Vote! - the 2 weapons of climate action - personal and political

Get out and vote! It's SUPER TUESDAY!! If you still haven't decided yet, check out Grist: http://gristmill.grist.org/story/2008/2/4/23617/54464

There are two ways to combat climate change - personal action and political action. We need both. Unfortunately, all too often, climate activists will do one or the other but not both. This is a little like equipping our army - some with shields, and some with swords, but none with both. We would be twice as effective if we all had both swords and shields. There appears to be a division in personality types, however. I'm sure you all know the archetypes I refer to: the Personal Activist - your friend who wears only hemp and never showers, but, ooops!, forgot to vote in the 2004 Presidential Election; or the Political Activist - your neighbor who chairs three amazing non-profits, but, ooops!, drives an SUV and owns three homes.

To the Personal Activist: I know, I know, you're an idealist - you don't like the dirty game of politics. You don't want to vote for a candidate who doesn't perfectly represent your values, and who, God forbid, compromises. Think of political action as comparable to taking out the compost - it stinks a little, and you might get your hands dirty, but it's better for the Earth.

To the Political Activist: I know, I know, it's hard to say 'no' when excess and luxury are available to you (and all of society is telling you to go get it). But, think how much more politically effective you'll be if those intent on undermining you can no longer use "hypocrisy" as their weapon. I'm not saying you have to be perfect, just a little better. Besides, personal action can be glamorous, too. The most gourmet meal I ever ate was all locally grown. Biking to work keeps your physique healthy, and if you telecommute, you don't have to change out of your silk bathrobe ;)

Let's equip our army with both swords and shields - not just one or the other.

Get out and vote! (and drive less) :)