Welcome to...THINKBUTTON IN ACTION
explore this page to learn about people, just like you, who put their "thinkbutton" to work in order to make our world a more healthy, peaceful and beautiful place to live

Environmental Awareness: Rachel Carson
mother of the environmental movement

Although humans have roamed the Earth for thousands of years the notion of protecting nature against mankind is a fairly new concept. One of the most significant contributors in environmental protection is Rachel Carson. Through her writings and work she has paved the way for a healthier world.

Born in Springdale, Pennsylvania in 1907 Carson lived a simple childhood with a mother that passed along a love of nature and living things. Although she initially studied English in college an influential biology teacher inspired her to pursue a degree in marine biology. Her studies began a lifelong love and commitment to the sea. While writing radio scripts for the Bureau of Fisheries Carson earned extra money by writing natural history articles for the Baltimore Sun. Her writing endeavors produced many significant books that made her a famous naturalist and science writer.

One of their most well-know and significant works, regarding man and his impact on nature, Silent Spring, earned the reputation of starting the environmental movement. In this work Carson introduced facts that industry and the careless use of pesticides were damaging the ecosystems and could ultimately cause severe illness in humans. Although the agriculture and chemical industries were harsh and critical towards Carson and her research the Science Advisory Committee eventually verified her findings.

Although gravely ill with cancer Carson fought until her death in 1964 to caution the world of the dangerous effects pesticides and chemicals have on nature. Many recognize her as the mother of the environmental movement. Even though her writings and research made significant progress in preserving nature and the environment, according to the Environmental Protection Agency, more chemicals and pesticides are being used than ever before. Humans must continue the fight she started.

Creative Expression: Mattie Stepanek
young poet

Through the centuries poetry has enlightened readers of the emotions, insights and trials each generation confronts. Mattie Stepanek was a poet of the first generation of the 21st century. He used his writing to inspire, inform and influence - all in the name of peace and hope; and,all before he was 13.

Born in 1990, in Maryland, Mattie suffered from a rare form of muscular dystrophy and dysautonomia. He relied on oxygen all the time as well as used a wheelchair to get around most places. However, Mattie's physical challenges never stopped him from reaching his goals and planning for the future.

He began writing at the age of three and his writings include thousands of poems, dozens of essays and even some illustrations. He had a national bestseller book of poems entitled Heartsongs plus two additional books of poetry. His writing has won many awards and inspired thousands people with his messages of peace through the acceptance of others and their beauty within. It comes as no surprise that Mattie wanted to be a peacemaker when he grew up.

Mattie is inspirational on many levels. One may learn a lot from him just by his ability to rise above the challenges his weakened health presented to him. His contribution as the Maryland State Goodwill Ambassador for the Muscular Dystrophy Association as well as a representative of Children's Hospice International has given hope to many sick children and their families. However, many draw the greatest strength from him through his insightful and compassionate writings. Mattie succumbed to his illness in 2004.

World peace is an endeavor many aspire to be a part of. Currently some countries struggle for a more peaceful existence within their boundaries as well as with other nations. Sometimes the hope for a more peaceful Earth seems unlikely. However, children are our future and the opportunity for peace rests in their hands. We must raise them to be more tolerant, understanding and compassionate adults. One man who has contributed greatly to children and visions of peace is John Wallach.

Wallach was born in New York City in 1943 to parents who had survived the Holocaust. He grew up listening to jazz on the radio and entered college with dreams of becoming an actor. However, his interests turned to writing which resulted in an illustrious career in reporting. It was through his travels, as an overseas correspondent in the Middle East and the bombing of the World Trade Center in 1993, that lead Wallach to his most notable endeavor: world peace.

Wallach approached the challenge by establishing a summer camp for young people from nations across the world. He called his effort "Seeds of Peace". During their stay at the facility in Maine, the campers would learn to listen to each other and develop an understanding and empathy for the beliefs and struggles each have. They also would engage in typical summer camp activities like Ping-Pong and swimming. The campers leave the experience recognizing and accepting each other - much like all nations should do.

The conflict and pain Wallach reported while being a journalist in war-torn countries inspired him to look to young people for a future of nonviolence. Today the Seeds of Peace International Camp hosts 450 youngsters from every nation every summer. Wallach was actively involved until his death in 2002. Although his life was cut short the seeds he planted continue to grow with hope of world peace.