Iris and I had the pleasure of meeting with Tribal Council this past Tuesday to present a brief overview of the material contained in my book, "Trees of Life - Our Forests in Peril". One of the members pointed out that they understand the concerns and continue to emphasize to their youth the importance of observing and understanding our connection to nature and our surroundings. My immediate thought was that there are probably many others that have wondered why we have placed so much emphasis on reaching out to a people that have understood the complexity of nature for thousands of years. First of all, I have believed, for many years, the solutions we seek are not to be found in new and better science. It is people values that are preventing the proper application of scientific principles. The solutions for the future, I believe, can be found in the wisdom and understanding developed by our indigenous people. Linking this wisdom to today's scientific knowledge can provide a more desirable future. Second, after learning of the Seven Fire Prophecies of the Anishinaabe Nation, I feel a connection to these people that is overwhelming! Finally, I know the task we have taken on is extremely difficult, and we will need all the help we can get. Somehow we must form a coalition with enough voices to be heard if we are to make a difference. We are just starting and it seems the best path is to reach out to individuals and groups that understand, and enlist their help in changing the demands dominate society is placing on earth. What we do to earth we do to ourselves. The Seventh Prophecy tells each of us that we have the responsibility to choose between the path of spiritual balance and the path of materialism. If we expect earth to sustain life, then the choice we make is critical!
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