Loving connection with Earth

 

“Even elements of the environmental movement approach the earth as an object to be preserved, rather than as a spiritual reality to be respected. This misconception may prove to be fateful, for, as Tony Gonnela Frichner of the Onondoga Nation has pointed out, ‘How can you “save the Earth” if you have no spiritual relationship with the Earth? There is an intellectual abstraction about the environment but no visceral participation with the Earth. Non-Indians can’t change the current course of destruction without this connection.’ ”

 

—Joseph Epes Brown, “Teaching Spirits: Understanding Native American Religious Traditions,” (Oxford University Press, New York, 2001).

 

We won’t sacrifice for what we don’t love. Why do so few love the Earth? Because they are not taught that the earth is alive, loving and lovable.