perhaps the last of the dalai lama installments for awhile...
"We are also being drawn together by the grave problems we face: overpopulation, dwindling natural resources, and an environmental crisis that threatens our air, water, and trees, along with the vast number of beautiful life forms that are the very foundation of existence on this small planet we share. I believe that to meet the challenge of our times, human beings will have to develop a greater sense of universal responsibility. Each of us must learn to work not just for his or her own self, family or nation, but for the benefit of all mankind. Universal responsibility is the real key to human survival. It is the best foundation for world peace, the equitable use of natural resources and, through concern for future generations, the proper care of the environment...
... in general I feel optimistic about the future. The rapid changes in our attitude toward the earth are also a source of hope. As recently as a decade ago, we thoughtlessly devoured the resources of the world, as if there were no end to them. We failed to realize that unchecked consumerism was disastrous for both the environment and social welfare. Now, individuals and governments are seeking a new ecological and economic order.
I often joke that the moon and the stars look beautiful, but if any of us tried to live on them we would be miserable. This blue planet of ours is a delightful habitat. Its life is our life; its future our future. Indeed the earth acts like a mother to all. Like children, we are dependent. In the face of such global problems as the greenhouse effect and depletion of the ozone layer, individual organizations and single nations are helpless. Unless we all work together, no solution can be found. Our mother earth is teaching us a lesson in universal responsibility.
...because of the lessons we have begun to learn, the next century will be friendlier, more harmonious and less harmful. Compassion, the seeds of peace, will be able to flourish. I am very hopeful. At the same time I believe that every individual has a responsibility to help guide our global family in the right direction. Good wishes alone are not enough; we have to assume responsibility. Large human movements spring from individual human initiatives." - HHDL
i think i've referenced here before: a friend of mine says that some people have 'the fire' [to work for betterment, etc.] and some people don't. i am conscious that i have the fire, and nowadays, i attempt to cultivate it. but sometimes, i slip. and when i do, it is so meaningful to me to know that there are others like me, in my city and in others across the nation and the world, striving for goodness. i drove to work today truly feeling a part of something greater. for you who so recently provided me that synergistic boost, as you have before, thank you again. may you know how much it means. i look forward to doing likewise for you and for others, when needed.
cleanse commercial of the day: someone couldn't figure out why i looked so different today and asked why i was glowing. the cleanse has totally revamped my diet. simply put: good, whole, healthy food. i saved them the speech, but knew the cause. (very) personally, i believe that my diet was not in harmony with the practices and the purifications i undertake. ive become more and more sensitive to what i put in my body & it finally began manifesting in unavoidable external ways so it was time for a change. one more step on my integrative journey, i guess. and kate is right, just when it becomes effortless - habit-forming in my case - it nears its end. here's to the 8 days i have remaining!
in unity and peace,
c.
