"...Leopold’s
basic beliefs regarding ecosystems are now clearer to me. My
understanding is that the land that surrounds us consists of mutually
supporting and co-dependent parts. Thus, this natural system should be
treated as a “community,” rather than be regarded as a “commodity.” We
must act with the environment rather than act on it, as Leopold realized
in “Thinking Like a Mountain.” In acting with the land, we must
remember that it is our responsibility to “preserve the integrity,
stability, and beauty” of these communities. Accordingly, the beauty of
today's teamwork lies in this analysis.
Leopold's belief that it is important to find a balance in nature is
directly applicable to the relationship among people. We are part of a
community, as we are part of the land and a part of those who share it
with us. Just as Leopold explains that we must have respect for the
mountain and its surrounding environment, we, too, must have respect for
our peers and school mates. Keeping this in mind, it is important to
remember that humans are in fact simply components, not chiefs of our
community. We must first realize and come to appreciate other
individuals as a whole before unity and harmony in society can be
achieved."
.JPG)