This view from atop the hills of Oberstaufenbach in Rheinland-Pfalz is one that always makes my soul feel at peace. Germany's passionate commitment to the environment is a daily aspect of village life, one that appeals to the historian in me as someone who cares deeply about preservation and accountability. Seeing the windmills blow in all seasons and weather affords the community a sense of accomplishment that they are actively using sustainable energy. The windmills are beautiful structures, guardians of the villages quaintly tucked into the folds of the valleys, and stand as testaments to sensible energy policies.