Happy Earth Day! On April 22 every year, Earth Day is celebrated to promote the awareness and appreciation of our Mother Earth.

  When many people think of Earth day, they think of recycling. There is, in fact, much more to this celebration. Turning of the TV, computer, and video games is a great way to start. Even better, don’t leave running water on while brushing your teeth, and keep that toilet flushing to a minimum. Also, getting up and going outside would probably be a great idea for many people these days. Some projects could include going to the park, playing activities, recycling neighborhood plastics and glass, or planting in your backyard.

  As they’re doing these activities, it doesn’t take long for people to realize that not only are they helping the environment, but it helps them, too. For one week, a sacrifice to give up the “wants” and “needs” of the typical teenager (MySpace, Facebook, YouTube, 4chan, etc.), may be difficult, but it may be beneficial in the long run. Wouldn’t it be great to see your children’s children see the world as it is now, years from now?

  Earth Day may not be much of a big deal to anyone, but as I saw more and more commercials on TV, the Google updated image on the home page, Yahoo’s home page, and other reminders, I also started to learn more about this subject, especially from school. Conversations that I overheard led me to explore the internet and research this topic just a bit more. Hearing those conversations led me to believe that maybe if people at school are interested, I should be, too.

  I guess now, since we finally understand the reality of our environment and how bad it is with the pollution and everything, “going green” is catching on. Even TV shows, specifically on Disney Channel, have made an impact on Earth Day by showing episodes having to do with saving our planet.

  Changing the world only takes one person, and all you need to do to make a difference in our planet’s environment is to encourage other people to help you. Celebrate Earth Day and make a difference. It won’t hurt if you try, but it will if you don’t.