Thursday, April 21, 2016

The Price of So-Called Progress

I don't care two hoots about civilization.  I want to wander in the wild.
Jane Goodall
One definition of progress is "a gradual betterment", but sadly, this does not seem to be the case when it comes to construction.
Last year, I was disappointed that one of the walking paths near us had been redesigned -- the real grass was gone and fake turf put in its place.  Bright stripes were painted on the path which have now been faded by the sun.
The turf could not withstand the heat.  It was such an eyesore and a hazard that it was just finally completely removed and disposed of.  And now, to make matters worse, construction has begun on a road project in this same area to supposedly relieve traffic congestion.  A project that is going to take at least a couple of years to complete.
Last Friday when my husband and I went out for a morning walk, I was shocked to find that only three trees around a bus stop have been left standing along the walking path.  Trees that helped to block noise and air pollution from the main road, provided shelter for birds and also improved the scenery while walking have all been cut down.
Above is what it used to look like.
And now this is the barren view.
When I walked a couple of days ago, I was further shocked and disappointed to find that palm trees have been uprooted and tossed to the side.
More victims of progress.
From what I can tell by the placement of these black and yellow barriers, the "new and improved" roadway is going to encroach on the area surrounding the walking path.
I try to have a positive outlook and focus on the good but when things like this happen, I really just question man's perspective on progress. 

17 comments:

Laurie said...

When progress takes away the beauty we enjoy every day....not only the beauty, but the things that are needed....it's just Sad!

Betsy said...

Oh Tammy, that would be enough to make me cry. Those beautiful palm trees. Your before and after photos are disturbing at best. I think people need some green space around us in order to breathe freely. I am so sorry.
Blessings always,
Betsy

Mereknits said...

I question mans perspective a lot. I hate for tress to be removed. It is just such a senseless act, like they don't matter at all. I think I would be very depressed seeing all of that destruction.
Hang in there,
Meredith

Linda said...

I agree and am disgusted by similar things. Then again, I've never been much a fan of people to begin with. I have to adjust my attitude often because truly - I know that I could be happy living in a mountain hut far away from humanity.

linda said...

What a shame Tammy that's so sad. xx

Gracie Saylor said...

That last quote is perfect! Thank you for caring, Tammy, and for treasuring the beauty around you. Your positive view makes a difference for good! xx

Pradeepa said...

Sad. Last year when I visited my hometown I was shocked to see all the flowering trees on either side of the main road leading to my parents home gone. Hundreds of trees were cut down to broaden the road. During summer the road which once used to be so cool, calm and beautiful with the blooms is now congested with vehicles, hot and dusty. I hate progress!

Lisa said...

It breaks my heart to see this kind of "progress." : (

PKBrandon said...

Sad and sickening is all I can say.

Mary said...

Oh dear Tammy, what a terrible shame and all coming about under that word "progress". I am always so sad when trees are cut down - or fall down - because they have taken so long to grow into their majestic selves. How sad the world has become in many places due to mankind's errors. I too would love to go to a perfect place to spend my remaining years - but I believe it would have to be Antarctica to experience an unspoiled environment. Although too cold there of course during the Winter, I didn't mind the coolness of their Summer when there in January, and that pure air was amazing to breathe. Of course sadly not a tree in sight, but the penguins made up for it, haha!!!

Just stay safe and, like all of us, count your blessings which I'm sure are many.
With love, Mary -


Teresa Kasner said...

Goodness sakes. Who is in charge of that debacle? You should call city hall and complain. Those palm trees are worth hundreds of dollars.. so they are just wasting money, too. Don't they know that a desert needs trees and growing things to help cool the earth and give oxygen? Truly that is disturbing and very upsetting. Sorry that you have to deal with that. ((hugs)), Teresa :-)

Lorrie said...

Trees are such beautiful and helpful organisms for the earth. It always saddens me when one is taken down. Our city is trying to build up the tree canopy and plants trees everywhere they can. I'm sorry your beautiful palm trees have been uprooted and the view is certainly not what it was. Progress. What does it really mean? I hope you find another beautiful place to walk.

Julia @ Vintage with Laces said...

That is very annoying, Tammy. I totally understand your frustration. It's such a shame that all those wonderful trees are gone.

Diane said...

Sorry to be so outspoken but I hate progress!!1 All it means to me is that the newcomers who do it have no respect for the work that the others have done before. Diane

Quinn said...

I am so sorry, Tammy. That is heartbreaking, especially in an area where every tree and plant is so important to wildlife. Including the wild part of humans.

Tanya said...

Don't it always seem to go
That you don't know what you've got 'til it's gone
They paved paradise
And put up a parking lot

Amy at love made my home said...

It is so sad isn't it. I hope they will put back some trees when they are finished. xx

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