Conscience Over Convenience

During 2020 - amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, a massive human rights movement, and natural disaster atrocities mostly attributed to climate change - it has become clear that many, if not most, of our systems are broken. The majority of the world's citizens are flagrantly oppressed, exploited, abused or overlooked when it comes to political, economic, social and environmental agendas. Not only are most of our supposed 'leaders' complacent, but they are actively deceptive in order to benefit off the suffering of the planet and all of its inhabitants; a complete lack of ethics, abuse of power, and sign of obvious corruption. 

Besides total upheaval, a revolution, and complete restructuring, what is there to do? 

Well, there are citizens who fall somewhere in the middle of the extremely polarized conditions (myself included). We may be overlooked and/or abused by the current systems but we still have many advantages and are not exploited nor oppressed. We are able to, and so we should, recognize and accept a responsibility to do our part to regularly make the conscientious choice over the convenient one. 

ECO-MAD. Exert Conscientious Options - Make A Difference. 

There's no reason not to make meaningful decisions and take purposeful actions. In fact, it can be beneficial on social, political, economic and moral levels, as well as for the environment and ourselves. Is there more that can and needs to be done? Absolutely. But until there's a true shift in systemic ideals, it's necessary to emphasize how much our individual choices really matter. 

I recently came across an article written a few years ago that makes many good points on the topic of 'doing more'. The author states:

 "I’m not saying that we should all give up, or that we should stop making the small positive decisions we make every day as responsible humans. And if you’re choosing the greener product for health reasons, by all means, do what feels right. But when it comes to combating climate change, pollution, and habitat destruction, what we need to do is take the money, time, and effort we spend making these ultimately inconsequential choices and put it toward something that really matters. Beyond making big lifestyle decisions such as choosing to live in a dense urban area with public transportation, cutting red meat out of your diet, and having fewer children (or none at all), there are diminishing returns to the energy you put into avoiding plastic or making sure your old AAs end up in the appropriate receptacle. Globally, we’re projected to spend $9.32 billion in 2017 on green cleaning products. If we had directed even a third of that pot of money (the typical markup on green cleaning products) toward lobbying our governments to ban the toxic chemicals we’re so afraid of, we might have made a lot more progress by now."

It goes on to give practical alternatives that would be a more impactful use of our time, energy and money in terms of systemic change. 

First, I would argue that if enough people contributed to making these so-called "inconsequential choices" like avoiding plastic or reducing overall consumption, it would absolutely be significant and make a difference. Second, why shouldn't those of us who are privileged enough to do both, take on that challenge? It is possible for many of us to adapt the lifestyle changes and contribute to the creation of a system which is more fair and works better for everyone. 

We can pick up trash and petition for better enforcement of littering laws. We can buy the local, organic, more ethical option and put pressure on companies to do better. We can make our own products and vote for politicians who will push for higher standards. We can use reusables and volunteer for good causes. We can conserve resources and donate to important organizations. 

If we can, then we should. For ourselves, our global community, our planet, and for those who can't.

Often the better choice for the environment and society is also the healthier one for ourselves and this should be a world where everyone has access to those options. For those of us who are able, it might not be cheap or convenient but it's ethical and conscientious and if we're persistent it will make a real difference. 

Over the next 50 years it very well could be the difference between a livable, just world and a struggling species on a burnt-out Earth. 

**Put It Into Practice**

There are many posts on this blog offering practical changes we can adapt into our lives to be healthier, more aware and more sustainable. I encourage browsing but there are a couple in particular that have a lot of information and links:

1. See the Big Picture; It's the Little Things
2. Focusing In (on plastic)
3. ECO-MAD Traveling
4. Focusing In (on the seas)

On the systemic side of things, we can:

• Contact our representatives
• Stay informed on legislature
• Write to companies/corporations with our comments/concerns
• Do our research and VOTE 
• Run for office
• Volunteer and donate to non-profits/NGO's/other good causes we believe in
• Get friends and family involved
• Hold each other accountable and support each other in pushing for positive change

