It is 2050 and the Earth is a healing and collaborative place. That was our vision and the goal back in 2024. In 2024, I was already taking small steps toward this. How? I started learning more about climate issues by taking a course with ClimateHealers.org. I then presented this information to my immediate circles, got feedback, then presented to my larger community (ie, libraries, schools, art centers, cafes, etc). This dialogue brought a lot of action toward healing the environment locally and then thinking about how to help globally.
In 2024, my household was already vegan. We tried never to waste extra water or electricity. Our food choices and lifestyle influenced what we wore and how we shopped (no leather, wool; we bought thrift shop clothing rather than buying new; we didn’t use plastic bags or bottles). We raised our adopted son vegan. Our dog was fed a vegan diet. We rescued many homeless animals over the years and helped reduce the domestic animal population through neutering/spaying. We belonged to a growing Vegan Spirituality Group. We educated ourselves by watching many documentaries about animal/plant-based health/environmental issues. We supported each others’ talents in tackling these issues through action. We created plant-based events for the community, such as annual vegan ThanksLivings and annual 4th of July picnics. Also, we created theatrical shows and storytellings highlighting compassion toward animals and respect for the environment (ie, issues about fracking, overfishing the oceans, etc). This community-making brought new folks who learned about a plant-based lifestyle. We planted trees whenever we could. We spoke about plant-based options and kindness for animals to strangers in any situation. Step by step the circles of compassion grew. Now, as an elder I can see the world has become what I imagined it to be: one of peace, where nobody is without food or shelter, where dialogue happens instead of war, where we see animals as our teachers and not creatures to subjugate. Our land is re-wilded and many more species have returned. There is a feeling of harmony between people, animals, and their environment. We actually are in service to the animals and make sure they are able to enjoy life without restrictions. The trees are replenished and serve as filters to absorb any of other past pollutants. The oceans teem with fish-life. Our recipes for plant-based food just get better and better. There is very little disease and plagues have been eradicated. The planet has cooled to an even-ing of temperature. Our children know they are safe to grow and play. No one wins or loses and the games have no end. All people are multi-linguists and their mind-set is one of love and healing. There are no more armies, weapons, or use of money. There is only barter of goods and talents. There is a Ministry for Art and Creativity. We are as free as the birds and we sing and dance often as we enjoy each other and our beautiful planet. AMEN.