There are lots of discussions and press coverage these days about “carbon footprints.” Conceptually, I know that the phrase refers to the measure of the impact that human activities have on the environment in terms of the amounts of greenhouse gases produced.

This is important, and I am glad society is embracing the concept that we can educate ourselves, and then work to bring about change in a big way. We are starting to understand that it requires the collective efforts of everyone to deal with such massive problems.

On a philosophical note, I am reminded of something my good friend Ellen Kochansky, fiber artist, wrote to me many years ago. “Leave good footprints,” she said. This sentiment conjures up multiple images. That of many steps taken with thoughtfulness and caring. Individual paths that reflect a reverent devotion to life in all of its forms.

Artists understood the concept of carbon footprint long before it became the darling phrase of the moment. Let’s look to them to teach us how we can enlarge and expand upon an idea that holds such promise.