The Youth and Their Future

Since online learning from home has become the 'new normal', and the spread of misinformation in society seems to be at an all-time high, a spotlight has illuminated the complexity and urgency of education. The idea of passing along knowledge and wisdom in order to prepare youth for the important role of becoming engaged, thoughtful citizens of a global society is essential to the future of humanity. This is one main reason why the teaching profession deserves much reverence and credit (way more than it gets). This scenario should also remind us that every experience a child has is an opportunity for them to learn. As parents, grandparents, aunties/ uncles, godparents, or role models, we have many opportunities to be teachers, mentors, and inspirational leaders for the next generation.

A shift is happening. People across the globe are becoming more conscientious and making changes in their lifestyles which contribute positively to the overall health of the planet and all life on it. They are (especially the younger generations) taking part in this movement because they understand what's at stake - their or their children's/grandchildren's/great-grandchildren's future. Doing what we can individually is a fantastic first step in the right direction. But when children and teenagers worldwide are striking for the climate and demanding more from adults and leaders, it's time we all rise up and charge ahead to meet the challenge.

Now, more than ever, young people need to be prepared for an uncertain future. Anyone paying attention to the current environmental, economic, political and all around social climate should clearly understand we are on the brink of uncertainty. One way to combat the unpredictability of what's to come is to encourage acknowledgement of the past, involvement in current affairs, awareness of the possibilities of the future, and willingness to work together cooperatively. It's essential that the generations inheriting this planet are able to participate in the creation of their future circumstances.

So what can we (older generations) do to help?  We can begin by not underestimating the youth's intellect, their judgement, their understanding, their aptitude, their capacity for comprehension or their ability to perceive. In many ways, young people most likely discern the consequence of our current reality much differently than their elders, which is something we must not only take into account, but emphasize. Their reality in 10 to 50 years will be much different from ours today, and this is why it's significant to listen, learn, share our expertise and cooperate.

We need to address the concerns, ideas, and feelings of today's youth, and respond in a way that allows them to be heard, entices them to be open with their emotions, and inspires them to believe in their intentions. From young children to young adults, we must assist the younger generations in developing tools for diplomatic communication, navigation and assessment of information, cooperation, strategizing, unifying, adapting, taking action, and anything else that can improve their quality of life as a global society. We all have that responsibility and we can all make a difference.

**Put It Into Practice**

There are many resources to help get young minds of any learning level interested in and educated on environmental issues. These are just a few places to begin, as naturally the issues branch out, leading to many other consequential situations that affect all aspects of life as we know it (cultural, social, economic, etc.). They can also be fun summertime activities.

Oxfam education is a website that offers resources for younger ages, like a short climate quiz and many others.

The Environmental Protection Agency's website has a 'Planet Protectors Club' with information and fun activities to help children learn all about environmental issues.

The NOAA website offers a printable activity book as an "introduction to the essential principles of climate science".

NASA's Climate Kids website is a fun and interactive choice for young learners.

Educational charity The Eden Project has a fun website to explore, with a section of interesting science/climate resources for everyone and anyone, and a section with tips/ ways to help fight climate change and biodiversity loss.

WWF has an interactive website section about climate change and one on deforestation. It also provides a carbon footprint calculator questionnaire.

The Alliance for Climate Education website is empowering for older children and teens, with videos and a link to an award-winning video experience called Our Climate, Our Future (you have to sign up for it but an account is probably worth having for other resources).

The Campaign Against Climate Change website has a plethora of information and resources for schools that can really be utilized by anyone. They mention most, if not all, of the resources previously listed here. Taking time to browse this site is highly suggested for all people of all ages!

Here are some ideas on how to involve young people in community organizations.

The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development offers a lot of research and information regarding current issues and wellbeing of young people across the globe with their Youth Inclusion Project.

Stanford Social Innovation Review did a great series of articles a few years back on "Preparing Today's Youth for Tomorrow's World", there is a lot of great insight from all over the world.

