7 Discussion

Ralph Waldo Emerson once asked what we would do if the stars only came out once every thousand years? No one would sleep that night, of course. We would be ecstatic, delirious, made rapturous by the glory of God. Instead the stars come out every night, and we watch television.

Paul Hawken (1946 – ) Environmentalist, Entrepreneur, Journalist, and Author Ralph Waldo Emerson (May 25, 1803 – April 27, 1882) American Poet

Respond to these three questions:

1. What do you think about the comment by Emerson as told by Hawken? What we would do if the stars only came out once every thousand years? No one would sleep that night, of course. We would be ecstatic, delirious, made rapturous by the glory of God.
2. Consider Emerson’s quote: What we would do if the stars only came out once every thousand years? No one would sleep that night, of course. We would be ecstatic, delirious, made rapturous by the glory of God. What do you believe Emerson is really trying to say to us?
3. Consider Hawken’s comments in regard to Emerson’s quote: Instead the stars come out every night and we watch television. Is this true for most people? What do you believe Hawken is trying to say to us?

Post your response on the Discussion Board, then read and reply to at least two classmates’ posts that differ from your belief. State the points with which you differ, as well as your reasons.