Yesterday, March 29, I participated in Earth Hour, which means I turned off the lights in my home from 8-9 pm. According to the sponsoring organization’s website, this global event was intended “to make a statement, to help find new ways to reduce [our] impact on the environment, and to start a movement that ends with a solution to the common challenge we all face.” First I lighted all the candles I own but I could barely see, so I sat in the semi-darkness listening on my iPod to a lecture on the Industrial Revolution in England. Then with about 10 minutes to go, I washed some dishes, which can be done in total darkness. Next, because I had to prepare for teaching a class, I decided to review my course materials by flashlight. I blew out the candles and got into bed. By 9:10 I was so tired that I put the books aside and fell asleep.