The Earth Is On Life Support

These days,

being with the Earth

is like being at the bedside

of a beloved grandmother

who is critically ill.

We love her so much.

We hate to see her in pain.

We can't bear the thought of losing her.

We desperately want to help,

yet what we're able to do feels completely inadequate.

It's almost too much to bear.

It's no wonder that sometimes

we have to turn away.

Turn away if you must.

Take breaks when you need to.

Find the strength to keep going

and then return to her side.

Let her know you're there.

Tell her how much you love her.

Hold her hand.

Tell her stories.

Sing her songs.

Do what you can to ease her suffering,

to bring her joy,

and help her get the best care available—

even if all this will never seem like enough.

Even if she doesn't visibly respond,

she can hear you.

She can feel your love.

Now, more than ever,

the Earth needs you.

2025 is off to an intense start, and I feel these times invite us to ask ourselves: how are we showing up for the Earth, for ourselves, and for each other?

I chose to share this poem by Kai Siedenburg today, in light of the devastating California fires. For me, it speaks to the heartbreak and helplessness I feel as I witness the suffering of both the Earth and our communities. This week, I’ve been reminded that the Earth is not separate from us—we are deeply intertwined, and what happens to her happens to us as well.