Finally, UNICEF's Voices of Youth website is just one more of a plethora you can find with a simple google search or two (search something like "youth involvement in environmental/social issues"). It's informative, inspirational and encourages action from young people. You can browse articles, poems, artwork, and even submit your own. 

2020 Thoughts

Maybe, just maybe, this tragic pandemic plaguing the globe will initiate a metamorphosis that could serve as the transformation humans need in order to live more harmoniously with Earth. As we face impactful realizations of what's truly important and how precious those things are, hopefully we can cultivate deeper forms of vital qualities within ourselves like compassion, humility, gratitude, generosity, forgiveness and understanding. Perhaps, as a society, we can begin to emphasize concepts of simplicity, minimalism, sustainability, inclusiveness, acceptance, cooperation, and unity. The truth is, it doesn't have to be a 'maybe'. As a civilization we can make the conscious choice to evolve into a better version of humanity. We have an opportunity to positively progress out of a seemingly terrible situation.

During this unique time of life-altering change occurring around the world, unease is ubiquitous. Emotions and feelings of confusion, uncertainty, fear, sadness, anger, helplessness, loneliness, disappointment, anxiety, exhaustion, worry, stress, and frustration permeate the energy of the universe in a very palpable way. The global, human population is being affected and the future is dubious. But when we take a moment to reflect, we can remind ourselves that the reality of life on this planet has always been preciously uncertain and ever-changing. Usually, the act of living our lives provides fantastic distraction from those facts. Now, however, the threat of our fragility is literally infectious and spreading right before our eyes. Suddenly, we're forced to cope with this unfamiliar, distressing situation over which we have very little control. How do we begin to navigate this new, chaotic realm of existence?

A practical and poignant place to begin is with awareness, acceptance, mindfulness (being present), gratitude and reframing. As many wise people have said, "we cannot control what happens to us, but we can control how we react to it."

Awareness of the present catalyzes acceptance of our true reality. To be mindful of the present moment is a lifelong practice; an intentional focus that we must remember and choose to return to. Concentration on the in and out of our breath, the sensations within our bodies and of our surroundings - these are the things we can hold on to as we aspire to let the rest go. Worries. Anxieties. Incessant thoughts. We can allow the present to be what it is while releasing concerns of the past and future. As we affirm our current reality, we can create a safe space where we give ourselves permission to experience the catharsis of purging whatever thoughts, feelings and emotions we need to. Always coming back to the breath, our rhythm of life.

Realization of what doesn't serve us, along with the cultivation of what does, lies in mindfulness and gratitude. As human beings possessing consciousness, we're gifted with the ability to be grateful. Being cognizant of what makes us happy or brings us joy, and acknowledging it, is a powerful thing that can lead to so much goodness. Even when we're aware and accepting of a harsh reality we're currently facing, we can choose to focus on gratitude and positivity in order to shift our mindset. We may cry hard, scream loudly, contemplate silently, laugh uncontrollably or react however we need to, but when we're done and we return to our breath, we can reframe our perspective in order to regain motivation during a trying time.

To focus on the good things we have or have to gain, instead of the bad, is again, a powerful choice we can make. If we're scared a family member might get sick or maybe we're worrying about our income, or the safety of healthcare workers, the homeless, and the elderly - we can hold all of that in a positive space in our thoughts, react in our own safe space, remember our breath, and then consciously shift focus to gratitude of our loved ones, modern medicine, selflessness of others, and the securities we do have. If there's more we can do to ease our worries or appease our fears, then we should do them if we believe it will make a true difference. But being present, being aware and accepting of reality, as well as reframing negatives into positivity and gratitude, are some great tools to use to stay healthy and maintain balance mentally during these unprecedented circumstances.

We are a resilient and intelligent species. Not only can we survive this pandemic and whatever the future has in store, but we can utilize all that we have and are in order to redefine what it means to thrive.

Ripple Effects Require Energy

Ripples are waves of energy, essentially. So what type of ripples are you sending out?
Think for a minute about how the ripples you create are affecting and multiplying by the billions of other people all across this one, precious Earth...

