Most people who are
in tune with the Earth are aware that the planet’s resources are limited, especially as the Earth’s bounty becomes more polluted. They want to sustain their own valuable lives in a way that does not damage and perhaps even aids the Earth. But how can you create a balance between your own needs and the needs of the planet and all of the life on it?
The fact that you may ask yourself that question is actually the first step toward doing it. It means you are thinking about your actions and what you consume.
There is a lot of advice available on how to conserve resources and reduce your “carbon footprint.” Deciding what advice to apply to your life and doing it successfully requires your close attention to your decision-making process. A good way to start is to determine the standard by which you evaluate information and weigh it against what you consider to be your purpose.
When I speak of your purpose, I am speaking in the broadest sense, as in, what is the purpose of your life, and in a narrow sense, as in, what is your purpose in using an item or resource. If you are clear on these, you can be clear about whether or not you really need to buy or use something.
Knowing your purpose is impossible without mindfulness. Inner reflection will reveal it. It will also reveal your moment by moment desires and motivations.
Are you anxious to go shopping because you’re stressed and want the rewarding stimulation of finding something new and shiny just for you that you have to have and love so much? Or are you shopping because your wardrobe needs to be refreshed for your new job or passion? Are you eating that extra piece of cake because you’re bored or lonely? Or are you eating it because there is something in it your body really wants right now? Knowing your motivations and checking whether they are aligned with
your goals will keep your consumption in check while supporting your life.
The biggest support you can give yourself is knowing the reason for your existence and making decisions that further your life purpose. Start by making smaller goals that will add up to your greater purpose over time. Having smaller goals will make your internal yardstick more specific and concrete, helping you measure which resource and how much of it you really need and want.
Because of your
true nature, because you are made of the same kind of energy as the source of life and the Earth itself, because everything is one, your true purpose for living on the Earth at this time will always ultimately be a benefit to all life. Making sure your decisions match that purpose, despite your fears, doubts and desires, will always ensure you are doing what is best for
both you and the planet.