, we have scarred our sacred lands..

Sun rises over the valley, as I sit and keep the tally..one bird flying over yonder, two squirrels singing song. 

No sights  or sounds, of any others, where could they all have gone?

Cityscapes in the distance, for we meet no resistance, build it here, bury there, never considering deer or bear.

Often I think of thee, as I perch beneath a tree; Had Mother Nature changed the rules, and they forced us to be the fools.. , pushing us away more each day 'till we starve or expire.

Turning away from our home, always forcing us to roam..

As the sun sets to the west, Forget not, we are guests.. Mind your manners, do no harm.. Take Mother Nature in your arms, For now, we too, are on the run.. 

The damage is great, but can be undone, keep her clean within your space, Enjoy her bounty, but leave no trace

LaPoint, F. 2004

Summary

The poem reflects on the environmental degradation caused by human actions such as land scarring, pollution, and urban expansion, highlighting the consequences faced by wildlife and future generations. It portrays a deep sense of loss and concern for the natural world, emphasizing the disappearance of animals and the disruption of ecosystems due to relentless human development. The speaker urges respect and care for Mother Nature, reminding us that humans are merely guests on this planet. It ends with a hopeful message that the environmental damage, though severe, can be reversed if we consciously protect and cherish the earth, appreciating its gifts while leaving no damage behind.

Highlights

🌍 Human activities have severely damaged natural landscapes and ecosystems.

🐦 Wildlife is increasingly displaced and vanishing due to habitat loss.

🌇 Urban expansion often ignores the presence and needs of native animals.

🌳 The poem invites reflection on our relationship with nature and responsibility toward future generations.

🌄 The imagery of sunrise and sunset symbolizes the continuity of nature amidst human impact.

🛑 Urges respect for the environment, reminding us that humans are guests, not masters.

♻️ Ends with a hopeful call for environmental restoration and sustainable practices.

Key Insights

🌿 Human impact on nature is tangible and damaging: The text clearly illustrates how human demands for resources and urban development have led to the scarring of sacred lands, pollution of waters, and disruption of wildlife habitats. The imagery of “scorched lands” and “polluted waters” emphasizes the severity and urgency of environmental harm. This insight highlights the need for increased awareness and action to mitigate these impacts.

🦌 Wildlife displacement and loss are direct consequences of human expansion: Through the observation of one bird and two squirrels, contrasted against the silent absence of other animals, the poem poignantly shows how animal populations dwindle as natural habitats are destroyed. The mention of “no sights or sounds” where once there was a thriving ecosystem starkly conveys biodiversity loss, which is a critical environmental concern.

🏙️ Urban development proceeds with little regard for nature: The line “build it here, bury there, never considering deer or bear” reveals a careless attitude toward natural inhabitants. This reflects broader societal trends where economic growth and infrastructure are often prioritized at the expense of ecological balance. It suggests a systemic flaw in planning and policy that fails to integrate environmental conservation.

🌞 Nature and time are persistent witnesses to human actions: The recurring references to natural cycles—the rising and setting sun—serve as metaphors for the enduring presence of nature despite human encroachments. This contrast underlines that while human activities may cause damage, nature itself is resilient but not infinitely so, and it calls for humankind to change course before irreversible damage occurs.

🌳 Humans are guests on Earth, not owners: The poem’s plea “Forget not, we are guests… Mind your manners, do no harm” challenges anthropocentric views, reframing the human role as caretakers rather than conquerors of nature. This perspective is crucial for fostering sustainable interaction with the environment, advocating humility and respect rather than domination.

💔 There is a moral and ethical dimension to environmental stewardship: The question “What of our kin: sons and daughters?” introduces concern for future generations. It underscores that environmental degradation today will have lasting impacts on those who come after us, framing ecological issues as matters of justice, ethics, and intergenerational responsibility.

🌱 Despite damage, restoration is possible with conscientious effort: Ending on a hopeful note, the poem advocates for actions such as “keep her clean within your space” and “leave no trace.” It suggests that healing the planet is achievable if people adopt sustainable lifestyles, appreciate nature’s bounty, and actively minimize their footprint. This highlights the power and importance of individual and collective responsibility in environmental recovery.