The planet is hurting. We are hurting. The concept of 'interbeing' is crucial here. It's not just a philosophical idea; it's a truth we must embrace. There is no 'you' without 'me,' and vice versa. There's no 'them' without 'us,' and vice versa. This understanding is the key to our collective healing and the healing of our planet.

Are we too busy to care? And what are we busy with? Are we busy with self-ing because we believe the self is above everything around us?

The picture of the oxygen masks on an airplane comes to mind. If an accident happens on board an aircraft and those masks pop out, we learn to put one on ourselves first so we can then help others around us. Instead, we are trying to cram as many masks as possible over our faces.

We hold the power to make a significant impact. We can choose to consume locally grown foods, reducing CO2 emissions significantly. We can choose a diet that minimizes methane emissions. And if we can't afford to eat healthy, sustainable, and locally grown food - like many Hawaiian residents - we can choose to speak up, form coalitions, support those already working on these issues, and get involved in local politics. We can choose to raise awareness among our friends and family about the severity of the issue.

Our choices matter, and they can make a difference. However, scrolling on "social" media platforms for hours on end does not make a difference. Let's be clear: liking and sharing posts alone doesn't do it. Go within, get clarity, then go out and be loud. We need the yin and the yang.

Even though we can't change everything, everywhere, all at once, we can co-create fairness through awareness by thinking things through.

The Choice of Saving the Planet
Live Composition on 5-string Electric Violin, Voice, and Percussion
46:55 Minutes
Recorded at Bodhi Tree Dharma, Honolulu, Hawaiʻi, 2024
℗ & © 2024 Markus Mars