I’m angry. Heartbroken. Overwhelmed.
I’m furious at the way our government prioritises the economy over people, over the environment, over decency. I’m appalled by policies that leave vulnerable teenagers on the streets. I’m stunned by decisions that censor a schoolbook just because it contains six Māori words. I’m enraged by bills—Pay Equity, Fast Track, Regulatory, Treaty Principles—that feel like they trample fairness, care, and the future of this country.
And beyond that, I can hardly believe the damage humans have done to the other species we share this planet with, and within my lifetime. Thousands are now extinct, countless more teetering on the edge. We’re racing toward annihilating ourselves through climate change, through hate, greed, and violence toward each other. This picture of a polar bear on a tiny piece of ice is deeply saddening and confronting—but it reminds me of our impact.
How did this happen in my lifetime? And why haven’t I done more? It's overwhelming.
Photo Acknowledgement: taken from National Geographic exhibition 'Pristine Seas: Bringing the Ocean Back'
Recognising What I Do
I remind myself: I have been busy. Being a mum, looking after my parents, and running a business that helps women lead healthier lives. That matters. While I accept my choices, I don’t feel entirely okay about them, so I have been taking some small actions.
I check traps on my local walkway.
I plant trees on land that needs regenerating.
I try to share my knowledge to reduce ignorance.
I sign petitions and occasionally attend meetings and protests.
What's happening next? We're going to add solar panels to our house. We’ve found several banks that offer interest-free loans to make it possible—another small step
These actions add up. And importantly, they give me a sense that I can make a difference—and that gives me hope. After all, we’ve created our society together, so if we don’t like it, we can surely change it…
One resource that helps me stay informed and take action is the Climate Club (see link below), which offers both quick actions and bigger commitments.
And beyond all the concrete actions, I try to be a good human. I believe that counts.
Claiming Our Power
We do have power. Even when the world feels like it’s crumbling, even when the despair feels overwhelming, our actions—small or large—matter. We don’t have to wait for someone else to fix it. We can take responsibility, and in doing so, reclaim some control over the world we live in.
I can’t solve everything and fix all the wrongs. But I can act. And that feels good. It feels alive.
And maybe, just maybe, if enough of us claim that power, we can start to turn the tide.
So…will you join me in taking a small action? What will you do?
Climate Club Link
