mindful earthkeeping during a pandemic

Back in 2019, I had a strong feeling that 2020 would be a year of Earth Renaissance, so much so that I made it my personal and business theme for this year. I had no idea that there would be a global pandemic that would trigger a sudden stop in much of human activity around the world that would basically start the renaissance of the earth and society.

It’s astounding when you consider the idea that humanity has chosen to concern itself with the elderly and the vulnerable above economic activity. In the United States that goes against decades of overemphasis on economic health above societal or individual health. To me, this is the beautiful surprise hidden in the tragedy. Love connects us all more than many of us believed was possible.

Many of you have probably noticed that while the pandemic is tragic for many people, it is good for the earth in so many ways. The air is cleaner, water is clearer, wildlife is more protected. If you’re like me, you want the positive changes to continue and the human suffering to end.

While we’re going through this time, I want to suggest pondering a few questions:

  1. Have you incorporated new or old practices to stay mindful that would be good to continue going forward?
  2. How are you doing with being a mindful earthkeeper during this time?
  3. How has the pandemic expanded your concept of what it means to be a mindful earthkeeper?

I would love to hear how you are coping with this time. Let me share my answers to those questions.

I am leading a meditation group Monday through Saturday, which you are welcome to attend. If you sign up to my newsletter, you will get an invitation to join us. Fortunately, I live in a home with organic garden plots that I created a few years ago, so I can plant seeds and get outside when the weather is nice. I participate in special calls from some of my favorite spiritual teachers and sustainability leaders.

The pandemic has given me hope that humanity can transform drastically in a short time. I am also concerned by what I see the US federal government doing around loosening environmental regulations. I see my role during this time as a holding a vibration and presence of love and peace, and staying awake to what is happening, both positive and negative. I see love as the real drive of change in this pandemic, and I want to do what I can to be more loving.

When this pandemic is over, I intend to maintain a slower pace of life because that is good for the planet and myself. If possible, I will work on a resiliency project with my city and a renowned university. The project was in the early stages of taking shape before the pandemic, and I believe it is more important than ever.

Let’s stay loving and peaceful during this challenging time and remember the power of love in healing ourselves and the earth.

Published by Karen Powers Wan

Writer, Restorative Lifestyle Coach, Sustainability Project Manager, and Meditation Instructor.

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