Just had a lengthy phone conversation with Wildebeest, our older son. He and his partner are navigating choices involving their future together and what that might look like. Without going into detail, suffice to say the decisions they’re being forced to make are greatly influenced by the state of this country, the global community, and the planet itself. The ongoing chaos and degradation weren’t caused by them or any other young people in this world, and yet, those grim realities are shaping their choices.
I know it’s a pointless use of my energy but there are days I feel immense guilt for being part of a very privileged class and generation that brought about much of what is wrong today, and then blithely brought two children into the mess I helped create.
Thank you for reading this far. Here are some cormorants (and ducks) for your time.
December 12, 2025
Tracy Abell 
I wish your son and partner all the best in the choices they have to make. Our relatively young nation appears to be undergoing a rebellious adolescent stage.
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Thank you, Rosaliene. It all boggles the mind, heart, and soul. I was able to nap a few minutes in the company of my cats as the rain fell on the roof, and now feel a bit more grounded. Wishing you and yours a good evening.
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You can only do what is possible, in any given moment, to overcome the challenges that each day brings. Be steadfast ❤
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I appreciate those words of wisdom and you, Rosaliene. Solidarity!
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Solidarity! ❤
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Sending hope to all of you.
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Thank you, Cindy. All good thoughts to you and yours, as well.
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I’m sorry your son and his partner have to go through these tough decisions, Tracy. As far as the guilt goes, I think you’ve set an inspirational example of transforming guilt into positive action.
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Oh and ps. I LOVE that cormorant (and duck) photo!
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I’m really glad you love the photo! I still remember that day and how excited I was to see them all perched on that huge cedar log out in the strait. I ran on my sore heel to where I could get a bit closer and it was such fun to watch them all ride the log as it floated along. An awesome memory and I thank you for enjoying it with me!
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It’s a pleasure! I love watching them dive under water and then waiting to see where they pop up.
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It is such fun! 🙂
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You’re very kind. I’m learning, slowly but surely, that guilt is wasted energy.
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It sure is.
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You’re right that it’s so unfair for the young people! But it sounds like they’re looking at life realistically, which is to be admired.
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I know you get it about the young and what they’re being forced to deal with, Becky. Thank you for finding something positive in how they’re facing these challenges. I appreciate you.
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Six of my eight grandchildren are now young adults, and I think about these issues for them so often…
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It can be very, very hard to sit with. I’m glad they have a grandmother who understands, though. So much healthier for them than willful denial.
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The need to be part of a supportive community, a community of people who care is more important now then ever in my experience. Keeping hope alive by modeling what you would like to see happen.
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Those are wise words, Jasper. Collective care is vital now. I’m so glad we’ve also connected across the miles.
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These are such hard times. Sending my best wishes and healing thoughts to all, Tracy.💜
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I appreciate you reading and sending good thoughts, Carol. Thank you so much and please know I’m sending good thoughts to you and yours.
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💜🌹
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Maybe I was too idealistic or maybe we were selfish, but in 2007 even knowing what we knew about climate change and the world being unstable even then we decided to be brave and try for a child, our thinking was that we would have hope and we would try to bring into the world two futures leaders (replacement value) and also the joy of feeling “firsts” again which had become rare for us. Now we could see the world through a new person’s eyes, “baby’s first snow” etc. We tried and nothing happened for years and we thought, “Well it wasn’t meant to be” we’ll try to just be supportive for younger people the best we can.
Then in 2009 (after the 2008 financial crisis no less) I became pregnant. It was high risk, but we were successful, we tried one more time and miscarried and we couldn’t go through that again, so we said one is good. Despite all the anxiety, fear and stress I’m glad my son is here with us. Him and his friends do care about their futures and people around them. I volunteered a lot in elementary school and I continue to volunteer now and then. I’ve never seen myself as a “kid person”, I don’t naturally gravitate towards working with kids or being with them as I’ve known some women to be, but I’m here for people, all people and I’m stepping up the best I can to support younger people. I agree with Rosaliene comment, do what we can, make the most of each day. I currently volunteer at a homeless shelter for kids to young adults, they age out at 24. Some of them are pregnant or have small children, it’s overwhelming for everyone involved, but ignoring them is unacceptable to those of us who aren’t willing to look away.
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Melanie, I somehow didn’t see your comment until now, and I thank you for sharing your story. Wow. You experienced a bit of a rollercoaster around becoming parents and I appreciate all you’ve shared here. Thank you for being there as a volunteer at your son’s school and being there for the people in the shelter, which I know is particularly fraught with hardship and difficult emotions. I’m glad your family (eventually) came together and that you have each other.
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