“Who could oppose except for those with thumbs?” He was a strange man, one who talked cryptically in rhymes and riddles. But he cared. He truly cared, and he knew how to persuade… well, some people. Very important qualities for an activist.

“This project could preserve so much biodiversity. So much life.

What do we mean when we say life? Life is opening your eyes for the first time and seeing the true beauty of the world. You all haven’t yet been born. Save yourself by saving the estuary, and this beauty shall reveal itself to you,” he continued, more straight-forward this time.

The panel of hoity-toity important people nodded along politely, only half-paying attention. They probably had heard a similar speech millions of times and hadn’t strayed from their plans, it was unlikely they would now.

“Thank you for your time, Mr. Bailey,” one of the board members interjected. “We will… consider your proposals.”

He was desperate now. “I understand the want to be quickly decisive and strong-minded on such subjects regarding your projects, however I implore you to think. I will leave you with this:

If your path is careless and irresponsible, your children’s children might never know what nature is beyond what is on a screen. They will never hear a bird call or roll down a grassy knoll. They won’t get the chance to climb a tree. They won’t be able to go outside and just _breathe. _Can you imagine that, Ms. Levithy? Can you imagine being cooped up inside, under cold, white lighting for your whole life because your grandparents sentenced you to this prison? It’s not too late to stop the project. It’s not too late to save the estuary. It’s not too late to hear the laughter of frolicking children in the fields as you grow old. Don’t make it be too late. It’s your choice. Will you regret which way you lean?”

The mood in the room grew solemn. It seemed he had gotten through to them.

“Thank you for your consideration. That will be all.” He collected his things and turned to go, his nicest shoes, weathered and worn, clicking on the linoleum as he shuffled towards the door.