Thay has taught us that as we relate to the climate crisis, we must look deeply into our own true nature to have enough clarity to take care of our precious planet.
"Fear, separation, hate and anger come from the wrong view that you and the earth are two separate entities, that the Earth is only the environment. You are in the centre and you want to do something for the Earth in order for you to survive. That is a dualistic way of seeing.
So to breathe in and be aware of your body and look deeply into it and realize you are the Earth and your consciousness is also the consciousness of the earth. Not to cut the tree not to pollute the water: that is not enough." (2011 Interview with Thich Nhat Hanh)
Knowing that we are not separate from our planet, this month the Earth Holder Community, an Earth justice initiative practicing in the tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh, has offered two mindful steps for you and your Sangha to care for yourselves, fellow beings and future generations:
Step 1: Join the Student Global Climate Strike. On September 20th, please stop your day and join with the wise voices of our courageous children, to protect their future and that of tomorrow’s children of all species. While some of us cannot afford to walk off our jobs for a day, we encourage those of us who can to join the effort and mindfully speak and act in ways that build understanding and nourish our precious planet. Be sure to take lots of photos as you support the student strike and share your images on social media using #EHC4Climate Strike and #EarthHolders4ClimateStrike!
Step 2: Participate in the week of climate actions following Sep 20th. Some ideas for participation are:
- Walking in peaceful solidarity with students and others in your community who aspire for a future to be possible
Providing deep listening opportunities – imagine sitting on a bench or a chair with a sign saying, “Concerned about Mother Earth? Fellow citizen willing to listen.”
Planting trees
Hosting a plant-based Sangha pot luck
Writing love letters to news editors and policy makers, sharing what is in your heart
Learning about your local climate reality, its risks and your local leaders' actions
Insulating your home and swapping out incandescent for LED light bulbs
More climate action ideas, downloadable graphics, and other resources to help you amplify your message of peace are available on the Earth Holder Website.