Kenai sending out ripples in the Eel River.

The intention and purpose of the ECO-MAD movement is to connect with ourselves on a deep level, hopefully allowing us to discover and develop true contentment through selflessness and then setting examples which cast that contagious conscientiousness into the world. Every single one of us has control over our own thoughts, choices and actions. Each individual has the power to manifest and exemplify positivity, kindness, compassion, love, personal growth and evolution, action and achievement, and amelioration of our lives and the state of all living things on this planet. Every passing day it becomes exceedingly vital that we focus more on what it is we are emanating from within ourselves to the rest of the world.

Initiating proliferation of these meaningful conceptions and intentions unfortunately requires more time, energy and thoughtfulness than most may be willing to give or more than we believe ourselves capable of giving. But as of today, let us make no excuse nor justification for denying this planet, the future generations of our species (our children!) and ourselves of what we know we need to do. Put as simply and generally as possible, we are capable of and imperatively need to Exert Conscientious Options regularly in order to Make A Difference which is urgent and crucial.

The way we should view this idea is that every step in the right direction helps. We may not get everywhere we're going in one quick sprint, but every time we put one foot in front of the other we are closer to our goal. And everyone goes somewhere at some point right? So there's no denying that we're technically all in this together, and there's no reason to walk in opposition because it only does more harm than good for everyone. In other words, no matter what someone believes about ideas of humanity, climate change, social justice, ethics, etc., there's absolutely no reason not to use our personal power as individuals (and our combined power as a species) to try to improve the systems that influence everything and everyone on this planet. A movement of collective action meant to have only positive effects!

**Put It Into Practice**

Yes, this does mean putting in the extra effort and energy to do things like choosing the less-convenient alternative; taking the time to research candidates and policies and then voting; researching before decision-making so we support people/ companies/ industries doing it right; investing extra money into something more ethical or sustainable; washing/ bringing our reusables instead of buying disposables; denying ourselves the coffee if we forget our reusable cup (or at least refusing the plastic lid and going 'topless'); remembering our own bags for produce and groceries so we don't have to use/ dispose of new ones every time (I personally make bags out of old t-shirts); shopping at bulk food stores whenever possible; seeking out whole foods to snack on instead of plastic-wrapped processed things; opting for second-hand clothing (and taking care of the clothes we own) before buying new; spot-washing garments instead of putting it all in the laundry, and keeping in mind that there is always an option which is better for us, others and the environment.

As the ripples undulate they begin with us and move outward, affecting our close family and friends, acquaintances, strangers, community, society, and the global populace. Try it! Make a few changes in your lifestyle and see how others notice, then realize how you feel knowing that you're making a positive difference in the world around you. Then make a few more changes. You don't have to promote it or preach it, simply do it. In my experience, setting an example always leads to other people being curious and initiation of a conversation. Plus, it feels great to be a trend-setter for normalizing things that should be routine already (sure, you may get some 'looks' or have to deal with some patronizing attitudes, but what does that matter when you know that what you're doing is helping?).

Making informed, ethical, sustainable decisions ripples beyond just those who immediately recognize it, as well. And it's no secret that money makes quite the splash - sending out some of the most gigantic, far-reaching waves. So for example, if we choose to buy something sourced, made and/or sold locally, we're most likely contributing to our community (money stays local, supporting local industries/ artists/ shop owners), society (helping strengthen society's sense of community with human interaction, less packaging so less waste) and the global populace (not supporting sweatshops or child labor or other unethical practices on the other side of the world somewhere out of sight and mind). No matter what we decide to spend our money on or where we purchase from, it's significant to understand the power our consumerism has (vote with your dollars) and the importance of researching the different aspects of where/ what/ how/ by whom things are made. We must not take it for granted that many of us have access to this privileged resource called the internet, which if used right, can unveil immense amounts of credible, applicable information useful in our decision-making.

