Tuesday, October 6, 2009

Sign of the Times


At first, I liked the message along the river walk on the edge of the Deschutes River in Bend, Oregon, alerting the public of an ecologically sensitive area. Then I became anxious by the strong foreboding instruction at the bottom of the sign. The expression "No Trespassing" felt out of keeping and more suited for a construction site with a high chain link fence and a junkyard dog nearby. It might have as easily said, "Please, stay on the walkway" and accomplished the same result and been in keeping with "feel-good" community-spirited green philosophy.
Then again maybe a maintenance supervisor thought toughness was required to prevent yahoos from "tearing it up"with dirt bikes. Whatever its genesis, this sign reminds me of the adage "that you get more from honey than from vinegar" and, whenever possible, to promote an attitude of vigilant kindness.

4 comments:

B SQUARED said...

I agree with your comments in so far as thoughtful, caring people are concerned. Unfortunately, I think the destruction is caused by those who don't care and don't think. Not sure what the best course of action is.

tapirgal said...

I think Lee and B both said it well. Maybe a "Please stay on the path, violators will be eaten by bears" would help.

Lowell said...

In Florida, the signs say "No trespassing. We will shoot you!"

I was doing fine, Lee, until I saw "Riparian." I know from nothing what is "riparian." I know rip-roaring as I've been involved in that a couple of times...

But, not to worry, I shall not violate the fragile riparian area.

Hope you're having a great day!

laurelgrace00 said...

I agree.