Perhaps you have 5 minutes to wonder how these simple, yet transformative ideas resonate with /challenge where you are right now, all inspired by Laurie Palmer's thoughtful piece on lichen:
Read Laurie Palmer’s “5 Tips on How to Live Like a Lichen” in Orion.
- Bow down: Greet what you are not.
- Wait: If you decide not to take up all available space, you may realize how space and time are ample, shared.
- Open Open up to vulnerability, and feel its relief.
- Refuse [lichens] will not be used or erased by commodification.
- Collectivize Never forget, you are not alone.
I have the pleasure of being in a community that shares lovely pieces of writing like this one. It's called the Animas Valley Council in the Commons. It's a calm place to find inspiring words, allies, and provocations.
Sometimes its the slow and beautiful act of decomposition, or the symphony of sounds when the rain and wind mingle through the forest, or the patient and fearless movement of a salamander across the ground. For me, all of these things provide opportunities to examine how nature does not comply with the oppressive system we humans find ourselves in. Nature is mirroring what I have to learn about myself, my feelings, my growth.
In my current work as a master's student, I am deepening my understanding of the Biophilia Hypothesis, developed by Edward Wilson. Wilson uses the term in a related sense when he suggests that biophilia describes "the connections that human beings subconsciously seek with the rest of life." https://lnkd.in/g2H2jdFQ
Seeking connection with the rest of life; with each other. Maybe your next best friend, is a lovely lichen - resting calmly just outside your door? Maybe you can look into the de/composting leaves, changing color, giving themselves back to earth and admire their steady transition in service of regrowth. maybe you will whisper to them - thank you, thank you beautiful leaf.
If you are curious about your purpose on this beautiful planet, your unique gifts, and how to put them into action... here you go. My wild mind guide training is with Animas. https://lnkd.in/giqRppDD