Urgently & Consistently ECO-MAD

ECO-MAD is a mindset. One of being regularly present, aware and prepared. It's a state of mind which reminds us to be conscientious, not just of the interconnectedness of the world, but also the impacts of each of our interactions within it. This attitude is based on the idea that we can each feel more fulfilled and content making choices we know will have a positive impact environmentally, socially and on the overall wellbeing of life on Earth.

Key to achieving this intrinsic and beneficial state of mind is practice and consistency, such as many things in life. No one is an expert immediately. Continuing to Exert Conscientious Options that Make A Difference in every circumstance is one of the most important elements of this evolving movement. It's also imperative that we leave space for error without being hard on ourselves; no one is perfect, just as long as we are trying. We must keep our mind on the ultimate goal and praise ourselves for all the victories (big and small) along the journey. As an added bonus, when we are happily and healthily living an 'ECO-MAD' lifestyle, others are often intrigued and inspired to take part naturally, essentially sending out ripples (maybe even waves) of conscientious awareness.

Since the recent UN report on climate, titled "Summary for policymakers of the global assessment report on biodiversity and ecosystem services of the Intergovernmental Science - Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services" (wordy, but effective), there's more urgency than ever to move in the right direction. We're proving to be an aggressive species, with a massive and growing population and an insatiable appetite for finite natural resources. Not to mention, we're living in an unbelievably delicate balance of life on this fragile yet miraculous planet.

Although there's been a slow shift happening for decades, it needs a change of pace. This is urgent - we need to hurry. And since none of us can singularly change the ways of our leaders/ governments/ industries/ corporations, it's up to all of us to work together with a common goal in order to influence sustainable outcomes and demand certain results. By focussing on our billions of individual choices and actions (ie. where/how/on what we spend our money, who and what we vote for) we can and will make a necessary difference. What we each decide to do now will add up to represent us as a global society and ultimately affect all living things.

Focusing In (on the seas)

None of us need convincing that this beautiful, blue planet's majority surface element - which also happens to make up 65% of our bodies - is magic, right? We all know that water is key to life. We also know that, on the contrary, pollution in its many forms is a prevalent problem for humans and wildlife, devastating environments around the globe. So it seems like a no-brainer that the health of the world's waterways and seas are an urgent matter as they're essential to the health of all life on Earth. Unfortunately, we are collectively (from individuals to industries and everyone in the process) polluting our global waters to the extent that we're doing significant damage.

Effortlessly floating in the waters of the Mediterranean Sea off the coast of Gozo, Malta.

Luckily, there's plenty that all of us can do to immediately lessen our aqua impact and help combat current, water-related issues if we just take some time to focus in. Many of the choices we make on a daily basis, some obvious and some not, affect the H2O all around us. From the fertilizer we put on our garden, to our dinner decision, to the leaders we vote for - the actions we take matter, for better or worse.

One may think, "isn't there a governmental body or an organization that oversees the seas?'. The short answer is yes, but that means at least two things for all of us individuals. 1) We must get involved and vote in order to make a difference in how these bodies of power are run, whose running them, how transparent they are, and how well they're working to protect sea life and human's rights to access clean water. 2) There's always more to be done. On a personal level, many of us are provided the privilege of knowledge and choice, which is powerful and can be extremely useful. We can take action ourselves and we can educate others; leading by example to help spread an ECO-MAD movement of ocean-friendly, sustainable, considerate, conscious decision-making.

**Put It Into Practice**

Things we can (and should) all do to help preserve waterways and seas:

