A Leaf on a Quest is a search, a search for the truth which will make it possible for this planet we live on and the civilization of which we are a part to survive into the next Millennium and more, because with what is happening at present is allowed to continue the future does not look too promising. We all have a part to play, the responsibility which comes with our existence. Yes, we can apportion blame to those we believe are responsible for the pollution of our oceans and our atmosphere. We can point to those responsible for our burden of debt, those who misgovern the nations we live in, we can even identify those who are causing the rapid decline in morality and the rocketing crime rate, but are you prepared to acknowledge that to some degree, you and I, everyone who forms some part of this civilization is also responsible. That amalgamation of people, technology and services which we have named civilization is at present, the greatest threat to humanity and all life on Earth that has ever existed. Does it need to be so? No! It is because we permit it to be so, either through avarice, arrogance, or apathy. There are consequences for actions we initiate, which cause ripples, which become waves eventually forming the tsunami which will be our Armageddon. In the book there is a reference to an old Cree Indian proverb. "We do not inherit the Earth from our ancestors; we borrow it from our children." When we look at what is being done to our planet and our environment, there must be an element of doubt is that concept is a consideration. We are tenants on Earth's surface, and as such we have the responsibility to leave this planet which is the source and sustenance of our lives, in the same if not an improved state, as a sign of our having been here. Everywhere, people are so concerned for their life after death, their immortal soul. Have they not realized yet, it is life which is eternal, not individuals, and this means that you have an obligation to all those who will follow you. Living your life now as a commitment to the future, is the greatest gift your existence can provide.
About the Author: Alastair Batchelor, born Dunedin, New Zealand 1941, attended North East Valley School, Otago Boy's High School, King's High School and Otago University. His main interest has always been music, starting piano lesson at five years and later singing. He became a solo performer in opera and much later a musical director. In 2004 Alastair moved to Thailand with his wife Pranee, where he taught English as a second language for six years. Now retired, he spends most of his time writing, (four books published in 2013) playing the odd game of golf and riding a motorcycle through the countryside, which provides the opportunity to make videos and take photos.