Remember our relationship with our Mother Earth
Repenting, redeeming ourselves and re-planting seeds during lockdown
Have you heard of 'Spiritual Ecology' before?
I attended a 'Spiritual Ecology' workshop a few years ago and looked over my reflections. I found it ever so relevant in this period of history.
Emmanuel, our teacher for the workshop, was a a spiritual ecologist and a Sufi(pronounced Sue-phi) mystic. He defines it as:
āThe spiritual response to the ecological crisis in our world.ā
~
He elaborates that the 'spiritual' part broadly is about:
The interdependence & living unity of our ecosystem.
Everything is sacred & interconnected.
Our land is older, much wiser than us. We need to acknowledge, pay respect, feel obligated, be humble, be consciousā¦.
Observations/insights:
Emmanuel began the workshop with a story. I find that many speakers begin with formal credentials and quickly begin with the content. He was different.
The introduction then continued with a short period of silence - 'awarenessā of our being on the place we are touching our feet on with the surrounding nature. It was niceā¦
I also 'feltā the sincerity of his Indigenous 'Acknowledgement of Countryā statement. It was the first time that I listened to the words deeply:
"I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which we are meeting. I pay my respects to their Elders, past and present, and the Elders from other communities who may be here today."
Why is Spiritual Ecology relevant in the 21st century?
The teacher made us reflect on:
- What does it mean to be human?
- What does it mean to be in relationship with the Earth?
I felt reaffirmed with my convictions of our state of the world - materialism, capitalism, greed etc. Emmanuel was right in his use of the word 'forgotten.ā
We have forgotten how to be human. We have been distracted by modern societyās ways.
Spiritual Ecology is a frame to understand the root of the issuesā¦ it helps to create lasting change.
Let's break up Spiritual Ecology into some principles:
1. reverence
2. interconnectedness
3. compassion
4. steward
5. service
^ A brief summary of the principles above:
The land owns us.
Who are we? We are small if we think about the scale of Earth and people.
We need a space for connectionā¦ presenceā¦
We are 'stewards.ā Instead, our culture portrays the 'itās all about usā attitude towards others and the environment.
^ My observations/insights:
Emmanuel mentioned that 'spiritual ecologyā is not 'dogmaticā and different to 'religion.ā It is centred on 'valuesā that we can 'practice.ā
He claims that society has coined the word 'spiritualityā to mean different things which foster misunderstandings and different interpretations - āWeāve put these big words in boxes.ā
He emphasises on the simplicity of being human - simply by our values.
He reminds us:
āAll of us are leadersā¦ we can give service to allā¦ā
Emmanuel let us have an exclusive watch of his film 'Earth Rise.' After watching this, I felt 'lessā of me. I felt that the world, the natural environment, Earth and the universe is bigger than I could comprehend.
It was a bliss feeling.
~
The beauty of 'storytellingā:
Emmanuel showed us this film to portray some of those 'universal values.ā He believes that we are all part of an unfolding journey of different experiences and storiesā¦
Storytelling transcends wordsā¦ it is accessible to all. It is emotive.
~
Practices to cultivate relationship to the Earth:
Emmanuel noted that there are many different practices in our daily life that we often forget or take it for granted:
- Walking
- Breathing
- Gardening
- Cooking
- Cleaning
Doesnāt this make you reflect on our day-to-day tasks we do? Amazing!
My main take-aways:
- I discovered the 'notionā between 'meā and the natural environment(Earth) can be beautifully described as a 'relationship.ā I find this term changes the way I can 'liveā more 'spirituallyā - connecting back to the 'coreā of our values.
āWe need to find ways to say thanks to Earth and pay 'reverenceā to it.ā
- 'Spiritualityā is reciprocal - The aim is to not only make you 'feelā alive/better but we also need to 'serveā others and the Earth.
- 'Spiritualityā as simply being. Many instances during the day, I noted Emmanuel and the people using the word 'feelā and āconnection.ā
For example using and connecting our senses with the ground/Earth, using the collective 'weā instead of 'Iā¦.ā
Lastly, I think the 'worldviewā of Spiritual Ecology might be innate in all of us. If we can imagine our early ancestors on Earth, the relationship with them and the land was important. They most probably didnāt need to have a specific phrase or term to describe 'Spiritual Ecology.ā What does that mean for us? Have we really strayed away from our core nature and purpose?
Questions to reflect and sip over some tea with:
How can we all practice being with our Earth during this challenging time?
What does it mean to be a 'citizenā on Earth?
Can we have a relationship with the 'wholeā Earth?
About the Creator
š»š³ Journey with Juju š¦šŗ
I'm here for those who are looking for something more.
#LESSjunkmoreJUJU
~Currently documenting my post-lockdown life:
Part time Mental Health Worker / Part time Artist.
Let's make meaning together Millennials āš½
Keep reading
More stories from š»š³ Journey with Juju š¦šŗ and writers in Earth and other communities.
