“I held a moment in my hand, brilliant as a star, fragile as a flower, a tiny sliver of one hour. I dripped it carelessly, Ah! I didn’t know, I held opportunity.” Hazel Lee
Today the world is coming together to help our planet by doing one simple thing… turning the lights off for one hour at 8:30pm. This day 
symbolizes that by working together with a common goal, we can each make a positive impact on our future.
Earth Hour was launched in Sydney, Australia, in 2007. I remember seeing pictures on the news of the city skyline going dark and was so impressed and inspired.
The founders of this effort had a global vision and after proving it could be done, have each year invited more cities around the world to participate. “Since its inception, Earth Hour’s non-partisan approach has captured the world’s imagination and became a global phenomenon.” Last year, nearly one billion people, 4,100 cities in 87 countries on seven continents participated. In the United Sates, I’m proud to share that 80 million Americans and 318 cities pledged to flip the switch. Just imagine iconic landmarks around the world going dark… the Las Vegas strip, the Empire State Building and Golden State Bridge, the Eiffel Tower in Paris, Big Ben and Houses of Parliament in London and St Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City to name just of few. Takes your breath away, doesn’t it?! Watch the official Earth Hour video: http://www.youtube.com/earthhour2009
Victoria Harbour during Earth Hour 2010
The first time I signed up and pledged to turn the lights off was the second year of this movement. I loved the concept and it gave me a lovely excuse to bring together friends for a lovely candlelight dinner. My husband, George, and I put tape on all the light switches to remind us not to use them because it is such an automatic action and we tied a bow around the handles of our refrigerator preventing us from opening it. We lit over 70 eco-friendly candles around our home and garden, prepared a green themed dinner and found such joy in sitting at our table with good friends, drinking wine and sharing stories in the glow of the soft light. Our music that evening was conversation and laughter. Our reward was knowing that we were part of something very special and with a simple action, we were making a difference.
Tonight, at 8:30pm, I will be on stage performing in a play, The Diviners, at The Chandler Studio Theatre, and will not be able to officially participate as the lights will need to remain on so the audience can see the show! However, at the welcome speech our producer will announce that the theatre marquee will be turned off and he will invite them to join the effort by considering spending a candle-lit hour at home after the theatre. At our home, George has pledged to turn off all our lights and will practice his piano for an hour by candlelight ala Liberace!
What will you do?
Here is some inspiration:
The Inspiration Room – a global effort designed to influence, affect and involve creative communities in the development of a world standard for inspiration.
Earth Hour Lights Off Video – just do it!
Earth Hour Global’s Photostream – stunning images!
Earth Hour Change.org/Take Action Video – love this video!
Change.org raises awareness about important causes and empowers people to take action.
Earth HourVideo from Brazil – you don’t have to speak the language to understand the message.
HOW TO: Support Earth Hour With Social Media – spread the word to your network!
Twitter – get ongoing updates on this inspiring day on our planet.
"Do not disturb" signs created for placement on the street lamps as a part of Earth Hour ads campaign in Ukraine
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