Dorenne Hansen’s family has farmed in southern Minnesota for more than 100 years. She helps lead the “no wind turbines” movement. Ms. Hansen says she has had more neighbors in her living room in the last six months than in all the years she has lived in the area. Why are they there? They want to talk about wind turbines! For people living in turbine country, the wind energy debate isn’t just about what’s good for the Earth. It’s about loving their neighbors—the people who literally live next door.

And that hasn’t been easy. In Lincoln County, South Dakota, people wanted to add 150 new turbines. Others urged officials to block the construction. Officials listened, and the turbines were never built. People there who were once friends but disagreed about the turbines are still too angry to speak with each other.

People in Maine have turbine troubles too. They worry that only city folks like the idea of turbines. “It’s easy for you to want wind energy,” they think. “You don’t have to have a turbine right next to your house!”

Wind farming may have global advantages. But that benefit comes with some local disadvantages. People living on or near wind farms have a lot to consider: How can I love my neighbors? How can I take care of my family, my region, and God's world? Not surprisingly, people have a hard time agreeing on such complicated questions.

We know God wants us to live at peace with all people as much as we can. (Romans 12:18) But when we talk about looking out for others and loving neighbors, it is okay to think of our own property, family, values, and beliefs as very important priorities. That might sound selfish. But it’s actually helpful. Individual people say, “My family flourishes best when things work this way.” When many of those voices are heard, decisions can be made for the common good.