Ramblings

This week I start something thats been on my 'to do list' for a long time--I start a Organic Master Gardeners course. And I`m glad I waited, because this is the first master course I`ve seen that focusses on the organic part--and the philosophy behind it lines up with things I believe. For instance, the concept of the ``earth as a biosphere that functions as a single organism with mechanisms of self-regulation of climate and various cycles`` or ``as one continuous enormous ecosystem composed of many component ecosystems. and that our species exists as part of -and because of-a great interdependancy and perhaps even collaboration between species. This does not exclude the notion that humans may have `superior intelligence`, or ``domain over the earth``, but it puts a different spin on it; our superior rights would then come attached to superior responsibilities. In nature relationships are not akin to pyramidal power structures, but interlinked and synergistic, where each individual, as well as the local and global environments, affect each other. In corporate terms we might describe it as a cooperative, or a partnership, but with life or death consequences. From this perspective destroying the very structure upon which everyones survival depends is simply insane.`` Also mentioned in the first pages was the concept of how our own bodies are like a small ecosystem--and I know I`m seeing the effects of my own ``ecosystem`` being out of balance--gut issues, aches and pains, etc. I see it everyday at work, as patients come in with myriad complaints or comments of how something ``isn`t right``. And some of what i`ve been learning, is how much we`ve got to learn how to listen to our own ecosystem--our bodies; the doc says you`re fine, but you know somethings not right. Maybe theres an imbalance in your system, maybe somethings out of kilter; doesnt show up on tests, you must be ok. But 10 years down the road, all of a sudden you have major issues that possibly could`ve been prevented if we`d only known! Or perhaps, known how to listen and interpret But that would require slowing down, meditation perhaps, taking time, etc....all the things we know we need but dont do. And this shows also in our treatment of our world--pollution, degradation of land, species driven to extinction and the poisoning of ourselves slowly--all for ``progress`` and the èconomy`. Do it big, better and fast. Whats cool is there is starting to be people, organizations, communities that are starting to buck the trend--kind of a grassroots movement, making changes, educating ourselves and each other. I know each of us in kungfu is in this group--in our own ways and in our own gifts, be it personal health, food, exercise, mental or the earth itself. Our training (and injuries)kind of force this growth, as well as our proximity to each other and the conversations we have. Last nights speaker at our demo, was sharing how her work with dolphins and learning to communicate with them has moved her to join in conservation efforts for our oceans and these awesome creatures; and also to educating as many people as possible by moving them to care. And thats really what it comes down to, isnt it? We protect what we care about. So what am I rambling around to? I care about our earth--I want to be part of her healing, the protection of our species, and the waters we depend on. I want to start to explore how we are all interconnected and how that works. I want to help! I dont know where this course will take me, but its resonating with my heart and beliefs so I can trust it will be a stepping stone to more.I did quote once that 'Leadership is taking a step out and being willing to look like a fool FOR WHAT YOU BELIEVE IN.' To fall flat on your face,to be embarrassed even.' This is something I believe in. I wonder where it will take me.