Tapping a Domino

We usually think of the image of a long line of dominos as something that if tapped will fall down one, by one, by one. The momentum and force of each one proceeding, affects the fate of the other. They become connected. This phenomenon can be compared to any aspect of our lives; our health, our economy, our politics, our ecosystem. …essentially our entire world.

One tap of a domino, and everything changes.

What if the momentum of the dominos where reversed, like hitting rewind on ‘TiVo’? In this modern age why not consider this concept of a positive domino effect? Do we have the tools to do it?  For example some theorize that if .3% of the Sahara desert were covered with solar collectors we could technically provide energy for all of Europe. As long as ‘the sun is shining’, this would change the world as we know it.

I came across a small but notable example of a natural positive-domino effect in our own Trumbull backyard. While photographing one of my favorite spots in Twin Brooks Park, the Trumbull Park Superintendent stopped and told me the history of the lily pond. The lily pond which is now a thriving mini-ecosystem teaming with plants and wildlife, wasn’t always what it is today.

The Twin Brook Lily pond all started with one single water lily, which was released into the pond.  The action of one person releasing one plant, set a natural domino effect into motion.

In moderation these water lily plants can greatly benefit their habitats, keeping the water cool, and by providing shelter for a ponds wildlife. They also produce natural oxygen for wildlife and beneficial bacteria to thrive. Native American Indians used different parts of the plant for medicinal purposes, such as digestive issues, cool compresses, and mouth rinse.

One tap of a domino, and everything changes.
It only takes one action, by one person, to change the world.

For good, or bad,
we all have that power to ‘tap a domino’.