Why am I a part of EarthCorps?

Poem written by Matthew McWitz, EarthCorps corps member, 2019 I joined EarthCorps because I heard the cry of the earth. I knew I had to throw my lot in for what it's worth. I don't presume to have the power to save us all. But those that can hear have an obligation; to contribute An offering, however small. I am often afraid...Afraid that it’s too little, too late. But believing we can do nothing Guarantees a tragic fate. And so here I am. Working away. Doing my part. A little each day. We sometimes joke. Saving the earth, one fern at a time. In a sense it's poetic. For isn't that how the earth was made? One Fern At A Time? I joined EarthCorps because of the suffering of the world literally kept me up at night. And I came to believe that the best way to help Was to help the mother that made us. Dear Lord, it's going to be a fight. Sometimes I am still afraid. But now I can sleep. Knowing each day I did what little I could The price for good rest is never too steep. I am part of EarthCorps because the problem at hand cannot be tackled alone. To comfortably assume such a task would require a heart made of stone. I am a part of EarthCorps because the next right thing to do can be so hard to find. And when working for something greater than yourself you can sometimes feel blind. I am a part of EarthCorps because I too am guilty. Guilty of..whatever it is that got us here. I am driven by a  sandwich of love and guilt Bookended by fear. I am a part of EarthCorps because I don't want to die Environmental service is an act of self-preservation Why should I lie? I am a part of EarthCorps because I am grateful. So grateful to be alive, I want all living beings today and forevermore To also flourish and thrive. I am a part of EarthCorps because every time I see a deer amongst the trees I feel like I am a part of all things Birds, bears, and bees.