Sacramento Pachamama Alliance

 Jon Ellison

So, my friends, one of the messages the symposium was designed to convey is that we need to “change the dream” of the industrialized societies of the world from that of unbridled consumption to sustainability. Some of us do not like the term “resources”, as in “natural resources” as it implies the wonders of our planet are here for human beings to use up.

It is just common sense, once the scientific facts of recent history are understood, that we strive toward sustainability to preserve our planet for as many future generations of human beings and other living things as long as possible.  Humans need to move from a “me” mindset” to one of “we”, much like many of the indigenous peoples of the world who have lived more in harmony with Mother earth than those of us who have many “modern conveniences.”

In so doing, there will be more social justice globally and spiritual fulfillment resulting from that and living more sustainable lives.  For me, I need to remind myself frequently (if not daily) of what is important as I live my life.  Toward that end, I read the verse of the poem I had the privilege of reading during the symposium every 2-3 weeks.  I have attached it for you.

There are several group endeavors that resulted from the symposium in which you participated.  The group that will cause no plastic bags to be used in Sacramento area grocery stores has been in communication, as has the group concerned with locally produced foodstuffs. [list other efforts when reported]  Participants have indicated they want to be trained to present future symposiums, and there is conversation about having such a training in Sacramento once at least 20 trainees have committed.

Those of us that planned the symposium you attended are committed to keeping the state of “blessed unrest” alive in all of us and extending it to those around us.  Toward that end, the passion groups are encouraged to remain in communication and report the steps taken toward making a difference to the “Symposium Continuation Committee”*, who in turn will share those happening with the entire group.