LEYM Earthcare Committee
Earthcare Introduction
Friends have recognized the sacredness of God's creation from the beginning. The difference between their position and ours today is the realization that because of human mindlessness, we are close to losing the diversity and balance of life of this planet through which we are given the very breath of life. Creation will go on, but our earth family as we know it will be catastrophically altered if this should happen. To most Friends, to allow that to happen would be an unspeakable transgression against the One who is manifested in such beauty and complexity as this great blessed community represents.
The difficulty arises from the enormity and complexity of the task. It seems so overwhelming, one doesn't know where to start. The forces of greed and power are formidable. We in the Earthcare Committee are dealing with this anxiety also. Some of us have been studying and working on this task for many, many years; some of us are just beginning to learn the language and the concepts of this sacred journey.
Two things become apparent quickly: the problem stems from attempts to commodify large parts of creation, thus reducing the sacred "us" to a collection of objects to be used for profit. And the best chance of success we have is to trust that the Inner Light will reveal to us where we must throw "the stubborn ounces of our weight".
It is our prayer and hope that LEYM will hold this work in the Light, and discern whether we in the monthly meetings of LEYM are being led, individually or corporately, to become part of this journey. To that end, the Earthcare Committee has assembled this small booklet representing the Leadings we are trying to follow concerning key areas of hope and direction. We hope it will save you some time!
The message from Hopi Elders which follows has spoken to many of us who have heard it: "The time is Now...We are the ones we've been waiting for." - Judy Greenberg, editor
Message from Hopi Elders
"There is a river flowing now very fast. It is so great and swift that there are those who will be afraid. They will try to hold on to the shore. They will feel they are being torn apart and will suffer greatly. Know the river has its destination. We must let go of the shore, push off into the middle of the river, keep our eyes open, and our heads above the water. And I say, see who is in there with you and celebrate."
"At this time in history, we are to take nothing personal, least of all ourselves. For the moment that we do, our spiritual growth and journey comes to a halt. The time of the lone wolf is over. Gather yourselves!"
"Banish the word 'struggle' from your attitude and your vocabulary. All that we do now must be done in a sacred manner and in celebration."
"THE TIME IS NOW."
"WE ARE THE ONES WE’VE BEEN WAITING FOR."
Hopi Nation, Oraibi Arizona, September, 2001
Continue on to Earthcare Words and Concepts page.