Franciscan Friars of the Atonement’s Post

🌿 Join us on a journey of reflection and connection with Ecological Belonging! 🌍 Here we offer three thought-provoking prompts to explore your relationship with rituals, family, community, and the natural world. 🌱 Reflect on your past, present, and the evolution of your rituals, and join the conversation as we weave a tapestry of interconnectedness. 💫 Let's embark on this journey together! #EcologicalBelonging 🌟

Wangari Maathai's quote beautifully underscores the profound connection between trees and spirituality. It reflects a perspective that goes beyond the physical benefits of trees, recognizing their deeper significance in cultural, emotional, and spiritual contexts.🌳🌿 It invites us to consider how our actions, such as tree planting, can contribute not only to ecological sustainability but also to our spiritual well-being and sense of connection with the world around us. Learn more and start planting trees using this link: https://lnkd.in/gNtWMzbA #SpiritualConnection #TreePlanting #EnvironmentalStewardship #Sustainability 

Wangari Maathai's quote beautifully underscores the profound connection between trees and spirituality. It reflects a perspective that goes beyond the physical benefits of trees, recognizing their deeper significance in cultural, emotional, and spiritual contexts.🌳🌿 It invites us to consider how our actions, such as tree planting, can contribute not only to ecological sustainability but also to our spiritual well-being and sense of connection with the world around us. Learn more and start planting trees using this link: https://lnkd.in/gNtWMzbA #SpiritualConnection #TreePlanting #EnvironmentalStewardship #Sustainability 

In "Braiding Sweetgrass," Robin Wall Kimmerer delves into indigenous perspectives on governance and democracy, reflecting on the wisdom of traditional ecological knowledge and the need for liberation. "In indigenous ways of knowing, we understand a thing only when we understand it with all four aspects of our being: mind, body, emotion, and spirit. We need to feel the warmth of the sun on our skin, taste the sweetness of the raspberries, listen to the raven’s call. These things are not extras, add-ons; they are part of the understanding." The "original instructions" refer to the foundational teachings and principles that indigenous cultures have passed down through generations. These instructions guide humans on how to live in harmony with the Earth and all its beings. While specific teachings may vary among indigenous cultures, the core principles often include: 1. *Reciprocity* : Indigenous teachings emphasize the importance of reciprocity, recognizing that humans are interconnected with the natural world and must give back in return for what they receive. This includes practices such as sustainable harvesting, caretaking of the land, and sharing resources with others. 2. *Respect for All Beings* : Indigenous cultures often teach respect for all living beings, recognizing the inherent value and rights of plants, animals, and ecosystems. This respect extends to all aspects of life and is reflected in traditional ceremonies, rituals, and daily practices. 3. *Interconnectedness* : Indigenous teachings emphasize the interconnectedness of all things, understanding that actions taken in one part of the web of life can have far-reaching consequences elsewhere. This interconnected worldview informs indigenous approaches to decision-making, resource management, and community relationships. 4. *Sustainability* : Indigenous cultures often prioritize sustainability, recognizing the importance of preserving natural resources for future generations. This involves practices such as regenerative agriculture, habitat conservation, and honoring traditional ecological knowledge. 5. *Cultural Continuity* : The original instructions also emphasize the importance of cultural continuity and passing down traditional knowledge from one generation to the next. This includes preserving languages, ceremonies, stories, and practices that have been handed down for centuries.

In a recent encounter , we observed an extraordinary interaction between house sparrows and ground squirrels that exemplifies nature's hidden harmonies. house sparrows, with their keen eyes and quick movements, scour the ground for seeds and insects. Meanwhile, ground squirrels, ever industrious, burrow beneath the surface in search of underground sustenance. When these squirrels dig and disturb the soil, they inadvertently make it easier for the sparrows to access their food. In a reciprocal twist, the sparrows’ foraging uncovers even more food for the squirrels. This remarkable dance of mutual benefit reveals an unexpected partnership, a true testament to nature's collaborative spirit. Our observations highlight the intricate and often surprising ways different species intertwine, providing rich insights for anyone fascinated by ecological relationships and natural symbiosis.

One of our workshop topics is "Earth Stories: Your Place on the Planet." We dive into the unique stories of various places, helping us understand our connection to the world 🌏

This semester’s project reminded me to revisit this lovely Ted Talk by Louise Firth. Questions such as how we balance the expanse of technology/society with preserving our environment come to mind. I highly recommend a listen or a watch. Keywords: Anthropocene, architecture, biodiversity, eco-engineering, habitat enhancement units.

𝐄𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐡 𝐒𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬: 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐞𝐭 🌏 Every corner of our world, from the sprawling deserts to the towering forests, from the bustling cities to the tranquil countryside, is teeming with stories waiting to be discovered and shared. "Earth Stories" invites you to explore the profound narratives that each location holds, uncovering the unique identity and essence of places across the globe. As we navigate through these stories, we not only deepen our understanding of the diverse tapestry of life on our planet but also discover our personal connections to the world around us. This exploration is an invitation to reflect on your own place within this vast, interconnected ecosystem. 🌱How do we fit into the larger narrative of the Earth? ❤️How can understanding the stories of different places enhance our sense of belonging and responsibility towards the planet? Embark on this journey with us and discover how to weave your own story into the fabric of the Earth. 🗺️ #EarthStories #PlaceMatters #GlobalNarratives #DiscoverYourPlace #PlanetaryConnection #WorldExploration #EnvironmentalAwareness #CulturalHeritage #NaturalWonders #OurPlanetOurHome

Wangari Maathai's quote beautifully underscores the profound connection between trees and spirituality. It reflects a perspective that goes beyond the physical benefits of trees, recognizing their deeper significance in cultural, emotional, and spiritual contexts.🌳🌿 It invites us to consider how our actions, such as tree planting, can contribute not only to ecological sustainability but also to our spiritual well-being and sense of connection with the world around us. Learn more and start planting trees using this link: https://lnkd.in/geFqqJEv #SpiritualConnection #TreePlanting #EnvironmentalStewardship #Sustainability 

#Didyouknow that #PACTBelize was established in 1996 in response to a call from environmentalists for an innovative source of funding for #conservation efforts? Today, we’re still going strong, working to sustainably enhance #Belize’s socio-ecological systems through strategic financing 💰 and partnerships 🤝. We’re committed to investing in Belize’s natural treasures while protecting our #history, #culture and living #heritage. 🌎 💡Learn more about PACT at https://lnkd.in/eSsdGvKH