Finding my place on this fragile planet
The CO2 levels continue to rise, global temperatures increase each year and this planet becomes more fragile.
There are more droughts and wildfires around the world, people are fighting over water and this planet becomes more fragile.
Fewer birds in the sky, fewer frogs on the ground and this planet becomes more fragile.
More ice is melting at both poles, sea levels are rising and this planet becomes more fragile.
Deforestation spreads farther, pandemics are more widespread and this planet becomes more fragile.
Extreme weather events that used to happen every 100 years now take place every few years and this planet becomes more fragile.
Climate change impacts the more vulnerable most often, public health is threatened, environmental injustice is glaringly evident, economic disparity grows and this planet becomes more fragile.
Listening to the climate news each day becomes more challenging. Feeling overwhelmed, anxious and depressed. Wondering and questioning how I can respond, how I should live on this fragile planet. Trying to find my place while being surrounded by more fear, uncertainty and frustration.
Finding my place is not about a destination or location. Not about moving or relocating. Not about pulling up stakes or planting myself somewhere else.
Finding my place is not about waiting for others to change. Not always pointing the finger at and blaming whomever. Not judging and criticizing without taking responsibility for my part, for my actions.
Finding my place is being present, living in the present moment. Asking how I can share a more respectful and reciprocal life. Exploring what I control and what influence that I may have in my community and in my city.
I have chosen to believe that I belong to the world instead of the world belonging to me. I have chosen to believe that it's more important and meaningful to focus on who I am and not what I have. I have chosen to believe that it's healthier for me to build relationships with others and nature than to be preoccupied with objectifying and owning everything.
I am finding my place on this fragile planet by leading a more sustainable life by living smaller, slower and simpler. I am finding my place on this fragile planet by walking and spending more time outside. I am finding my place on this fragile planet by becoming more aware and appreciative of other living beings.
The author of this article, Tone Lanzillo, American writer and journalist, is a member of the Loaves and Fishes Community in Duluth, a live-in volunteer at the Dorothy Day House, an active part of the Duluth/365 initiative, and is a key part of our team here at The Human Exploring Society.