Season of Creation Daily Day 9: Seeking compassionate simplicity

sunrise from a window

Photo used with permission | P. McLoughlin

by Peter McLoughlin

View Author Profile

Join the Conversation

Send your thoughts to Letters to the Editor. Learn more

Take a moment to reflect on the photo.


Play a game:  Take three mental snapshots of your life over the past month. 
 
First, in terms of energy use, look at your past month and identify one thing you can do differently in the future to reduce your use of energy.
Second, think of your transportation over the past month.  What is one way you might reduce the carbon footprint of getting around?
Third, consider your diet, compared with last month, can you find opportunities to "buy local," avoid excess packaging, and eat less meat?


Some excerpts: “We represent the world’s family of spiritualities, faiths and religions who share a profound gratitude for our precious planet..." Our misuse of Earth's generosity, while improving conditions for many, is not improving them for all and is fraying the web of life... As religious and spiritual leaders … we come to you with an invitation to embark on a journey towards compassionate simplicity for the sake of the climate, the human family, and the community of life. Our spiritualities and traditions offer wisdom about finding happiness in a purposeful life, family and friendships, not in an overabundance of things. The world needs such wisdom. We invite you to join the many others willing to walk this path..."
— Walk on Earth Gently at LivingtheChange.net

LivingtheChange.net focuses on the three biggest opportunities each person has:

  • Energy use
  • Transport
  • Diet

Consider what commitment you might make. Visit LivingtheChange.net for more information.


 


Season of Creation Daily
pause | reflect | act
Editor's note: Season of Creation Daily is inspired by the Care for Our Common Home Ministry, Paulist Center Boston. To receive daily reflections by email, sign up here.   

This story appears in the Season of Creation Daily feature series. View the full series.

In This Series

Advertisement

1x per dayDaily Newsletters
1x per weekWeekly Newsletters
1x per quarterQuarterly Newsletters