In my attempt to get over this cold that has been kicking my ass this past week, I decided to sit on the couch with some hot tea and movies. The last of which was Pick Axe. Its been a couple of years since I last watched this documentary about the Cascadian Free State. I don’t know how its possible to watch without crying. Hell, even one of the arresting Forest Service employees is brought to tears on camera just by talking about the resistance that happened in the remote forests of Oregon. Its a beautiful reminder, one that we need more of. A reminder that persistance, conviction, dedication, and creativity can produce great things, the impossible even.

For those unfamiliar with Earth First! and the direct action enironmental movement, its a good look into the world of those deemed “domestic terrorists” by the US government. Don’t get me wrong, if you’ve read my letters to Earth First! and the Earth First! Journal you’ll know that I have no misconceptions regarding the imperfections of the movement. The movement is still plagued with the issues of the society in which is operating. Issues of privilege and power still go largely unchecked or minimally so. But the work is no less importatnt.

I miss being in the forest.