If You Do Anything For Earth Day, Stop and Admire South Jersey’s Beauty

Everyone loves to say they're all about preserving the environment and make the world a better place, yet we're always so quick to complain about where we live.

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Everywhere has issues, but at the end of the day, you have to acknowledge the fact that South Jersey's beautiful. Take every other issue you may have with the state and politics and such to focus on the landscape in which you live. Focus on that for a moment.

If you live in Salem or Cumberland Counties, then you can drive down the road and see gorgeous farmland for miles. Cape May and Atlantic Counties; let's face it... there's nothing better than taking in a beach sunset. What about the Pine Barrens? Hike the Pine Barrens for 5 minutes and you'll find at least one sight you can appreciate.

Today is Earth Day. Not everyone is going to get out there, spread awareness about the importance of environmental protection, and go plant a bunch of trees. That's not what I'm asking of you. What I am going to ask is that you take a minute today to appreciate the gorgeous slice of this planet that we call home.

Go take in that beach sunset or maybe go for a drive in the country. Take in all the beauty that South Jersey has to offer. My hope is that if you actually take a second to appreciate it, maybe you'll remember that feeling the next time you flirt with the idea of throwing trash out of your car window or leaving a plastic water bottle next to your car's parking spot rather than walking it a few feet to a recycling bin.

You don't have to become president of a bunch of environmental organizations to do your part in preserving our region's beauty. It starts with you. Appreciate where you live and what's around you. Let that feeling dictate your behavior going forward.

Happy Earth Day, everyone!