How many of us read the latest scientific polls about the effects of global climate changes on plants and animals, yet feel somewhat removed from the information because of the fear or guilt that is infused with the message? So many of us care about the environment, our fellow animals and plants that inhabit this beautiful planet with us, and yet do not know what can be done in order to make a difference with the changes that are happening. We may focus on recycling, driving less, eating locally, and then close ourselves off to the continual environmental news because it can feel like there is no point to being sad about something that we cannot do anything further about. This blog is intended as a beginning exploration of how connecting our hearts with the non-human world can lead to a desire and passion for creating new solutions to the crisis that our planet faces. This type of opening has sparked great empowerment for creating change in my own heart, and it is my deep hope that it will in yours as well. Through sharing stories of connections and how these experiences affect both us and in turn other beings through our actions, we can inspire each other to continue this important work. A very small example of this process happened yesterday when I took one of the children with autism that I work with to see the new Disney movie "Earth". We both experienced such a connection to the animals that the narrator introduced viewers to and such compassion when these animals went through challenges because of the changes that global warming has brought about. I was struck by how different seeing baby polar bears facing the reality of the ice melting earlier and earlier each year was than hearing the statistics on how many polar bears are now dying because of ice cap melt. This experience inspired me to begin this blog and do further projects with the child I work with for supporting a species of animal that she feels very connected with. The movie "Earth" provided both her and I an opportunity to open our hearts to our non-human neighbors and experience such a sense of awe at the amazing life on this planet. These opportunities can provide a welcome relief from the pin pointed focus of human life that many of us have on a daily basis. It can give our hearts a sense of joy and expansion. With this beautiful connection, our hearts may also open in despair over the preciousness of baby animals or forests that we feel connected to dying or going extinct because of global changes. This despair can awaken us from our sole focus on humans and our own realities to the needs of other beings as well, moving us into a space of transcendence of our individual lives to a larger cause. I have dealt with fear in my own heart of opening to this pain and the unknown of what it will bring; however, I have found that through being present with the waves of despair that I experience, I come into a place of purpose and compassion that moves me beyond anything else. While I gain purpose and compassion, the planet gains my fiery passion to do all that I can for its behalf. I welcome you to deepening your experiences with our non-human neighbors, developing relationships with them, and finding ways to give back. In doing so, you may also find a beautiful sense of passion and purpose. May we all continue to inspire each other through these posts... Namaste, Madrone

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