Reciprocity

Molly Mechtenberg, Director of Hope for Creation

Several days ago I had the honor to attend the talk by Robin Wall Kimmerer, author of the highly acclaimed book "Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge and the Teachings of Plants." I read the book several years ago and was moved by her thoughtful, insightful writing about what it means to be in true relationship with the earth. 

At Chenery Auditorium Dr. Kimmerer, who is a botanist and professor of environmental science, spoke of her worldview in which she views the world through two lenses: one of Western science and the other of Indigenous thinking and spirituality. These two lenses give her a more complete picture of the magnificence and vulnerability of our natural world.

Hope for Creation also aims to look through two lenses. We lean into science and data, but we also view the world through a wide range of spiritual perspectives. The natural world offers gifts and beauty that inspire us to ponder meaning and purpose. Science hits us with a powerful reality check – not all is well. In fact, we have done damage that will never be repaired, and only urgent action will allow for life to be sustained on this planet. 

Dr. Kimmerer spoke often of reciprocity -- the two-way relationship between the earth and humans, a mutual giving and taking. We are in a time of environmental and climate crisis because humans have done far too much taking and not enough giving. Despite the bad news, she left us with hope – that we can change, because that is what is required when a relationship is out of balance. 

I celebrate the everyday actions on behalf of Hope for Creation members and congregations that give back. I celebrate the community gardens, the native plants, the efforts to recycle, the commitment to plant-based diets, and the building of rain gardens. I celebrate Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Kalamazoo, which committed last week, unanimously, to install 92 solar panels. 

I also encourage all of us to continue educating ourselves and our congregations on issues of climate and environmental justice. For example, as we deal with the aftermath of moderate flooding in Kalamazoo, consider: who was impacted? What businesses and people need extra support right now? How can I be a voice for sustainability in our community? 

I recently found inspiration from the following words:

"Everything is on fire,

but everyone I love is doing beautiful things

and trying to make life worth living,

and I know I don't have to believe in everything,

but I believe in that."

--Nikita Gill

Let’s keep doing beautiful things on behalf of the planet. Let’s keep changing for the better. And – we are coming into a time when the national debate will be fierce about the direction our country needs to take – let’s start giving back by speaking up.