Dear adventurer,

I’m writing this letter in Chicago, Illinois on November 7th, 2016, one of the warmest November days I’ve ever experienced. Weather patterns and temperatures have probably gotten more intense for you, but I hope that through it all you’ve been safe and comfortable despite the difficulties. Climate change is something that’s been on my mind for a while now – a few years ago, I got interested in environmental science, and have since declared a major in environmental studies. I’ve been vegetarian for two months and don’t plan on stopping, and have had countless conversations about the importance of sustainable practices. Days upon days have been spent outdoors and in nature. All of this is due to the appreciation, respect, and awe I have for our planet and its natural wonder, in all of its capability and beauty. I hope you feel the same way. Nowadays it seems like there aren’t many people who care enough to drive the communal change we need to have a big enough impact, but I’m optimistic that they’ll come to their senses one way or another. I guess you know if they did. Personally, I’m working on reducing my ecological footprint by any means possible and will continue to do so over the next five years. So far the biggest lifestyle change is the lack of meat eating – hopefully bigger ones are to come, for me and others. It is my hope that the world will be able to come together over this issue, and that this letter reaches you as the world finds success together. We’ll see.

All the best,
Alex