We cannot whimper or grovel while we get to work on our war strategy against climate change.

It reflects the kind of attitudes that allowed oppressive systems to persist for centuries. I’m as anti-fascist as the next person, but I’m worried that adopting a tribalist mentality will only nurture fascism and shield the privileged from accountability. Giving in to cynicism and analysis paralysis will do little to resolve the ever-worsening environmental catastrophe, and cedes the moral high ground to those prizing individual gain over the greater good.

Instead of wasting energy on Schadenfreude, I believe it’s more productive for us to come together as a species, set aside our differences, and reorganize our social and economic structures for the common benefit. Although it might sound demanding, anyone can help, and we can go a long way just by working together. Small daily choices will aggregate into powerful movements, but only if enough of us opt for sustainability over excess, demand accountability from corporations and governments, and upend the industrial capitalist machine that created this crisis.

The progress may seem glacial, intermittent, or stagnant. But this should not be rationale to give up! Besides, let’s celebrate the positives, and look towards how far we’ve come - more people than ever, especially those most directly impacted by climate change, such as Gen Alpha and/or the Global South - are recognizing the danger we’re headed for, and momentum for a just transition is building. Bottom line: the battle isn’t hopeless, but if we make it hopeless, it will. Stay strong, warrior.