The Earth’s equilibrium has been upset. What would it take for the human family to restore the balance of nature that has sustained human civilization for 10,000 years?
Some say we can use technologies available today to stop emitting carbon pollution and sequester excess CO2. Others say it would take a miracle.
I like to think that we are living in a time of miracles, scientific and spiritual, where all things are possible. And I want our children to believe that. So I have a story to tell.
Just for a moment, let your imagination take you away from this turbulent time of social, political and environmental discord to the year 2030, just eight years from now. Imagine the celebration when the people of the world achieve the global goals agreed upon in 2015 by the United Nations.
The goals include taking care of the environment, improving people’s health and well-being, and making sure everyone is treated fairly. Imagine the human family on a road to healing and wellness. Children’s songs and games highlight a joyful celebration of life on Earth, our home.
Now imagine it’s the year 2050. The human family lives in harmony with the natural world. The climate crisis has been averted. We are one human family and one Earth community with a common, glorious destiny, as foretold by prophets and seers through the centuries.
The grandchildren of that day will want to know about the spiritual transformation that took place in the first half of the 21st century. They will learn how young people called for urgent climate action — because their future depended on it.
Now imagine yourself on Earth Day in the year 2023, just a few months from now. In Alachua and surrounding counties, individuals, organizations and institutions share stories of what they are doing for the betterment of the world. They announce activities to support the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.
People of faith and goodwill are building community in a changing climate, responding to the climate emergency. Throughout the year, children invite people of all ages to cooperate, collaborate and co-create solutions for a livable planet. Together they inspire peace on and with the Earth.
Of course, this vision is only in our imaginations. What would it take to make it a reality? What if we pool the human, material, and spiritual resources available right here in Alachua and surrounding counties, in November 2022?
Maybe, just maybe, we could contribute to a world that works for all living things — that’s 100% of humanity, and the community of life on Earth, our home.
Sue Blythe
Gainesville, FL
Restoring the Earth: Imagine coming together to avert the climate crisis
Gainesville Sun, November 6, 2022