Poems and Thoughts    by Frank Maurer

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To Be or Not to Be, That is the (Original) Question; To Destroy or Not to Destroy, That is the (Present) Question. A city wishes to extend its borders once again. To do this, many challenges must be met. If flood control channels are constructed incorrectly, This will cause numerous biological disasters. Plans must be followed which are ethical and correct. Once this project is completed, it must demonstrate wise planning. Of course, a new development must consider increased traffic. An important biological consideration is vernal pools-- Special places where flora and fauna have coexisted for centuries, And a unique creature which has survived in this environment. The Vernal Pool Tadpole Shrimp is well-adapted for these habitats. Their morphology with body and tails are so sweet to behold. To plow them under, they would have no other chance. Do we need to build in completely inappropriate locations? Is there a way to compromise--human and shrimp? They are at our mercy. We alone will make the difference. Devote some time to aiding another creature. They lived here long before we entered the world stage. It is only right that we consider others living with us. Frank Maurer 8 March 2026 1815 Hours.