On Space

When we learned that we would be living in a one bedroom apartment and that the size would be around 700 square we wondered how we would ever fit in. Actually we fit in quite nicely, which raises the question “how much space do we really need”? And in a broader vein, “how much space are we entitled to”? And on a related subject “how many resources do we have the right to consume”? In the Doctrine and Covenants we read in section 104, verses 17 and 18:

§ For the earth is full, and there is enough and to spare; yea, I prepared all things, and have given unto the children of men to be agents unto themselves.

§ Therefore, if any man shall take of the abundance which I have made, and impart not his portion, according to the law of my gospel, unto the poor and the needy, he shall, with the wicked, lift up his eyes in hell, being in torment.

Sounds like we all need to do a better job on this one. To the extent that our consumption creates scarcity for others now and in the future we need to do better. Respect for others is a major reason to be more modest in our wants and wiser in our use of the finite resources of the earth. Something to think about is that on a global scale what is done in Argentina has an impact in New Zealand and Australia.

Seems to us to be clear that we need to be good stewards and protect the earth for future generations. The question is going to be how we do this. Which policies make the most sense? How do we continue to progress and develop resources for our benefit and still leave enough for future generations?