Dear South Jersey Awakened Community,

To welcome in the new decade, I’d like to offer some sentiments from our national editor:

We begin this year with Wise Words from legendary journalist Bill Moyers, who is leading the charge for a new generation to make a critical difference in our world where it counts: climate change. Natural Awakeningshas accepted his challenge to join a global media project called Covering Climate Now to spread awareness of the urgency of this issue. Throughout this year, we’ll be sharing with our readers the many aspects of how we eat and how we live impact the planet—and how each of us can shrink our own climate change footprint.

Meantime, schools across the country and around the world are growing the next generation of environmentalists with innovative hands-on courses that teach students about climate change, the importance of renewable energy, sustainable food production, water quality/quantity and other conservation issues. Writer Yvette Hammett explores this trend in “Raising Environmentalists:Teachers Prep Kids for the Future.”

Our focus on planetary health will complement our ongoing commitment to leave no stone unturned in all facets of personal health. This month, the eternal quest for the fountain of youth leads us to examine the factors that contribute not only to living long, but living well. Writer Melinda Hemmelgarn’s January feature looks at the role of genes, environment and lifestyle factors; she offers age-defying strategies—from diet, exercise and sleep, to protecting our telomeres and adjusting our attitudes.

As for me, I wish everyone, locally and globally, an abundant, prosperous and peaceful new decade.

 In appreciation and gratitude,

Michelle