The present moment matters, but we can also learn from history. In 1787, facing immense challenges, our founding fathers created the U.S. Constitution and completed it with pride and patriotism. Our nation has since ebbed and flowed in living up to its promise in the preamble, “in order to form a more perfect union.”  That promise did not end with the founding fathers. It is carried forward by each generation of leaders entrusted to uphold it as they take the oath of office, swearing to the Constitution of the United States and the people it serves — not to the lobbyist, a campaign contributor, a political party or a private contractor employed by the government or any high office holder. Lincoln’s “Gettysburg Address” still echoes: “This nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom — and that, government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.” That vision depends on leaders who not only take the oath, but live by it. Today that responsibility must be to the environment that sustains us. More than two decades ago, Al Gore warned America about global warming and catastrophic weather. If he had been elected, he may not have stopped climate change but he would have prepared our nation for what we now face.  Here in Utah we see the consequences: the shrinking of the Great Salt Lake, worsening air quality, destructive wildfires, and harmful algal blooms. Clean air and water are not political preferences — they are necessities, for our health now and generations to come. The principles of justice in our Constitution, “the fairness in the way people are treated,” should guide Congress in every bill they propose, every action they take and in every vote. Ignoring overwhelming scientific evidence on climate change is inconsistent with any reasonable standard of climate justice. Weakening environmental protections as risks grow fails to meet a basic obligation to protect public health and future generations. The same applies to war. Entering conflict may be swift, resolving it rarely is. Polluting air and water is easy, but repairing the damage can take decades or may never be fully possible. We are still hopeful that our Constitution will endure and all those who have taken the oath will represent it properly. Many public servants act with integrity, guided by duty to people and our common home. We are hopeful that ethics, democracy and justice will prevail over any semblance to a political party.  A more perfect union is still not finished. It is an ongoing responsibility — to one another and the earth we share. Paul Kimball and Mary Closser Park City The post A more perfect union appeared first on Park Record. ...read more read less