• Conserve water - conserve, conserve, conserve!
• Reduce your waste - stop trash at the source, consume less, be mindful of what you purchase and how it's packaged. Here's some food for thought on overconsumption.
• Don't purchase anything that directly imposes upon marine wildlife.
• Stop sucking - refuse plastic straws, use paper if needed, and/or get a reusable one! 
• Ditch other single-use plastics - replace with reusable options.
• Beach cleanups- collect trash before it gets to the water, or while in the water if need be.
• Be aware of chemicals - use as little as possible (fertilizers, detergents, cleaners, etc.).
• Use reef-safe sunscreen.
• Know about the seafood you eat - some can be better for the environment than others and limiting your intake may even be better for you! 
• Be extra conscientious when on a boat - of wild animals, littering, cleaning products, maintenance, etc.
• Don't go on cruises. Period.
• Research which corporations/companies are the worst water polluters and avoid them and/or write to them about your concerns.
• Vote - use this political tool to ensure those in power are aligned with your environmental beliefs, or run for office yourself! 
• Educate - Always take time to do your own research and then lead by example and share knowledge with others. Maybe even consider hosting/organizing a workshop in your community or a documentary screening.

Globally Interrelated

We are all connected to each other, simply through the nature of life. Each and every one of us needs the same basic elements to survive, and we all depend on our environment - planet earth - to provide us these necessities.

The Dalai Lama explains that "interdependence is a fundamental law of nature", in his book, My Spiritual Journey. "It concerns more than just the more evolved forms of life, for even the smallest insects are social beings who, without the slightest religion, law, or education, survive thanks to mutual cooperation, based on an innate recognition of their interrelatedness."

If we truly hope to move our current civilization forward in a positive way, capable of overcoming the serious threats of our time, we must recognize our potential as individuals within a collective global society that is interrelated. We all need to cultivate an awareness of how our individual impacts ripple through the connectedness of humanity as a whole, creating our current and future reality.

Author John Perkins, in his book The Secret History of the American Empire, emphasizes how individuals can make a big impact and crucial difference within this realm of interdependence. He says "it is imperative that we develop an awareness that every action we take and every product we buy impacts other people and the places where they live; collectively, our lifestyles today determine the future our children and grandchildren will inherit."

Our inspiration for finding this awareness in ourselves and nurturing it, should be an intrinsically fulfilling, altruistic motivation to do what is fair and right for humanity and for all life forms with which we cohabitate on Earth. It may be difficult to tap into this concept at first for many reasons, including the fact that we're all experiencing life differently, along with all the distractions that accompany our personal, day to day lives. Once we acknowledge and accept our interrelatedness, our responsibilities as citizens of a united and connected world become clearer, making it easier and more effortless to choose and act in accordance with what benefits the global community and the future - not solely the individual and the now.

As the Dalai Lama states in his book, "universal responsibility is the best possible basis to ensure our personal happiness and world peace. It implies that everyone be given equal access to natural resources, by protecting the environment for future generations." He explains that "the human community has reached a critical point in its history. The world today forces us to accept that humanity is one. In the past, the various communities could allow themselves to think that they were separate. But today...what happens in one country affects many other countries. The world is becoming more and more interdependent." Closing the point he says, "without understanding and promoting the sense of our universal responsibility, our future itself is threatened." Explaining further that "many problems in the world arise because we have lost sight of the basic humanity that unites all members of the human family. We tend to forget that despite the diversity of race, religion, culture, language, and ideology, we all have an equal and fundamental right to peace and happiness."

Together we can do this. We can take individual strides to create a better future for everyone. And in doing so, we can shift the status quo, we can cause a mindset change toward simple, sustainable and satisfying lifestyles. Remember, ECO-MAD: Exert Conscientious Options - Make A Difference!

**Put It Into Practice**

There are nearly 7.5 billion of us on this planet. Think about that power in numbers. All it takes is cooperation. Even baby steps help if they're in the right direction. If we all use a single-use plastic cup, straw or bag even once in our life then that's 7.5 billion pieces of waste across the globe breaking down over thousands of years and causing environmental plight as it does so. But, if all 7.5 billion of us said no to the single-use option even just once, there would be 7.5 billion less pieces of trash existing across the globe! Imagine how much waste could be reduced from the consumption cycle and removed from our environment if even half the population of the world took steps to switch to a more sustainable lifestyle. Billions and billions of pieces of unnecessary waste not being created, not polluting the planet, not endangering our future - that's a win for all of humanity.