| Having come to the site, www.wallsarebad.com, you've probably already realized that we've taken a pretty strong position on the idea that for people to be happy and healthy, they've got to get outdoors. Who are we? Well, to start with, a coalition of 60-plus outdoor recreation organizations and agencies in town who want to promote southwestern Pennsylvania as a place to enjoy getting outside. But more than that, we're a bunch of individuals of all ages, from all walks of life, and at every fitness level, who believe that our entire community would benefit from a little fresh air. Whether that warm spring breeze is enjoyed on a hike, in a canoe or kayak, or on a bike ride through the city-we really don't care. We just want you to GET OUTSIDE. Because, simply put, (and in case you missed the name of the Web site) Walls Are Bad. And here's why... Walls are Limiting: Walls are made to keep people indoors and under false lighting, and that just isn't good for anyone. How will you know how far you can paddle a kayak, or how high you can fly a kite if you never get outdoors? Most people are full of potential, but let's face it-sitting in a cubicle doesn't exactly encourage you to test your limits, unless it's beating everyone else to the door at lunchtime. There's something amazing about the feeling of accomplishment you get when you've reached the top of a mountain, or pedaled that last mile. And it's not a feeling that any office chair or couch can give you. Wall are Put in Place to Keep You In-and Others Out: When was the last time that you went on a walk and spent quality time with your family? Or met someone new while taking your dog to the park? Walls tend to close us off from others, not only physically, but psychologically. When you open yourself up to the great outdoors, you open yourself up to making new friends and enlarging your social circle. Walls Are Hard to Tear Down: Whether it's a physical wall or a mental one, it's hard to change the mind of someone who's built a wall around him or herself. Maybe you're differently abled, or living in an urban area. That shouldn't limit you from enjoying the same outdoor activities as anyone else. Or maybe you believe the old, worn-out description of Pittsburgh as a steel town with no outdoor amenities to enjoy. The fact is, there's tons of fun stuff to do outside, and lots of people to do stuff with-just on the other side of the wall. Four Walls Make a Box: Some of the best ideas happen when people think outside of the box, so imagine what will happen if you remove the box completely. When you're outside, you can enjoy limitless freedom; you don't have to go any specific direction, because there are no walls getting in your way. This not only reinvigorates the mind, but the body. And that creates happier, healthier individuals, who in turn, create stronger communities. So you have a choice. Stay within the walls, or get outside. You already know what we think. |