In climate fight, hope sustains

Previously published in the Denver Post. Re: “Climate scientists try to stay optimistic,” May 9 news story.

Thank you for publishing the poignant, practical article about keeping hope alive as we face difficult work. It was the perfect Mother’s Day gift for me this year. I am the mother of two grown sons, who I love more than anything. Because of them, I volunteer my time and energy building bipartisan support for durable climate solutions so my boys will have a better future.

Hope sustains through all our trials. Grief gives space to honor our losses and failures, big or small. Without hope, we can’t do the work we need to do. Without grief, we substitute more destructive emotions like anger and hatred. The world doesn’t need more of that.

Like the people interviewed for the article, I try to focus on what I can do vs. what I can’t and keep a nimble attitude about the work. When I’m feeling demoralized as a citizen lobbyist, I look for ways to make a positive difference closer to home, like clearing oak brush on my property or donating to local causes that build resilience and strengthen our community.

It helps to focus on progress vs. success. When I joined Citizens’ Climate Lobby, we couldn’t even say the word “climate” in a conversation with a Republican. Five years later, climate policy is a mainstream issue in Congress among both major parties, and carbon pricing has support on both sides of the aisle.

Hope sustains. Grief honors. People are good. Keep doing the work.