Severe Cold Grips the Country as Hunza Records ā21Ā°C: Pakistan Faces a Deep Winter Freeze
A powerful cold wave has swept across Pakistan, plunging temperatures to alarming lows and turning daily life into a test of endurance for millions. The northern region of Hunza has recorded a bone-chilling ā21Ā°C, marking one of the coldest temperatures of the season and drawing national attention to the intensity of this winter. As icy winds cut through valleys and plains alike, the country is experiencing a severe cold spell that is affecting health, travel, agriculture, and energy supplies. Hunza at the Center of the Freeze Hunza, known worldwide for its breathtaking landscapes and serene beauty, has transformed into a frozen world. At ā21Ā°C, rivers partially freeze, roads become slippery, and even routine activities turn risky. Residents of the valley, though accustomed to harsh winters, describe this cold as unusually intense. Water pipelines have frozen solid, livestock require special care, and heating resources are stretched to their limits. Despite the extreme conditions, life continues. Locals rely on traditional methods of insulation, wood-burning stoves, and community cooperation to survive the cold nights. However, the severity of the temperature has raised concerns about vulnerable groups, including the elderly, children, and those living in remote areas with limited access to fuel and medical facilities. Cold Wave Spreads Across Pakistan While Hunza sits at the epicenter of the cold, the effects are being felt nationwide. Gilgit-Baltistan and parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are experiencing sub-zero temperatures, while major cities like Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi are facing unusually cold mornings and dense fog. In the plains, nighttime temperatures have dropped sharply, catching many residents off guard. The Pakistan Meteorological Department has warned that the cold wave may persist, driven by continental air systems moving southward. These systems not only lower temperatures but also increase the risk of frost, fog, and icy conditions on highways, disrupting travel and trade. Impact on Daily Life and Health Severe cold brings serious health risks, particularly for those without adequate shelter or heating. Hospitals in colder regions report an increase in patients suffering from hypothermia, respiratory infections, and flu-like illnesses. Doctors advise people to stay warm, avoid unnecessary exposure to cold, and ensure proper ventilation when using indoor heaters to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. In urban areas, gas shortages and power outages have intensified the struggle. Many households face limited gas supply during peak morning and evening hours, forcing families to rely on electric heaters or alternative fuels. This increased demand places additional pressure on the national power grid, raising the risk of load shedding. Agriculture and Livelihoods Under Threat The cold wave poses a significant threat to agriculture, particularly winter crops and orchards. Frost can damage wheat fields, vegetables, and fruit trees, potentially impacting yields and farmersā incomes. In northern areas, livestock owners are working hard to protect animals from the cold, as freezing temperatures can lead to illness and even death among cattle and sheep. Tourism, a vital source of income for regions like Hunza, has also been affected. While some tourists are drawn by the snow-covered scenery, many trips have been canceled due to dangerous road conditions and travel advisories. Local businesses, already facing economic challenges, are feeling the strain of reduced visitor numbers. Government Response and Preparedness Authorities across Pakistan have issued cold weather alerts and advisories, urging citizens to take precautionary measures. Disaster management agencies are monitoring the situation, particularly in northern and mountainous regions where access can be cut off due to snow and ice. Emergency services have been placed on high alert, and local administrations are working to ensure the availability of fuel, food supplies, and medical assistance. However, experts stress that long-term planning is essential, as extreme weather events are becoming more frequent due to climate change. Climate Change and Extreme Winters Meteorologists and climate scientists point out that while Pakistan has always experienced cold winters, the increasing intensity and unpredictability of such cold waves may be linked to broader climate patterns. Shifts in jet streams and changing atmospheric circulation can result in extreme cold spells in regions not always prepared for them. These events highlight the need for improved infrastructure, better energy management, and stronger disaster preparedness strategies to protect vulnerable populations. Resilience in the Face of the Cold Despite the freezing temperatures, stories of resilience continue to emerge. Communities in Hunza and other cold-hit areas are supporting one another, sharing firewood, food, and shelter. Volunteers and local organizations are stepping in to help those most in need, proving once again the strength of communal bonds in times of hardship. Conclusion As severe cold grips Pakistan and Hunza records a staggering ā21Ā°C, the country faces a challenging winter marked by health risks, energy shortages, and economic strain. Yet, amid the icy conditions, resilience and solidarity shine through. This cold wave serves as a reminder of natureās power and the importance of preparedness, cooperation, and compassion in overcoming even the harshest winters.
By Fiazahmedbrohi 5 days ago in Earth
China Cracks Down on Ships Using Starlink
A New Front in Chinaās Technology Control China has intensified its crackdown on ships using Starlink, the satellite internet service operated by Elon Muskās SpaceX, signaling a sharp escalation in Beijingās efforts to control information flows and foreign technology. Authorities have warned commercial vessels, fishing boats, and private operators against using unapproved satellite communication systems, citing national security and data sovereignty concerns.
By Aarif Lashari2 days ago in Earth
Comments
There are no comments for this story
Be the first to respond and start the conversation.