The fossil fuel crisis is bringing changes to our world that are already deadly for many millions. The temperature – both actual and metaphorical – will only climb from this date onward. We can choose to engage and skillfully mitigate these challenges by committing ourselves to increasing our compassion for all life, and by acting on that compassion.

Technology is a tool. Intention and mindfulness determines how it is used.

In my home town of Seattle, I live on a street with nice houses and lots of trees. When I turn on the kitchen faucet, relatively clean water flows from the tap. I go to the food co-op and there are beautiful organic vegetables, fruits, grains, and such. I do not need to huddle in the rubble of a bombed out building when I hear planes overhead. I do not need to get in a leaky boat and cross an ocean, maybe never to arrive at the far shore. I do not need to wonder where I will live when the ocean floods my village, my entire nation.

The earth is us. We are the earth. Her ocean flows through our veins, her solidity strengthening our bones. The pumping of our heart draws strength from the molten core of the planet. Sunlight shimmering through the trees is our own nervous system. And we feel her pain. We know she is suffering, somewhere in the deep recesses of consciousness.

Stand tall and brave

Beside deep water

Surf this planetary wave

Of a world getting hotter.