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Case Western Reserve University's independent student news source

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[2nd place] One Earth, infinite memories: The urgency of preservation

In the vast expanse of the universe, amid countless stars and galaxies, lies Earth. Not just a mere planet, but a living testament to the miracles of nature, a crucible of life and a sanctuary of unimaginable diversity. We stand on a spinning globe that has cradled civilizations, witnessed millennia and offered sustenance and shelter to billions. Yet, as its stewards, we find ourselves questioning: “Why is it worth conserving?”

Ponder for a brief instant the symphony of existence that has blossomed on this world. From the melodious whispers of the forests, the rhythm of waves crashing on shores, to the symphony of city life—every note, every sound, tells a story of coexistence. The azure oceans that cover three-quarters of its surface are not just expanses of water but are the very cradle of life. Within their depths, exist creatures that boggle the mind—bioluminescent beings, colossal cetaceans and corals that dance with color. And on the land, from the tiniest insect to the majestic elephant, every being plays a part in the grand tapestry of life.

This Earth has been a silent witness to our milestones—our first steps, our joys and sorrows, our tales of love and loss. It has seen us build monumental structures and craft tales that span generations. Our histories, cultures and civilizations have been shaped by its landscapes. The mountains have fortified us, the deserts have tested our endurance, the forests have taught us harmony and the rivers have nurtured our souls. These are not just physical entities but a part of our collective psyche, our shared heritage.

Yet, what truly makes Earth incomparable and worth conserving is not just its physical beauty or the life it supports, but the emotions and connections it evokes. The smell of the first raindrop hitting the parched ground, the feeling of grass under our bare feet, the sound of leaves rustling in the wind or the sight of a setting sun painting the sky in hues of gold and crimson—these are not just sensory experiences but threads that connect our very being to this planet. They remind us of our childhood, of places we’ve been, people we’ve met and memories we’ve made.

But Earth is not just a reservoir of our past; it is the hope for our future. Every child that is born inherits this planet as their home, a place to dream, explore and find their place in the grand scheme of things. It is a source of inspiration for poets, artists, scientists and dreamers. It challenges us to be better, to think bigger, to act with foresight.

Tragically, in our quest for progress, we’ve often forgotten the cost at which it comes. We’ve been reckless, often taking more than giving back, pushing our only home to the brink. But therein lies the answer to our pressing question. Earth is worth conserving because it is a reflection of us—of our humanity, our aspirations, our flaws and our potential. To conserve Earth is to value life in all its forms, to respect the past, cherish the present and secure a future.

In the heart of it all, we only have one Earth, not as an inheritance from our ancestors but as a loan from our children. We have been entrusted with its care, and it is our solemn duty to hand it over better than we found it. Let’s not just conserve it because it’s the only one we have, but because it embodies love, life, memories, hopes and dreams. After all, Earth is not just a planet; it’s home.

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